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Founded in Oakland during the late 1980s, Digital Underground are among the most innovative and original forces in hip-hop. Their 1990 debut LP Sex Packets put them on the map with two major singles, "Doowhutchyalike" and "The Humpty Dance" -- the latter introducing the world to Shock G's eccentric alter-ego Humpty Hump. Armed with charismatic flows and contagious grooves merging samples and live instrumentation, they brought forth fresh new takes on the classic foundations of George Clinton and P-Funk. With playful lyrics and experimental concepts, they crafted a funkdified, party-rocking style never resorting to gangsterisms, though sometimes sounding off on social and political issues. The group's follow-up EP was the first release featuring Tupac, whom they would later produce when he went solo. DU's multitalented lineup, including Shock G, Money B, Chopmaster J, DJ Fuze, Kenny K and others, would periodically change throughout the decade; and while mostly remembered for their early hits, they continue to put out high quality work. DU have released six full albums and continue to bring the funk with their over-the-top recordings and flamboyant live shows. |
