KingsOfKings
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Here's a breakdown of the key points:
Early Exposure to Hip-Hop in Chicago (0:14-1:22): Wildstyle recounts his early exposure to hip-hop through his uncles playing Sugar Hill Gang and watching breakdancing shows like "Breaking and Entering." He describes Chicago as a melting pot for music styles and how he, like many other kids, engaged in various hip-hop elements such as DJing, breakdancing, and graffiti without knowing their origins. He also mentions playing drums from a young age, which helped him quickly pick up music skills.
Pioneering Figures in Chicago Hip-Hop (2:08-4:54): Wildstyle highlights early Chicago hip-hop artists who predated his era, including Common (then Tongue Twister), Twister, Da Brat, and R. Kelly. He shares that Crucial Conflict gained recognition by consistently winning talent shows in their neighborhood before going major. He also talks about attending industry events like "Jack the Rapper" and "BRE" in the early 90s, where they showcased their talent and met up-and-coming artists like Tupac and TLC, which groomed them for the industry.
Formation of Crucial Conflict (4:56-6:49): Wildstyle explains that Crucial Conflict formed in 1987 when he and his members were freshmen. He initially DJed more seriously than rapping but later took rap more seriously after getting into some trouble. He and Kilo, another member, were encouraged by a mutual friend, Rocky G, to form a group. The name "Crucial Conflict" emerged from their deep immersion in hip-hop.
Involvement with Fab Five Freddy (6:51-9:09): Wildstyle shares that various major record labels, including CBS, Sony, Universal, and Epic, flew to Chicago to see Crucial Conflict showcase their music in their studio. They ultimately signed with Palace Records, largely influenced by Fab Five Freddy, who was an ANR for the label and known from "Yo! MTV Raps."
Cameo in the Film Belly (9:15-10:44): Wildstyle discusses how Crucial Conflict got involved in Hype Williams' film "Belly" through mutual friends. He personally missed out on being in the movie due to a run-in with the law but had a song on the soundtrack. The other members' energy and "country twang" from Chicago impressed Hype Williams, securing their parts.
The "Rodeo" Style and Midwest Influence (10:46-13:22): Wildstyle addresses the "country" label often given to Midwest artists. He explains that Crucial Conflict's "rodeo" style was a deliberate metaphor, connecting the imagery of cowboys and the wild west to modern street life. He believes their unique style helped open doors for other Midwest artists like Nelly, inspiring them to embrace their authentic sound. He also asserts that their "bouncing" beat style with high hats came directly from him, revolutionizing the game.
Past Beef with Bone Thugs-n-Harmony and Other Midwest Artists (13:25-18:45): Wildstyle discusses the mid-90s rivalry concerning who originated or popularized fast rapping. He recounts how Bone Thugs-n-Harmony's style was similar to theirs, leading to a brief period of tension involving Three 6 Mafia, Bone, and other Chicago artists like Twister, Do or Die, and Crucial Conflict. He emphasizes that fast rapping existed before any of them, but his contribution was the unique "bounce" in the beats. He appreciates Timbaland's acknowledgment of being inspired by Crucial Conflict on "Drink Champs."
Current Status and Future Projects (19:25-21:08): Wildstyle confirms that Crucial Conflict is still together and touring. He is currently working on solo projects, including music for his son and with an original member, Little Smooth T. He has a new party song called "Uhhuh. Get up." available on all streaming platforms and has upcoming shows. He expresses gratitude for the support and love for Crucial Conflict's impact on hip-hop.