Ill Al Skratch

Ill Al Skratch was an American hip-hop duo consisting of rappers Big Ill (born Ron Wilson) and Al Skratch (born Alfonzo Hunter). Active during the 1990s, they gained popularity for their energetic delivery, catchy hooks, and streetwise lyrics. Here are five key facts about Ill Al Skratch:

1. Formation and Early Career: Ill Al Skratch formed in Brooklyn, New York, in the early 1990s. Both Big Ill and Al Skratch were longtime friends who shared a passion for hip-hop music and culture. They began recording music together and caught the attention of EPMD's Erick Sermon, who signed them to his label, Def Jam Recordings. Their debut single, "Where My Homiez? (Come Around My Way)", released in 1994, became a hit and introduced the duo to a wider audience.

2. Debut Album "Creep Wit' Me": In 1994, Ill Al Skratch released their debut album, "Creep Wit' Me", which featured production from Erick Sermon, The Beatnuts, and others. The album showcased the duo's witty wordplay, gritty storytelling, and charismatic chemistry. Songs like "I'll Take Her" and "Chill With That" became popular singles and received heavy rotation on radio and music video channels. "Creep Wit' Me" was well-received by fans and critics alike, establishing Ill Al Skratch as rising stars in the hip-hop scene.

3. Commercial Success and Collaborations: Following the success of their debut album, Ill Al Skratch collaborated with other hip-hop artists and producers, further expanding their reach in the music industry. They appeared on tracks with artists like Mobb Deep, Erick Sermon, and The Notorious B.I.G., showcasing their lyrical skills and versatility as MCs. Their collaborations helped solidify their reputation as respected artists within the hip-hop community and contributed to their growing fanbase.

4. Sophomore Album and Later Career: Ill Al Skratch released their second album, "Keep It Movin'", in 1997. The album featured production from DJ Clark Kent, Easy Mo Bee, and others, but it did not achieve the same level of commercial success as their debut. Despite their talent and potential, Ill Al Skratch's career began to wane in the late 1990s, and they eventually parted ways. Both members pursued solo projects and collaborations with other artists, but they never achieved the same level of success as they did during their time as a duo.

5. Legacy and Influence: Despite their relatively short-lived career, Ill Al Skratch left a lasting impact on the hip-hop landscape of the 1990s. They are remembered for their catchy hooks, slick rhymes, and contributions to the East Coast hip-hop sound. Their music continues to be celebrated by fans of 1990s hip-hop and serves as a reminder of an era when New York City's rap scene was thriving with talent and creativity.