In this engaging chat, Erick Sermon, a legendary rapper and producer from EPMD, opens up about the group's breakup and the impact it had on their music. He reminisces about his collaborations with icons like LL Cool J and Redman, sharing stories from the golden era of hip-hop. Sermon also discusses the evolution of music sampling and the creation of his track 'React' with Just Blaze, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of his creative journey. Get ready for a nostalgic dive into the heart of hip-hop!
Erick Sermon discusses the significant yet often overlooked influence of EPMD on the evolution of hip-hop lyrical styles in the early 90s.
The emotional fallout from EPMD's breakup highlights the impact of personal misunderstandings on professional relationships within the music industry.
Sermon emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability for artists to thrive creatively in the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop.
Deep dives
Discovering EPMD's Influence and Rivalry
The discussion highlights the significant influence of EPMD on the hip-hop landscape and the rivalry between EPMD and Eric B. and Rakim. Eric Sermon's insights reveal how EPMD, alongside other acts like Das FX, radically changed the lyrical style in hip-hop during the early 90s, introducing a new wave of complex rhyming. The competitive scene is brought to life through anecdotes from rap contests where talent was both recognized and overshadowed by larger acts, emphasizing the scrappy roots of many artists. The conversation underscores the respect for EPMD's pioneering contributions and reveals how their style inspired a generation, yet often remained unacknowledged in discussions of hip-hop evolution.
Das FX's Unique Rhyming Style
Das FX's unique 'iggity' style and its contribution to hip-hop is analyzed extensively, with Eric Sermon advocating for their crucial role in transforming rhyme schemes during the early 90s. Sermon articulates how their distinctive delivery set new standards, influencing artists who followed suit, including notable names like Jay-Z and Common. This innovative approach is positioned as a fundamental shift within the genre, one that should be recognized alongside other seminal acts of the time. However, there is a sense of lament that such contributions have often gone unrecognized in mainstream narratives, prompting introspection on how history remembers these artists.
The Complex Breakup of EPMD
The emotional turmoil surrounding the breakup of EPMD is described, focusing on instances of miscommunication and external accusations that led to a five-year separation. Eric details how a home invasion incident was mistakenly attributed to him, causing irreparable damage to their relationship and public perception. He conveys feelings of betrayal and misunderstanding that stemmed from the fallout, illustrating how personal conflict can reverberate through professional partnerships. The discussion not only sheds light on personal experiences but also reflects on the intricate dynamics that can affect long-standing musical collaborations.
Significant Productions and Their Legacy
Eric Sermon's production work is celebrated, covering a range of influential tracks that have left a lasting impact on hip-hop and R&B. Notable contributions to records like 'How High' and the remix of 'Dreamy Eyes' are discussed, showcasing his creative prowess and the seamless collaboration with artists like Redman. The interplay between raw sound and polished production is explored, revealing how innovation often stems from embracing spontaneity and experimentation in the studio. This segment serves as a tribute to the artists and the creative processes that shaped iconic records, showcasing Sermon's legacy within the competitive music industry.
The Power of Resilience and Continuing Creativity
The conversation shifts towards the resilience necessary to maintain a creative career within the evolving hip-hop landscape, with Eric emphasizing his commitment to continuously producing music. His reflections on navigating industry changes while staying true to his artistic vision illustrate the challenges artists face in remaining relevant. He expresses pride in his diverse body of work while acknowledging the importance of adapting to current trends without compromising his style. This resilience not only reflects his own journey but serves as an inspiration to emerging artists who seek to carve their paths in a highly competitive environment.
In Part 2 of this incredible 1-on-1 interview between Questlove and Erick Sermon, Ahmir asks for definitive answers about the EPMD breakup. Erick also speaks about a grocery list of hits, album cuts, and remixes from the 1990s and 2000s. This conversation intersects with stories about LL Cool J, Redman, Keith Murray, Too Short, and others. Happy 2025 from QLS.
