Public Enemy, the influential American hip-hop group, has seen several members come and go. They all contributed to the group’s evolution and impact on the music scene. This article delves into the ensemble that made up this iconic band.
The Core Of Public Enemy: Founding Members
Chuck D, Flavor Flav and Terminator X, members of the hip hop group Public Enemy, photographed on May 1, 1987. (Photo by Jack Mitchell/Getty Images)
The founding members are at the heart of Public Enemy: Chuck D and Flavor Flav. These two have been the only consistent members of the band since its formation in 1985. Both icons have maintained the group’s distinct sound and message despite the many lineup changes over the years.
Chuck D, born Carlton Ridenhour, is Public Enemy’s primary lyricist and lead vocalist. Known for his powerful voice and politically charged lyrics, Chuck D played a crucial role in establishing Public Enemy’s strong social and political stance. His partner in rhyme, Flavor Flav, born William Drayton, added a unique flavor to the group. As a rapper, hype man, and comic foil to Chuck D’s intensity, Flavor Flav provided a dynamic balance to the group’s sound and stage presence.
Key Contributors: Professor Griff & Terminator X
Professor Griff, born Richard Griffin, served as the group’s Minister of Information. He joined Public Enemy at its inception but left in 1989. He rejoined in 1998, only to part ways again some years later1. His input in the group’s thematic content was pivotal, especially in their critique of American society. Additionally, Terminator X, born Norman Rogers, was Public Enemy’s original DJ. His turntable skills were an essential component of the group’s sound. However, he was replaced by DJ Lord in 1998 after deciding to step back from the group1.
Modern Lineup: DJ Lord & Sammy Sam
Chuck D, Flavor Flav, Terminator X, and members of the hip hop group Public Enemy, photographed in September 1988. (Photo by Jack Mitchell/Getty Images)
DJ Lord, real name Lord Aswod, has been with the legendary group since 1998, stepping in for Terminator X. His turntable acumen has helped to maintain the group’s signature sound and high-energy performances. Sammy Sam is a recent addition to the group. Though not as well-known as the founding members, he plays an essential role in the current lineup.
Public Enemy Radio
Public Enemy on 9/03/92 in Chicago, Il. (Photo by Paul Natkin/WireImage)
In a surprising twist, it was announced in 2020 that Flavor Flav was fired from the group. This was later revealed as a publicity stunt for April Fools’ Day. Regardless, the group has also been touring and recording music under Public Enemy Radio. This lineup includes Chuck D, Jahi, DJ Lord, and the S1Ws.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Public Enemy’s lineup has seen numerous changes over the years. Despite these shifts, the group has managed to retain its distinctive sound and powerful message, thanks to the contributions of each member. As we look back on the band’s history, it’s clear that each member of Public Enemy has left a unique mark on this iconic hip-hop group.
April 10, 1990 was the release date of a cornerstone in hip hop music: Public Enemy’sFear of a Black Planet. Still known as one of the most empowering albums of its time, the album was written during a pivotal era both in America and music: the Golden Age of Hip Hop.
Preceding the time where samples required clearance and approval to be used in sample-based music, the album is layered heavily with elements providing space and depth to levels of complexity previously unheard. Fear of a Black Planet‘s production team, The Bomb Squad, worked tirelessly to bring their signature sound to the album. As Rolling Stone’s Christopher Weingarten said in an interview late last year with leading Public Enemy MC Chuck D, it was one of the…
“most sonically adventurous and politically stirring records of all time.”
Examples of some of the known samples, these from the 20th track on the album “Fight The Power”. Bomb Squad producer Hank Shocklee claimed in an interview this year there are still many more samples he’s never spoken of.
Within the first week of release, the album sold more than a million copies, coming in at number 10 on Billboard’s Top Pop Albums chart. Commenting on several racially and politically engaging topics was the goal of the album, and the track that said it best was “Fight The Power.” The deep rhymes and intense verbage used by Chuck in revolutionary poetry made the track not only what the group became known for, but also their critically acclaimed anthem.
Used by director Spike Lee for his film Do The Right Thing, who also filmed this music video, this track alone could be used to describe this legendary album. Fear of a Black Planet was later listed as Rolling Stone’s 300th greatest record of all time.
For over 30 years, Flavor Flav has remained a beloved beacon of fun within the hip-hop community. Beginning his career with Public Enemy in the late 1980s, fans fell in love with the enthusiastic rapper and hype man. The symbolic clock neck pieces he wears have always been a part of his uniform, even when he crossed over into reality television in the early 2000s. During a recent visit to Harvard University, the adored MC gifted the school with his famous clock chain.
Flav spent much of Tuesday meeting with staff and students at the Ivy League school. Scholars were left with an unforgettable experience as Flav read Emily Dickinson’s 1896 poem “A Clock Stopped.” In “Flavorful” fashion, the 64-year-old hilariously recited the poem, even finding a way to tie it into his iconic timepiece. “I sound like I graduated from Harvard, and I haven’t even went to school here,” he told the room of onlookers.
He then completed the reading of the poem by generously handing off his famous piece of jewelry. Professors Henry Louis Gates and Tommie Shelby were present to receive the gift, which the Hip Hop Archive Research Institute will now house. The school established the classroom exhibit in 2002, serving as a museum of sorts for those studying rap culture. Now, a piece of Public Enemy history will be available for all to view. In addition to his lecture and generous donation, Flav volunteered at the Harvard Square Homeless Shelter. He shared images from his busy day on Instagram, which showed him in the shelter’s kitchen and meeting people around the bustling campus.
Flav was also joined by DJ Stretch Armstrong, Lupe Fiasco, and the former wife of the late Muhammad Ali, Khaliah Ali. The visit is an excellent action for Flav, who announced in October that he’d celebrated two years of sobriety. At the height of his addiction, he was spending upwards of $2,000 daily on drugs. These days, it appears the “Flavor of Love” star is in great spirits and eager to reach a younger audience. Hopefully, Harvard opening their doors to Flav is a sign of more visits from him.
Flavor Flav was recently a guest lecturer at Harvard University. During his guest tenure at the Ivy League, Flav lectured on hip-hop culture and history. Before stepping off campus, he donated one of his famous clocks to the university. Flavor Flav was a guest lecturer at Harvard University on April 4. He also visited the […]
Trophy season is pressing forward, and Flavor Flav looked to be enjoying himself at the 2023 iHeartRadio Music Awards. The rich and famous descended on the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles to watch their peers’ performances and to learn who would take home the gold. It’s a reunion—or first meeting—for many, as stars, too, have celebrities that they admire. Flav is a Hip Hop icon who was excited to be on the red carpet, and he told Billboard that attending award shows will “never get old to me.”
“It’s always gonna be new, every time I do it,” he added. The reporter wanted to know who the Public Enemy icon was most excited to see. “Let me tell you something, man. I want to see Lenny Kravitz, I’m a big fan of Lenny Kravitz.” However, the “American Woman” singer took a backseat to Flav’s fanning over Taylor Swift. He even opened his jacket to show off his shirt that read, “Come Back Stronger Than a ’90s Trend.” It’s a lyric from Swift’s song, “Willow.”
That wasn’t the only reporter Flav was bragging about Taylor Swift to. Elsewhere, he revealed he’s working on new music and will soon return to television. It’s unclear if he’ll once again be looking for love on a dating show, but we’re sure it’ll be captivating. Then, he once again showed off his shirt and spoke about his admiration of Swift. “Always love Taylor Swift’s music,” he said before admitting to being a Swiftie. “I’m here to support her! I’m here to support my girl.”
Taylor Swift & Flavor Flav Become Besties
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 27: (FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY) (L-R) Taylor Swift and Flavor Flav attend the 2023 iHeartRadio Music Awards at Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California on March 27, 2023. Broadcasted live on FOX. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for iHeartRadio)
To prove that he’s dedicated, Flavor Flav sang “Bad Blood” but switched up the lyrics ever so slightly. “‘Good blood!’ I ain’t got no bad blood today! I got the good blood, you know what I’m saying! Word up! But yeah, I wanna meet her, too. One day.” And just like that, Flav spoke it into reality. While at the iHeartRadio Music Awards, he got his wish, and Taylor even posed for a selfie. The smile on Flav’s face says it all. Check out his red carpet moments above.
There are an innumerable number of rappers in the game with songs and discography undervalued as Flavor Flav. But, how many veterans in Hip-Hop hold a drawn-out stable career as Flav has? His name alone instigates buzz on social media exchanges. So I ask again, how many veterans stretched out to various trades and managed to monetize as an entertainer? Public Enemy‘s hypeman’s rise to fame in 1985 became the start of an understated rapper in Hip-Hop. We’ve curated 10 of his best songs and ranked them deservedly.
#10. Michael Jackson
Shortly after Michael Jackson died in 2009, fans and artists were hurt and angry at the news. Some artists went on to rant via radio interviews, and some placed the death blow on songs. When Flavor Flav dropped “Michael Jackson” 4 years or so later. He delivered his own artistic expression by inserting the interview of MJ’s doctor to offset the track. If you’ll recall, Dr. Conrad said in the interview, “I don’t feel guilty, because I didn’t do anything wrong.”
His response to the public accusation escalated the hate enormously, even for the American rapper. This song is one of my favorite songs by Flavor Flav. The high-pitch tone in the beginning, to a calm resonance in his first verse, is swift. Just makes you feel the wrath of his emotions. But also noting Flavor’s ability to rap on behalf of Michael Jackson, and direct blame to the doctor in a double-gaited fashion.
#9. Step Back
Media Creature Music / 12×12 rewarded Hip-Hop listeners with a compilation album Hip Hop Classiks in 2018. And in it, had one of Flavor Flav’s most groovy songs from his discography. The label collected songs from E-40, Ms. Toi, G Luv, and many more elite veterans. ‘Step Back’ is an exemplary sound from the sound in the late 2000s. With instrumentals tugging from Indian dancing style elements, and repetitive tempos every time he drops a bar. The chorus is reminiscent of Lil Jon’s “Get Low” house party sound. It takes me back to an underrated Hip-Hop sound that is missing currently.
#8. Two Wrongs
Now this song was not favorable or popular when it was released. Though I don’t blame them, 2006 listeners weren’t focused on a body of work. Only songs on the charts. It was a year where the 50 Cents, Jay Zs and Lil Waynes were all releasing records that sell faster than takeaway. It was go time season in 06′. Two Wrongs offers a laid-back aura for the listener. His vocals are shining through on this record. And what I love about this track, is it gives the listener a breather from the hardcore songs. The album is Flavor Flav’s only solo studio album, and he delivered it successfully.
#7. I Ain’t Scared
On ‘I Ain’t Scared’, Flavor distanced himself from Public Enemy‘s shadow. The rapper delivers a classic that leeches on his playful energy, and smooth vocals. In this song, he addresses the public on the many things he isn’t afraid to do. Most notably, he addresses the “Flavor of Love” dating show that was released in the same year of his Flavor Flav debut solo project. “I ain’t scared to do another dating show, but I ain’t really trying to,” he explains in the song. “I’m ready to spread my wings and go down other avenues,” and he fulfilled that wish.
#6. Let It Show
The rapper surprised a lot of fans with this intro track. The vulnerability aspect that set the tone of the album shocked me too. ‘Let It Show’ is about embracing life’s moments and going with the flow of one’s feelings. “If you feel like showin some love tonight,” and he continues “Let it show, let it show.” Flavor admits he won’t shy away from showing his loved ones how he feels. “Take it from Flav because,” he sings, “I’m not afraid to let it show.”
#5. Flavor Man
Hypeman Flav popped out on this record. On ‘Flavor Man’ the rapper is his own hype man when he says “back with the hottest track.” The song rose on the charts after being a theme song for his ‘Flavor of Love’ dating show. His frenzied energy and the catchy hook snuck in might overshadow the slick bars he laid on this beat. The complex Bill Gates bar scheme he runs down over in the first half of the second verse is powerful. Just to emphasize the potentness of his secret sauce-the flavor man indeed.
#4. Platnum
Flavor Flav’s solo debut project has countless potential hits. Platnum should have been the rollout lead single, and paired up with a video would’ve lit up. The rawness and hunger from his delivery are commendable. Flav’s beat selection blends with his flow on the hook. But when it quickly picks up as he raps elevates the song to a 10/10. Platnum is one of his most beautifully composed singles ever.
#3. Shake The Room
Years later, Flavour Flav is recruited by Dj Premier and Bumpy Knuckles for the solid commercial-sounding “Shake The Room.” Premier’s production style on this song embedded his place in Hip-Hop for some time. Bumpy’s flow resonates with the rigid beat structure that bites off some old-school elements. On the surface, the trio is an uncanny meeting, but they come together to deliver a hardcore rap song.
#2. UNGA BUNGA BUNGA
Shoutout to the top series Breaking Bad for fusing this song in one of Jesse scenes. In a visual way interpolates cartoon characters and things that the youth of that time had no clue about. You see it with “but I’m chillin with Magilla.” Which references the fictional gorilla character on the cartoon show from the 60s. Or the line “but up in Harlem at the wet shop,” referencing a Barbershop. The rest of the song stays on theme and it’s why the track is his top 2.
#1. Shake Your Booty
Flavor’s best song “Shake Your Booty” is punched with concise lyricism and a gelled chorus. In his first verse, he pays homage to the late PAC and biggie. He says, “Flipped your wig, on top of the world like ‘Pac and Big.”And what’s insane about this line, is how it transitions to the next song on the project. Which in detail, relives the brutal murders of the late legends. Flav ran this song with heavy bars on all the 3 long verses. This is arguably his best work yet.
Do you agree with this arrangement of Flavor Flav’s best songs? Let us know in the comments.
In 1959, William Jonathan Drayton, better known to the world as Flavor Flav, was born in the world in NYC. Flav is the former hypeman of the iconic Rock N’ Roll Hall Of Fame Hip-Hop group Public Enemy.
Growing up on Freeport, Long Island is where A young Flavor developed his love for music, teaching himself to play the piano, drums, and guitar on his own. In Long Island, a young adult, Flav met Chuck Ridenhour, who later became known as Chuck D, the frontman of Public Enemy. The two linked at Adelphi University on the Island, where the two attended college and learned about each other’s love for Hip Hop.
As one of the founding members of PE, Flav was there in 1984 when the song “Public Enemy #1” was recorded, the first known track by the group. In 1986, the crew signed with Rick Rubin on Def Jam. However, Rubin did not initially want to sign Flav because he didn’t understand his role in the group.
Ever since PE’s debut album Yo! Bum Rush The Show, Flav was the hype jester to the ultra-serious, politically charged group, including Chuck D, Terminator X, and a security force known as the S1Ws. Songs such as “Fight The Power,” “911 Is A Joke”, and “I Can’t Do Nothin’ For Ya Man” featured the comedic darts of Flav, which brought a balance to PE.
Drugs and domestic issues hindered Flav for a short while during his career. However, he bounced back into the public eye as a reality show pioneer, with shows like Surreal Life and The Flavor Of Love breaking ground in reality TV. Earlier this year, Chuck D announced that Flavor Flav was indefinitely fired from the group for his response to PE publicly endorsing Sen. Bernie Sanders in the 2020 Presidential race.
Big ups to Flav on his born day and TheSource.com wishes the Flavor Man many more!
Flavor Flav said he spent a total of $5M over the course of six years on drugs at the height of his addiction.
Flavor Flav celebrated two years of sobriety in October but in a recent interview, he detailed the worst point of his addiction. At the time, he spent over $2,000 a day to keep up with his habit for over half a decade.
LOS ANGELES – DECEMBER 17: Rapper Flavor Flav arrives at the 9th Annual Multicultural Prism Awards at the Henry Fonda “Music Box” Theatre on December 17, 2004 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Flav sat down with Akademiks for his On The Record where he opened up about his battle against addiction during their interview. The Public Enemy co-founder revealed that he “never really let people know exactly” the extent of how bad things got, such as the amount of money he spent on substances.
“There was a time that I was spending $2,400 to $2,600 a day… for six years straight. You do the math,” he said. “That’s how much I spent on drugs.”
He later admitted that he spent $1M annually on drugs at the worst points of his addiction. He was also selling at the same time, though he would dip into his own stash.
CHICAGO, IL – DECEMBER 05: Chuck D and Flavor Flav of Public Enemy perform at House Of Blues Chicago on December 5, 2012 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Daniel Boczarski/Redferns via Getty Images)
“I ain’t gonna lie, I sold a lot. But I was my best customer … I had a lot of money at the time too. I was just doing the wrong things with my money,” Flav recalled.
In 2020, he decided to get clean and began his journey toward sobriety, which he has since maintained.
“I guess God wanted me to live. And he knows that I’m a mouthpiece to the world,” he said. “So, I feel that God let me live through that. So that way, I could teach people about the mistakes that I made. And hopefully, they won’t make them later on in life.”
Public Enemy hypeman Flavor Flav joined DJ Akademiks on his Off The Record podcast and spoke about his years long crack addiction along with other subjects that he mentioned in his upcoming book, Flavor Flav: The Icon The Memoir.
Flav said, “There was a time that I was spending $2,400 to $2,600 a day for six years straight. You do the math. And that’s how much I spent on drugs.”
