EPMD: The Pioneers of Funk-Driven Hip Hop and Business-Minded Lyricism

📍 Brentwood, New York | 🎤 Golden Era Icons | 💰 Def Squad & Hit Squad Founders

Introduction: The Origin of EPMD

EPMD is an American hip-hop duo from Brentwood, New York, consisting of Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith. Their name stands for “Erick and Parrish Making Dollars,” reflecting their business-oriented mindset in an era when financial independence in hip-hop was rare.

Since their debut in the late 1980s, EPMD has been known for its funk-infused beats, smooth flows, and hard-hitting, business-minded lyrics. These have influenced countless artists, from Nas to Jay-Z.

Suggested Image Placement:

📸 Early EPMD promo shot

The Rise: “Strictly Business” (1988)

EPMD burst onto the scene in 1987 with their debut single “It’s My Thing”, which immediately established their funk-heavy, sample-driven sound.

In 1988, they dropped their first Strictly Business album on Sleeping Bag/Fresh Records. The album became an instant classic, built on funk and rock samples (especially Roger Troutman, Zapp, and James Brown).

🎧 Key Tracks from “Strictly Business”
✅ “Strictly Business” – A funky, confident anthem that set their signature style.
✅ “You Gots to Chill” – One of hip hop’s most recognizable beats, sampling Zapp’s “More Bounce to the Ounce”.
✅ “It’s My Thing” – Their debut single put them on the map.

🔥 Fun Fact: “Strictly Business” went GOLD without any radio-friendly singles!

Video: “You Gots to Chill” (1988)

The Hit-Making Streak: “Unfinished Business” to “Business As Usual” (1989–1990)

EPMD quickly followed up with Unfinished Business (1989), keeping their signature funk-infused sound.

By 1990, with their third album, Business As Usual, EPMD solidified their status as hip-hop elites, introducing the world to a then-unknown rapper:

🎤 Redman – He debuted on “Hardcore”, showcasing his raw lyrical style.

Key Highlights:

🔥 First album under Def Jam after leaving Sleeping Bag Records
🎤 Hit singles: “Rampage” (ft. LL Cool J) & “Gold Digger”

Video: “Rampage” feat. LL Cool J (1990)

Breakup & Solo Careers (1992-1996)

Despite their success, tension between Erick and Parrish led to their first breakup in 1992 after their fourth album, Business Never Personal. The fallout included rumors of robbery attempts at Parrish’s home, allegedly linked to Erick.

During the split:

🎤 Erick Sermon went solo, dropping No Pressure (1993) and forming Def Squad (Redman, Keith Murray, etc.)
🎤 Parrish Smith launched a solo career under the name PMD (Parrish Making Dollars) and formed Hit Squad (Das EFX, K-Solo, etc.)

Video: Erick Sermon – “Stay Real” (1993)

The Reunion & New Millennium (1997-Present)

By 1997, the duo squashed their beef and reunited with Back in Business, marking their comeback with hits like “Da Joint”.

In 1999, they followed up without of Business, cementing their legacy as one of the longest-running duos in hip-hop.

Since then, they’ve remained active, with:

✅ Tours & Festival Appearances
✅ Collaborations with newer artists
✅ Erick Sermon’s work as a legendary producer

Video: “Da Joint” (1997)

Legacy: How EPMD Changed Hip Hop Forever

EPMD paved the way for future generations by:
✅ Mastering Business in Hip Hop – Their name wasn’t just for show. They inspired future moguls like Jay-Z and Diddy.
✅ Introducing Redman & Keith Murray – Two of the most respected lyricists in hip-hop history.
✅ Setting the Standard for Hip Hop Duos – Without EPMD, no Outkast, Mobb Deep, or Black Star exists.

🎤 “We stay true to the game. Hip Hop owes us nothing, we owe it everything.” – Erick Sermon

EPMD – Head Banger (Official Music Video)

Final Thoughts: What’s Next for EPMD?

As of today, EPMD still tours and influences new artists and remains one of the most respected duos in hip-hop history. Their impact on sound, business, and longevity is undeniable.

👀 What’s Your Favorite EPMD Album? Drop Your Thoughts Below!

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