The Roots Picnic has been an annual tradition in the band’s hometown, Philadelphia, for the past decade, but this year, they expanded that tradition to the West Coast with a concert at the Hollywood Bowl featuring a slew of rap pioneers like Arrested Development, Black Sheep, Common, Queen Latifah, The Pharcyde, and more. The show was a success, so it’s returning in June 2025 with A Roots Picnic Experience: Class of ’95.
This time around, the lineup consists of acts that had their biggest breakouts in the middle of hip-hop’s golden decade, with Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, DJ Quik, E-40, Goodie Mob, Havoc of Mobb Deep, Lil’ Kim, Raekwon, and Redman & Method Man all billed to take the stage, backed — as always — by The Roots and Black Thought. As for why they picked 1995 as the focus year, Questlove explains in the press release:
1995 was our true arrival. Nineteen eighty-seven was the Year of the Creative Adhesive, the year that tied together [Black Thought]’s world and my world in high school, and 1991 was the Year of the Green Light, the year we gave ourselves permission to take our resources and passion and pursue our dream. But 1995? That was the Year It All Came Together, the year when our first major release, Do You Want More?!!!??! was sent into the world. Hip-hop was an entirely new ballgame back then, on an entirely new playing field. Those were the days when there were still things like mainstream terrestrial radio, bloated video budgets, and creativity at both the regional and the global levels. Those were the days that produced classic album after classic album, unleashing countless new ideas about art. Those were the days when the world was our oyster. This is the story of those days
A Roots Picnic Experience: Class of ’95 takes place on 6/8/2025. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, December 11, at 10 am PT at hollywoodbowl.com.
On this day in Hip Hop history, we celebrate a quarter-century of one of Bone Thugs-n-Harmony’s most popular pieces of work, The Art of War. As a follow-up to the group’s most successful album E. 1999 Eternal, The Art of War did everything but disappoint. The album kept the group’s momentum up, claiming the top spot on both the Billboard 200 and Top R&B/Hip-Hop charts. This album even capitalized on the double LP trend of the 90s in a way that was cohesive and unsaturated.
Originally rumored to be titled DNA Level C or “Cleveland” spelled backward, this album took its current title and became a declaration of war against rappers whom Bone Thugs believed to be imitators of the style they created. Some of the groups and artists targeted were Three 6 Mafia, Twista, Crucial Conflict, and Tommy Wright III. Through this project, Bone Thugs looked to cement themselves as the only soulful east coast gangsta rappers in the industry.
Commercially this album was a great success, selling 349,000 copies in its first week on shelves and going on to be certified quadruple platinum only one year after its release. The album’s two singles were also big hits with “If I Could Teach the World” reaching #27 on the Billboard Hot 100 and “Look Into My Eyes” peak at #4 on the same chart.
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, released their 2nd LP “East 1999 Eternal July 25, 1995, on Ruthless Records
Four months after the death of rapper/executive producer Eazy-E, Oleveland rap quartet Bone Thugs-N-Harmony released their 2nd studio album East 1999 Eternal. Today marks 20 years since the release of the HipHop classic. With songs like “Tha Crossroads” and “First of The Month”, the album became the group’s best-selling album, with over five million copies sold in the United States and ten million worldwide.
The melodic LP samples songs like “Make Me Say It Again Girl” by The Isley Brothers on “Tha Crossroads”; “Reasons” by Earth, Wind & Fire on “Budsmokers Only”; “I’d Rather Be With You” by Bootsy’s Rubber Band on “Mo Murda” and “I Will Follow Him” by Little Peggy March on “Me Killa”, making it an instant cult classic.
“Tha Crossroads”, dedicated to Easy E, is Bone’s Grammy Award–winning song, as well as one of the group’s most popular and biggest selling single to date; check it out above.
On this date in Hip Hop history, Cleveland, Ohio rap quartet Bone Thugs N Harmony dropped their very first EP Creepin’ On Ah Come Up to the world 29 years ago through the Ruthless/Relativity imprint.
Produced primarily by their mentor Eazy-E and N.W.A.’s DJ Yella, Creepin’ showcased the BTNH’s sing-song harmonious rap style, which was unprecedented at the time. The 8-track extended play featured one of their most famous tracks to date, “Thuggish Ruggish Bone” as well as one of their first video offerings, “Foe The Love Of $”. The EP was a commercial success, earning the group a certified 4x certified platinum classic.
Salute to Wish, Bizzy, Krayzie, Layzie, Eazy-E(RIP) ad the entire Ruthless crew who made this a timeless piece of Hip Hop history!
The pride and joy of Cleveland hip-hop is back. Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, the iconic 1990s group, is celebrating three decades of music. While the specific circumstances under which the celebration will happen is still unclear, Lazyie Bown took to Instagram on May 10 to assure fans that something is going to happen. This is a huge deal, considering the five-man group haven’t put out new music since 2017 or toured since 2022. Apparently, all it took was an anniversary to bring them back together.
Layzie Bone posted a video on his Instagram to confirm that June 23 is a day that Bone Thugs-n-Harmony fans need to clear on their calendars. “We celebrating 30 years now,” he explained. “June 23, 1994, is the day that ‘Thuggish Ruggish Bone’ came out. The celebration of 30 years.” Layzie went on the mention some of the artists that the group has worked with over the years, it’s basically a who’s who of 90s icons. “Now you know you got your Bone and Biggies,” he added. “You got your 2Pacs and your Mariah Careys. And JDs, and Bow Wow. We done mixed and mingled with a lot of people.”
Then, the bombshell. “Now, on the 30th year anniversary,” the Bone Thugs-n-Harmony rapper stated. “We’re gonna do it again.” It’s about as exciting as an announcement can be while still being vague. Layzie doesn’t clarify whether the group is getting back together to record a new song, new album, or perform a show together. It’s worth noting that the last time Bone Thugs were doing shows, they were pitching it as their “farewell tour.” The group has been through turmoil and inner-conflict over the years, with members coming and going.
Part of the appeal of the so-called “farewell tour” was that all five members agreed to come back and dazzle fans with their flows. Layzie, Krayzie, Wish, Flesh and Bizzy Bone set their differences aside to go out on a high note. It’ll be interesting to see whether this 30th anniversary celebration will follow suit, or if it will see key members sitting out.
N.W.A is the fifth rap group to receive the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy, joining legend such as Run-DMC, Public Enemy, Grandmaster Flash & the Furious Five, and Salt-N-Pepa.
At this year’s Grammys, N.W.A. was presented with the accolade by the iconic Bone Thugs-N-Harmony during The Recording Academy’s Special Merit Awards Ceremony, taking place Saturday, February 3rd at the historic Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles.
Emerging from Compton, California, in the late 1980s, N.W.A.’s Eazy-E, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, MC Ren, and DJ Yella captured the zeitgeist of their era, channeling their experiences into a revolutionary sound that would forever alter the course of music. Their unflinching narratives and potent beats laid the groundwork for the genre’s future and solidified their status as pioneers of hip-hop. In addition to presenting the award, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony attributes their ongoing success to N.W.A after getting signed to Eazy-E’s label Ruthless Records 30 years ago.
The ceremony was a convergence of legends as Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, with their own rich history in the genre, paid tribute to N.W.A.’s trailblazing contributions. The Grammy stage was a testament to the power of music as a force for cultural expression and change, honoring the legacy of artists who dared to speak their truth.
Bizzy Bone, a key figure in the hip-hop world and a member of the legendary group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony has woven a career marked by lyrical depth, unique flow, and resilience. His contributions to the music industry, both as a group member and a solo artist, have culminated in a net worth of $2 million by 2024, as reported by Wealthy Gorilla. This is a further reflection of his enduring influence and artistic versatility.
The Rhythmic Saga: Bizzy Bone’s Musical Milestones
WOODLAND HILLS, CA – JULY 20: Rap artist Bone Thugs N Harmony pose for their first portrait in. 10 years in Woodland Hills, California on July 20, 2008. (Photo by Jim Steinfeldt/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Bizzy Bone’s journey in the music industry began with Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, a group known for their melodic harmonies and rapid-fire rapping style. Their groundbreaking album, E. 1999 Eternal, featuring hits like “Tha Crossroads,” catapulted them to fame. Bizzy’s distinct voice and emotive lyrics contributed significantly to the group’s unique sound. His solo career further showcased his talent, with albums like Heaven’z Movie revealing a more personal and introspective side of the artist.
Echoes Of Influence: Bizzy Bone’s Impact & Legacy
LOS ANGELES, CA – SEPTEMBER 24: Bizzy Bone, Flesh-n-Bone, Wish Bone and Krayzie Bone of. Bone Thugs-n-Harmony pose for ‘Skee Live’ at L.A. Live on. September 24, 2013 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Tiffany Rose/WireImage)
Throughout his career, Bizzy Bone has been recognized for his contributions to the evolution of hip-hop. His distinctive rapid-fire delivery and ability to infuse emotion into his verses have influenced a generation of rappers. Beyond his musical achievements, Bizzy’s story of overcoming personal challenges has resonated with fans, adding depth to his artistic persona.
Beyond The Beats: Bizzy Bone’s Life & Aspirations
NEW YORK, NY – APRIL 19: (L-R) Rapper Krayzie Bone, singer LeToya Luckett and rapper Bizzy Bone visit SiriusXM Studios on April 19, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Matthew Eisman/Getty Images)
Off the stage, Bizzy Bone’s life reflects his journey through trials and triumphs. His advocacy for children’s welfare and his openness about his struggles and triumphs offer inspiration beyond his music. Bizzy’s personal journey, from a challenging childhood to achieving success in the music industry, underscores his resilience and determination, making him a respected and influential figure in hip-hop.
Bizzy Bone’s ascent is not just a financial narrative. It’s a testament to his impact as an artist and a survivor in the hip-hop industry. His career, marked by groundbreaking music and personal resilience, is complemented by his commitment to advocacy and personal growth, establishing him as an iconic figure in the realm of music.
As the sun rose on June 17, 1973, in Cleveland, Ohio, another star was born—Anthony Henderson, known as Krayzie Bone. In the epicenter of a city pulsing with a diverse cultural blend, Krayzie found his feet and voice in the evocative corridors of blues, gospel, and burgeoning hip-hop. His childhood was steeped in a cacophony of sounds and struggles, all funneled through the lens of an artist in the making.
With each heartbeat of the city, the future rapper, entrepreneur, and luminary found a rhythm, adopting the moniker Krayzie Bone and channeling his persona into the rap collective known as Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. Thus began an odyssey that defied the norms of his locale and era. It’s worth noting that by 2024, Krayzie Bone’s amalgamation of endeavors had culminated in an estimated net worth of $6 million, as reported by Allfamousbirthday.
The Artistic Magnum Opus: High Notes Of A Career
MAMMOTH LAKES, CA – FEBRUARY 10: Krayzie Bone poses for portrait giveback for The Artists Project at The Inaugural Mammoth Film Festival on February 10, 2018 in Mammoth Lakes, California. (Photo by Michael Bezjian/Getty Images for Mammoth Film Festival)
The layered tapestry of Krayzie Bone’s artistic endeavors is nothing short of kaleidoscopic. As part of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Krayzie hit pay dirt with the 1995 album E. 1999 Eternal. The ensemble went from neighborhood celebrities to national icons, propelled by tracks that broke sonic barriers and defied genre classifications. But let’s not overlook his solo works—the 1999 album Thug Mentality 1999 is a cathedral of sound, a dual-disc anthology offering a panoramic view of Krayzie’s multi-faceted persona. And then came his collaborative work with the likes of Chamillionaire, Ice Cube, and Mariah Carey, each joint endeavor serving as a milestone in an ever-evolving career.
The Entrepreneurial Sonata: More Than Verses & Hooks
CHICAGO – APRIL 1995: Rappers Layzie Bone, Krayzie Bone, Bizzy Bone, Wish Bone and Flesh-N-Bone of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony poses for photos with an unidentified rapper (2nd left) backstage at the International Amphitheatre in Chicago, Illinois in April 1995. (Photo By Raymond Boyd/Getty Images)
While the spotlight often focuses on Krayzie Bone’s music, the man is more than his discography; he’s an entrepreneur par excellence. For those intrigued by intoxicating aromas, Krayzie has a line of vaping products that bear his iconic branding. And let’s not disregard his media endeavors; the man co-hosts a podcast called Chasing The Devil, an auditory feast where conversations are as vivid as his lyrics. It’s a conglomerate of investments, media engagements, and business ventures that bring multiple revenue streams into the Krayzie empire.
The Man Behind The Mic: Private Life
OAKLAND, CA – DECEMBER 12: Krayzie Bone of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony performs during the “Snoop Dogg’s Puff Puff Pass Tour” at Fox Theater on December 12, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images)
Though shrouded in the sort of enigma one would expect from a rap legend, Krayzie Bone’s personal life is a patchwork of the very experiences that color his lyrics. Fatherhood, marriage, and a foray into the spiritual space have all contributed to the intricate jigsaw that is Krayzie Bone. Though he keeps these cards close to his vest, the glimpses he offers through his music and interviews construct a persona layered in complexity and cloaked in authenticity.
The Symphony’s End: Where We Stand
To characterize Krayzie Bone merely as a rapper or a part of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony would be to grossly undervalue a man who is an orchestra of talent, ambition, and enterprise. His net worth of $6 million offers a financial reflection of this. Yet, the dollars and cents are but a byproduct of a journey marked by grit, ingenuity, and a ceaseless desire to evolve. The legacy he’s building transcends any numerical evaluation, evolving into something richer and more enduring with each passing verse and venture.
Krayzie Bone recently updated fans about his health after a medical scare. The 50-year-old rapper was hospitalized for over a week after coughing up blood and undergoing multiple surgeries. Good News Krayzie Bone, a member of the iconic rap group Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, recently opened up about his health after a medical scare. Sharing the news […]
Krazyzie Bone of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony is awake and appears to be recovering after a scary incident that left him hospitalized and “fighting for his life.” The Cleveland rapper returned to Instagram to share an update with fans, who were rightly relieved to find that he had survived his life-threatening health scare. “Just fought for life literally for 9 days straight,” he wrote in the caption. “And I only won the battle this time because I know Jehovah God was with me every step of the way fighting for me. Never take life for granted enjoy it while have you have it! Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers trust me I needed every last one of them.”
The 50-year-old rapper — whose real name is Anthony Henderson — was hospitalized late last month after coughing up blood when doctors discovered a bleeding artery in his lung. After undergoing surgery to repair the artery, Henderson was placed into a medically induced coma to recover, only for doctors to find that the bleeder returned, necessitating a second surgery. After bandmate Bizzy Bone asked for prayers on Twitter, fans of the pioneering Cleveland group responded in force, including fellow Cleveland native LeBron James. Here’s hoping Krayzie Bone continues to recover and gets to enjoy the renewed interest in the group in the last few years.
