Da Bush Babees

Formation and Roots: Da Bush Babees were a hip-hop group formed in the early 1990s, consisting of members Lee Majors (later known as Mr. Man), Y-Tee (later known as Light), and Babe-B-Face Kaos (later known as K.A.O.S). The group originally hailed from Jamaica, Long Island, New York. Their music is characterized by a fusion of Afrocentric lyrics, reggae influences, and jazz-infused beats, setting them apart from the mainstream hip-hop of their era.

Debut Album: In 1994, Da Bush Babees released their debut album titled "Ambushed". The album received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and socially conscious lyrics. Tracks like "Remember We" and "Swing It" showcased the group's lyrical prowess and unique style, earning them a dedicated following within the underground hip-hop scene. "Ambushed" is regarded as a classic of 1990s hip-hop and helped solidify Da Bush Babees' place in the genre.

Collaborations and Influence: Da Bush Babees collaborated with various artists during their career, including members of the Native Tongues collective such as A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul. They also worked with producers like Salaam Remi and Ali Shaheed Muhammad. Their collaborations helped bridge the gap between the jazz-influenced sound of the Native Tongues and the emerging styles of the mid-1990s, contributing to the evolution of hip-hop during that era.

Sophomore Effort and Continued Impact: Following the success of "Ambushed", Da Bush Babees released their sophomore album, "Gravity", in 1996. Although not as commercially successful as their debut, "Gravity" further showcased the group's versatility and growth as artists. Tracks like "The Love Song" and "Melting Plastic" demonstrated their ability to tackle diverse subject matter while maintaining their signature sound. Despite disbanding in the late 1990s, Da Bush Babees' influence can still be heard in the work of contemporary hip-hop artists who continue to explore eclectic sounds and socially conscious themes.

Legacy and Reunion: While Da Bush Babees disbanded in the late 1990s, their impact on hip-hop endures. Their pioneering blend of Afrocentricity, reggae, and jazz-infused beats helped pave the way for future artists to explore diverse musical influences within the genre. The group's albums, particularly "Ambushed", remain revered among hip-hop enthusiasts and continue to inspire new generations of artists. Though they haven't reunited as a group, the individual members have pursued various solo endeavors, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of hip-hop music.