#TTTP EP9 “DJ PRINCE PAUL”

The crowned Prince of De La

DJ Prince Paul is an American hip-hop producer, DJ, and record label owner whose career has spanned over four decades and has earned him a reputation as one of the most influential producers in the hip-hop genre. His career began in the 1980s, when he was a member of the rap trio Stetsasonic, before going on to produce classic albums for groups such as De La Soul, Gravediggaz and Handsome Boy Modeling School. This blog post examines the extraordinary rise to fame of DJ Prince Paul and his role in shaping the sound of hip-hop.

Early career with Stetsasonic

DJ Prince Paul’s career began in the late 1980s, when he joined the hip-hop group Stetsasonic. The group released their debut album, On Fire, in 1988, which was produced by Paul and was acclaimed for its innovative blend of funk, soul, and hip-hop. The album was a commercial success, peaking at number 1 on the Billboard Top Rap Albums Chart, and it established Paul as a prominent figure in the hip-hop scene.Paul also produced the group’s follow-up album, In Full Gear, which was released in 1989. The album featured the single “Talkin’ All That Jazz”, which peaked at number 8 on the Billboard Hot Rap Singles chart, and was praised for its innovative use of sampling and its funk-infused sound. The album was also a commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Top Rap Albums chart and establishing Paul as one of the most sought-after producers in the hip-hop scene.

Producing for De La Soul and Gravediggaz

In 1989, Paul began producing for the rap group De La Soul, who were signed to Tommy Boy Records. He produced their debut album, 3 Feet High and Rising, which was released in 1989 and was acclaimed for its innovative use of sampling and its positive, uplifting message. The album was a commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Top Rap Albums Chart and becoming one of the most influential hip-hop albums of all time.Paul also produced the group’s follow-up album, De La Soul Is Dead, which was released in 1991. The album was a departure from the group’s previous work, featuring darker and more experimental production. Despite the change in sound, the album was a commercial success, peaking at number 1 on the Billboard Top Rap Albums Chart, and it cemented Paul’s reputation as one of the most innovative producers in the hip-hop scene.

The Rise of Handsome Boy Modeling School

In 1999, Paul formed the production duo Handsome Boy Modeling School with producer Dan the Automator. The duo released their debut album, So… How’s Your Girl?, in 1999, which featured guest appearances from Del tha Funkee Homosapien, Mike D of the Beastie Boys, and DJ Shadow. The album was acclaimed for its innovative production and use of samples, and it was a commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Top Rap Albums chart.The duo’s follow-up album, White People, was released in 2004 and featured a more eclectic sound, incorporating elements of funk, soul, and jazz. The album was well-received by critics, and it peaked at number 1 on the Billboard Top Rap Albums chart. The album cemented Paul’s reputation of the most innovative and influential producers in the hip-hop scene.

Conclusion

DJ Prince Paul’s career has spanned over four decades and has been marked by his groundbreaking production for groups such as Stetsasonic, De La Soul, Gravediggaz, and Handsome Boy Modeling School. His influence on the sound of hip-hop is undeniable, and his legacy as one of the most influential producers in the genre will live on for generations to come.