Erick Sermon
Erick Sermon: The Emcee Behind "Whiskey and Coke"
Erick Sermon, born in Hempstead, New York, emerged as a pivotal figure in the golden age of hip-hop. Known for his raspy vocals and witty lyrics, he rose to prominence as a member of the legendary duo EPMD, alongside Parrish Smith.
Early Career and Impact
As a child, Sermon honed his musical talents by playing the trumpet and drums. Inspired by the emerging hip-hop scene, he began rapping in his early teens. In 1986, he met Smith, and together they formed EPMD, an acronym for Erick and Parrish Making Dollars.
EPMD's debut album, "Strictly Business," released in 1988, was an instant classic. The album's innovative sound, combining raw hip-hop beats with soulful melodies, set a new standard for the genre. Sermon's distinctive rapping style, characterized by his rapid-fire delivery and clever wordplay, captivated listeners.
"Whiskey and Coke" and Solo Success
In 1992, EPMD released their fourth album, "Business Never Personal," which featured the hit single "Whiskey and Coke." Sermon's infectious vocals and the track's catchy melody made it one of the most iconic songs of the hip-hop era.
Around this time, Sermon began exploring solo projects. He released his debut solo album, "No Pressure," in 1993. The album was a commercial success, reaching platinum status and spawning the hit singles "Hittin' Home" and "Stay Real."
Challenges and Controversies
Despite his musical success, Sermon faced challenges throughout his career. In the mid-1990s, he and Smith had a falling out, leading to the dissolution of EPMD. Sermon continued to release solo albums, but they failed to match the critical and commercial acclaim of his earlier work.
Furthermore, Sermon has been involved in several controversies. In 2003, he was arrested for domestic violence. Additionally, he has been criticized for his lyrics, which have been accused of being misogynistic and promoting violence.
Discography
With EPMD:
* Strictly Business (1988)
* Unfinished Business (1989)
* Business As Usual (1990)
* Business Never Personal (1992)
* Back in Business (1997)
* Out of Business (2004)
* We Mean Business (2008)
Solo:
* No Pressure (1993)
* Double or Nothing (1995)
* Def Squad Presents Erick Onasis (1999)
* React (2002)
* Chilltown, New York (2004)
* Verbal Surgery (2009)
* E.S.P. (Erick Sermon's Perception) (2019)
Members
Erick Sermon (born May 25, 1968) - Emcee, producer, songwriter
Parrish Smith (born October 18, 1968) - Emcee, producer, songwriter
Legacy
Despite the challenges and controversies he faced, Erick Sermon remains an important figure in hip-hop history. His unique rapping style and insightful lyrics have influenced countless artists. "Whiskey and Coke" continues to be an enduring classic, showcasing the enduring power of his musical talent.
Erick Sermon, born in Hempstead, New York, emerged as a pivotal figure in the golden age of hip-hop. Known for his raspy vocals and witty lyrics, he rose to prominence as a member of the legendary duo EPMD, alongside Parrish Smith.
Early Career and Impact
As a child, Sermon honed his musical talents by playing the trumpet and drums. Inspired by the emerging hip-hop scene, he began rapping in his early teens. In 1986, he met Smith, and together they formed EPMD, an acronym for Erick and Parrish Making Dollars.
EPMD's debut album, "Strictly Business," released in 1988, was an instant classic. The album's innovative sound, combining raw hip-hop beats with soulful melodies, set a new standard for the genre. Sermon's distinctive rapping style, characterized by his rapid-fire delivery and clever wordplay, captivated listeners.
"Whiskey and Coke" and Solo Success
In 1992, EPMD released their fourth album, "Business Never Personal," which featured the hit single "Whiskey and Coke." Sermon's infectious vocals and the track's catchy melody made it one of the most iconic songs of the hip-hop era.
Around this time, Sermon began exploring solo projects. He released his debut solo album, "No Pressure," in 1993. The album was a commercial success, reaching platinum status and spawning the hit singles "Hittin' Home" and "Stay Real."
Challenges and Controversies
Despite his musical success, Sermon faced challenges throughout his career. In the mid-1990s, he and Smith had a falling out, leading to the dissolution of EPMD. Sermon continued to release solo albums, but they failed to match the critical and commercial acclaim of his earlier work.
Furthermore, Sermon has been involved in several controversies. In 2003, he was arrested for domestic violence. Additionally, he has been criticized for his lyrics, which have been accused of being misogynistic and promoting violence.
Discography
With EPMD:
* Strictly Business (1988)
* Unfinished Business (1989)
* Business As Usual (1990)
* Business Never Personal (1992)
* Back in Business (1997)
* Out of Business (2004)
* We Mean Business (2008)
Solo:
* No Pressure (1993)
* Double or Nothing (1995)
* Def Squad Presents Erick Onasis (1999)
* React (2002)
* Chilltown, New York (2004)
* Verbal Surgery (2009)
* E.S.P. (Erick Sermon's Perception) (2019)
Members
Erick Sermon (born May 25, 1968) - Emcee, producer, songwriter
Parrish Smith (born October 18, 1968) - Emcee, producer, songwriter
Legacy
Despite the challenges and controversies he faced, Erick Sermon remains an important figure in hip-hop history. His unique rapping style and insightful lyrics have influenced countless artists. "Whiskey and Coke" continues to be an enduring classic, showcasing the enduring power of his musical talent.