B-Legit, born Brandt Jones in 1970, grew up in the gritty streets of Richmond, California. Inspired by the burgeoning rap scene of the late 80s, he formed the group The Click with E-40, Suga T, and D-Shot. Their debut album, "Let's Side," released in 1991, catapulted them into the West Coast rap spotlight.
Breakthrough Success:
In 1993, B-Legit released his solo debut album, "Tryin' to Get a Buck." The album's lead single, "Ain't Hard 2 Find," became a massive hit, reaching number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100. B-Legit's lyrics, which chronicled the struggles and triumphs of inner-city life, resonated with audiences across the country.
Discography:
Throughout his career, B-Legit has released a prolific catalog of albums and singles, including:
* Tryin' to Get a Buck (1993) * The Hemp Museum (1995) * The Hemp Museum II (1998) * Hempin' Ain't Easy (1999) * Hard 2 Find (2001) * The Reign (2003) * Certified (2006) * The New Beginning (2010)
Challenges and Controversies:
B-Legit's success was not without its challenges. In 1995, he was arrested for possession of marijuana. The incident led to a brief hiatus from music, but he eventually returned to recording and touring.
Members:
B-Legit's band has evolved over the years, but core members have included:
* B-Legit (lead vocals, songwriter) * D-Shot (backing vocals) * Suga T (backing vocals) * E-40 (occasional guest appearances)
Legacy:
B-Legit is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of West Coast rap. His music has influenced countless artists and helped shape the sound of the genre. His songs continue to be celebrated for their authenticity, lyrical prowess, and infectious beats.