On this day June 7, 1988, EPMD released their debut album Strictly Business. The album peaked at number 80 on the Billboard 200 but reached number 1 on the Top R and B Albums chart, marking a major entrance into the golden era of hip hop.
Strictly Business introduced the world to Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith, who brought a smooth, funk driven sound with sharp lyricism and laid back confidence. With minimal promotion and no flashy gimmicks, the album still went gold, powered by its title track and the duo’s undeniable chemistry.
EPMD quickly earned respect for their production and style, helping define the East Coast hip hop sound that would dominate the late 80s and early 90s.
80s insight: Strictly Business was a bold example of how raw talent and street level authenticity could break through in the growing hip hop movement. It set a tone for what real could sound like.
Strictly Business introduced the world to Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith, who brought a smooth, funk driven sound with sharp lyricism and laid back confidence. With minimal promotion and no flashy gimmicks, the album still went gold, powered by its title track and the duo’s undeniable chemistry.
EPMD quickly earned respect for their production and style, helping define the East Coast hip hop sound that would dominate the late 80s and early 90s.
80s insight: Strictly Business was a bold example of how raw talent and street level authenticity could break through in the growing hip hop movement. It set a tone for what real could sound like.
