Whodini: Ancient Hip-Hop

When I finally decided on a title for this article, I chose “Ancient Hip-Hop” for several reasons. I am not insulting, degrading, or undermining the talent and musical precision of the legendary group Whodini. Instead, I am applauding their longevity and their legend in a world that I am a complete fan of. Hip-Hop and Rap are bigger than ever in American culture today, and this artistic phenomenon developed a culture unlike anything else. I do not suppose that Whodini could have imagined an evolution quite like this, but they must get some of the credit for getting the game going. Their discography is somewhat impressive, but the aspect I like most about this special group is their known contribution and virtual collaboration. For instance according to reports, Bone-Thugs-N-Harmony, Jermaine Dupri, and Will Smith have all ripped off some of Whodini’s greatest beats and melodies.

Whodini got their start in the greatest Hip-Hop Mecca in the world, Brooklyn, New York. The trio, Jalil Hutchins, John “Ecstasy” Fletcher, and Drew “Grandmaster Dee” Carter began in the early 80s, at a time when Rock ‘N Roll still prevailed. They were a breath of fresh air in the music industry and today people should know their name once again (or maybe even for the first time). One of their classics, “The Freaks Come Out at Night,” has a very clever and entertaining video that shows the true essence of Hip-Hop’s movement in the early 80s. This group was one of the pioneers of music television as well, and today, we all know how important that remains for the Hip-Hop industry. 

When a young adult, like myself, watches this video, I completely think of the 80s. It is somewhat comical at first, but Whodini captured their generation in clothing style, hair-dos, and easy to remember lyrical hooks. These three gentlemen are still in the music business, and John “Ecstasy” Fletcher promotes for a couple of up and coming acts. Whodini wrote their sixth album entitled “Six” in 1996. This group has not gotten its due for what they brought to the table for the spawn of a grand new culture.

In 2007, Whodini was called to the podium of the “VH1 Hip Hop Honors Awards” to receive much-deserved congratulations. At the awards show, according to comedian Chris Rock, Run DMC gave a lot of credit to Whodini for bringing about this amazing new culture. Chris Rock later added, “this trio of Hip-Hop giants trail blazed a blend of R & B and Rap that defines black music today. They were the temptations of Hip-Hop, because of their style their choreography, and their sing song lyrics.” After the award was given, Whodini gave their own words about the game and the legacy they created. They provide a great metaphor in this Youtube interview. The group described a blanket of snow that fell on the ground, and they were the first to put an imprint in the snow. The great thing about true genius is the fact that these artists knew their impact from the very beginning. They inspired a generation that birthed an industry that is unlike no other.

-Stan Walters