Picture the scene: The rap world is in a summer whirlwind in 1997, and the legendary hip-hop duo EPMD decides to storm back into the spotlight with ‘Back in Business’. This album marked their triumphant return after a five-year hiatus, re-energizing a genre yearning for authenticity and grit amid the rise of more commercial sounds. Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith, the masterminds behind EPMD (an acronym for Erick and Parrish Making Dollars), brought back their distinct style rooted in funk-heavy beats and sharp, streetwise lyrics. The album dropped on September 23, 1997, under Def Jam Recordings, reestablishing the duo’s position in hip-hop after their split in 1992 due to personal and financial conflicts.
The ‘90s were transformative for hip-hop, a period marked by innovation but also by commercialization. In this environment, EPMD’s return served as a reality check, a reminder of the power and creativity that raw hip-hop could channel. The album didn’t just cater to old fans; it also spoke to a new generation discovering hip-hop’s golden era through different ears. With tracks like "Richter Scale" and "Da Joint," they seamlessly blended their classic sound with modern influences, capturing both nostalgia and novelty.
‘Back in Business’ resonates with listeners through its clever sampling and compelling wordplay. The duo drew inspiration from their original blueprint, using funk and soul samples that highlighted their roots and inventive approach to production. For example, within "Da Joint,” listeners are instantly captivated by its infectious groove and lyrical bravado, characteristic of EPMD’s signature style. It’s a danceable track with bars that boast confident storytelling, emanating the energy that defined late ‘80s and early ‘90s hip-hop.
While EPMD's style was largely celebrated, some critics argued that the album clung too tightly to old formulas without striking out into new ground. Yet, many hip-hop purists embraced the return to form, seeing it as a necessary anchor amidst a landscape increasingly influenced by pop elements. By reuniting, EPMD delivered a message that their chemistry was intact and still potent, a statement that resonated as a defiant act against an industry constantly shifting.
The album also featured appearances from big names such as Redman, Das EFX, Keith Murray, and Nocturnal, aligning itself with other East Coast artists who valued lyricism and authenticity. These collaborations didn’t just add star power; they spoke volumes about EPMD’s respect and influence within the hip-hop community. Artists respected EPMD’s pioneering efforts and their commitment to keeping it real, making them a rallying point for those tired of the rising commercialization.
The youth of today, Gen Z, who might gravitate towards the likes of Lil Nas X or Billie Eilish, can still find resonance in EPMD's work. This generation, often characterized by their activism and awareness, might appreciate the duo’s realness and honest critique of socio-economic themes that still ring true. EPMD’s willingness to address issues head-on offers lessons on artistry and ethos that transcend mere entertainment.
Discussing EPMD's influence often brings out comparisons with today’s artists who are redefining boundaries in music genres. Moreover, the duo's commitment to representing their roots in an industry often driven by trends is something that aligns with the Gen Z ethos of authenticity over appearance. They were pioneers of their time, challenging conventions to shape a future they believed in, akin to how today's young icons are shaping conversations around mental health, inclusion, and the environment.
Listening to ‘Back in Business’ feels like opening a time capsule full of valuable treasures from the past while still tantalizing enough to feel relevant today. It represents both EPMD’s technical skill and the cultural mark they left on the music world. Just as old school gamers appreciate the foundational games that carved out new paths in digital storytelling, music lovers and creators can look to this album for its foundational role in hip-hop’s evolution.
There’s an undeniable thrill in watching, or listening to, a reunion of artists who created something magical. While ‘Back in Business’ might not have reinvented EPMD or the wheel of hip-hop, it beautifully reaffirmed their mastery over the craft. For anyone navigating the endless waves of today’s music, taking a moment to appreciate where it all came from offers insights that are both humbling and inspiring.