On this date in 1988, Public Enemy released their second LP It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back following up their debut album, which was released just a little over a year earlier.
The album, which was released by Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin’s Def Jam Recordings, was recorded primarily in the legendary Chung King Studios, while other sessions included Greene St. and Sabella Studios in NYC. Production was done exclusively by Hank Shocklee and The Bomb Squad. By August of 1999, the album went platinum and ranks among the top 500 albums of all time, according to Rolling Stone magazine.
Public Enemy, which includes frontman Chuck D., Flavor Flav, Terminator X, Professor Griff, and the S1Ws, were pioneers of the revolutionary rap sound, making songs like “Rebel Without A Pause”, “Black Steel In The Hour Of Chaos”, and “Rebel Without A Pause” prototype tracks for the conscious movement in Hip Hop.
Salute to Chuck D., Flav, Professor Griff, and the rest of the crew for bringing Hip Hop fans this classic that will forever hold a place in the illustrious history of this culture.
Check out the video below that was in heavy rotation during the album’s apex. It even features a special guest appearance from MC Lyte as an investigative reporter. Check it out!
Chuck D, born Carlton Douglas Ridenhour, is a pivotal figure in hip-hop. He is best known as the leader of the influential group Public Enemy. His powerful lyrics, social commentary, and activism have made him one of the genre’s most respected voices. According to CelebrityNetWorth, as of 2024, Chuck D’s net worth stands at $14 million, a testament to his enduring legacy and impact in the music industry and beyond. This financial accomplishment mirrors a career that has shaped the trajectory of hip-hop music and engaged with critical social issues. This further made Chuck D a cultural icon and a successful artist.
Revolutionizing Hip-Hop With Public Enemy
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)
Chuck D’s journey into hip-hop royalty began with the formation of Public Enemy in the mid-1980s. Further, known for their politically charged music and radical messages, Public Enemy, under Chuck D’s leadership, released groundbreaking albums such as It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back and Fear of a Black Planet. These works elevated the group to legendary status and pushed the boundaries of what rap music could convey. They also blend potent political messages with innovative soundscapes. His voice became synonymous with resistance and empowerment, influencing generations of artists and activists.
Beyond Music: Activism & Influence
NEW YORK – 1988: (Clockwise from bottom left) Flavor Flav, Professor Griff, Terminator X. S1W and Chuck D of the rap group Public Enemy pose for a portrait in a studio. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Chuck D’s influence also extends far beyond the confines of music. He is a vocal advocate for social justice, frequently speaking out on issues such as racism, police brutality, and the importance of education. His activism is interwoven with his music, creating a powerful platform for change. Additionally, Chuck D has also embraced various media, from hosting radio shows to authoring books to disseminating his messages. This further establishes his role as a multifaceted leader in both the entertainment and political spheres.
Legacy & Continuing Impact
NEW ORLEANS, LA – APRIL 25: Chuck D (L) and Flavor Flav of Public Enemy perform during the 2014 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival at Fair Grounds Race Course on April 25, 2014 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images)
The legacy of Chuck D and Public Enemy is immeasurable, not only in the realm of hip-hop but also in their contribution to the broader cultural and political landscape. His work has inspired countless artists to use their platforms for advocacy, and his efforts to preserve and promote the history of hip-hop underscore his commitment to the genre’s integrity and future. As an educator, speaker, and artist, Chuck D continues influencing and engaging with new generations, ensuring his place as a perpetual force in the music industry and beyond.
Flavor Flav, born William Jonathan Drayton Jr., is an American musician, rapper, actor, and television personality. He became a hip-hop icon as a member of Public Enemy, one of the most formidable rap groups of the late 20th century. According to Wealthy Gorilla, as of 2024, Flavor Flav’s net worth is estimated at $2 million, a testament to his enduring influence and career longevity in the entertainment industry. This figure encapsulates a career that has spanned several decades, during which Flavor Flav has not only left his mark on music but has also ventured into reality TV, business, and acting, showcasing his versatility and ability to adapt to the changing landscapes of fame and entertainment.
From Public Enemy To Reality TV Star
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)
Flavor Flav’s journey to fame began in the mid-1980s when he co-founded Public Enemy. It is a group known for its politically charged lyrics and powerful social commentary, encapsulated in albums like It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back and Fear of a Black Planet. Flav’s role as the hype man, known for his clock necklace and energetic persona, complemented Chuck D’s potent lyrics, making Public Enemy a distinctive voice in hip-hop. Their influence extended beyond music, contributing significantly to the social movements of the time. However, Flavor Flav’s career trajectory unexpectedly turned in the 2000s when he ventured into reality TV. His appearances on shows such as The Surreal Lifeand Flavor of Loveintroduced him to a new generation of fans, showcasing his flamboyant personality and knack for entertainment beyond music.
Entrepreneurial Ventures & Acting
Flavor Flav, standing with rapper Tupac Shakur, greets fans backstage during the. 1989 American Music Awards, Los Angeles, California, January 30, 1989. (Photo by Clarence Gatson/Gado/Getty Images)
Additionally, Flavor Flav has explored various business ventures, including launching Flavor Flav’s Chicken & Ribs restaurant in Michigan. Although his business endeavors have met with mixed success, they underscore his willingness to diversify his career portfolio. His acting credits include appearances on several television shows and movies, further illustrating his multifaceted talent. Though not as defining as his music and reality TV careers, these roles have contributed to his net worth and public profile.
Legacy & Influence
LOS ANGELES, CA – JANUARY 26: Flavor Flav attends the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards at Staples Center on January 26, 2020 in Los Angeles, CA. (Photo by David Crotty/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)
Flavor Flav’s legacy in the music industry is indelible. His work with Public Enemy pushed the boundaries of hip-hop, addressing issues of race, inequality, and justice that are still relevant today. His transition into television broadened his appeal and showcased his adaptability, earning him a place in the pantheon of entertainment personalities who have successfully bridged music and television. Despite controversies and challenges, Flavor Flav remains a figure of significant influence, with a career that continues to inspire discussions about the intersections of music, culture, and fame.
In 1959, William Jonathan Drayton, better known to the world as Flavor Flav, was born in NYC. Flav is the former hypeman of the iconic Rock N’ Roll Hall Of Fame Hip-Hop group Public Enemy.
Growing up in Freeport, Long Island, a young Flavor developed his love for music, teaching himself to play the piano, drums, and guitar independently. 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!
In the movie One Night Stay, Marcus (Stephen Bishop) seemingly has it all — money, a mansion, a beautiful wife — until a one-night stand with Jessica (Iyana Halley) goes horribly awry. Instead of leaving Marcus’ palatial mansion, obsessive Jessica finds herself a place to hide, making it her residence. Marcus and Milan (LeToya Luckett) go about their life with no idea they have an unwelcome houseguest living with them.
Developed by Jenna Frank and Zach Hunter under the Beautiful Orchid Media label, One Night Stay was written by Curtis Cardwell. The film was directed by Rick S. Mordecon and premiered on BET+ on January 4th, 2024.
The Source had the opportunity to chat with the cast about Hip Hop 50.
Hip hop just celebrated its 50th anniversary. What was the moment that you guys fell in love with Hip-Hop?
Stephen Bishop: I fell in love with Hip-Hop, listening to Sugarhill Gang. That’s when I fell in love. “Rapper’s Delight.” I listened to it, it had to be 40, 50 times back to back to back. It was on an album, and I sat in front of the record player and kept putting it back, kept putting it back. Trying to learn the words, and I’m still in love with Hip-Hop. As you can see, I’m wearing a Redman shirt. I listen to Hip-Hop 95% of the time when I’m listening to music.
This is The Source magazine, right? Little known fact. I was Unsigned Hype in January of 2000. In the Source Magazine. So I am a Hip-Hop kid. I am a Hip-Hop head. Hip-Hop has been such a beautiful theme, background music through my life. No matter what I’m doing, it’s always been there. Look what it’s done to the world. Sugarhill Gang is what made me fall in love with Hip-Hop.
Robert Riley: “I want to rock right now, I’m Rob Base and came to get down. I’m not internationally known, but I’m known to rock a microphone. ‘Cause I get stupid, I mean outrageous. Stay away from me if you’re contagious. No, I’m not a loser, to be an MC is what I choose-a.” Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock “It Takes Two.”
Iyana Halley: For me, my parents, especially my dad loved Hip-Hop growing up. I remember being a kid, LL Cool J and all these people would be playing on the TV. I’m singing these songs, I probably had no business singing at all. It’s stemmed from my parents. Even to this day, I’m obsessed with Nicki Minaj, and those types of — especially female rappers is my favorite. I love Hip-Hop.
Essence Atkins: For me, I was probably 18 or 19 and it was “Burn Hollywood Burn. I smell a riot going on, first your guilty now they’re gone yeah. I’ll check out a movie, but it’ll take a Black one to move me.” Public Enemy.
Stephen Bishop: It’s amazing man. I just thought had another thought. Sugarhill Gang made me fall in love with it, but I have to give credit to Nas for inspiring me to become a writer and really put my poetry, which I was already writing to music. He showed me that it wasn’t — Nas was different. There was a lot of rappers, but Nas was a poet. His writing and his voice was another instrument in the music. If you took the music away, there was still a rhythm to his voice and to his writing. Sugarhill Gang made me fall in love, Nas made me become obsessed with the art form of it.
What were you in The Source for? For Unsigned Hype? Stephen Bishop: Riggs Morales was there at the time, and Carlito. They got one of my demos and it was more of a spotlight, a feature of an up and coming artist who was unsigned at the time. Look out for this, it was the one with DMX on the cover. January 2000.
In Hip Hop, conscious rap is a subgenre that stands out as a powerful force for change and introspection. Beyond the glitz and glamor of mainstream narratives, conscious rap serves as a resonant voice. Over the years, certain rappers have harnessed it as a tool to address and unapologetically tackle societal issues. Likewise, it has helped spark important conversations and challenge the status quo.
Certainly, all kinds of music can influence listeners or evoke certain emotions. However, almost no other kind of music exerts as much positive influence on its listeners as conscious rap. Emphatically, artists use their lyrical prowess to illuminate the shadows of social injustice and amplify the voices of the unheard. Undoubtedly, the subgenre is one of the noblest and most substantial genres of music out there. It goes without saying more people should be listening.
The Emergence Of Conscious Rap
Conscious rap came to light in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. It emerged as a response to the prevailing themes in mainstream Hip Hop at the time—often glorifying violence, materialism, and hedonism. Contrarily, conscious rap sought to address social and political issues while promoting a more positive and enlightened perspective.
In the late ‘80s, artists like Public Enemy began incorporating socially conscious themes into their music. With their music, they explicitly addressed racial inequality and systemic issues. Tracks like “Don’t Believe the Hype” and “Fight the Power” set the tone for future conscious rap songs. By the early ‘90s, conscious rap saw the rise of groups like A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul. These acts significantly contributed to the movement. Notably, they did so by infusing their lyrics with intellectual and positive messages.
The Genre Picks Up Speed
Subsequently, introspective artists such as KRS-One, Common, Tupac Shakur, Mos Def, and Talib Kweli rose to prominence. The golden era of conscious rap is often associated with these acts, which began making waves in the early ‘90s. They focused on lyrical depth, storytelling, and raising awareness about societal challenges. In the ‘90s, other acts like Lauryn Hill, Arrested Development, and Queen Latifah also contributed to and left a mark on conscious rap.
In the 2000s and beyond, artists like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Logic, among others, continued the tradition, using their platforms to speak on pressing social issues. Since the ‘80s, this subgenre of rap has evolved and progressively become more popular, and it is currently at a very good place. As a matter of fact, some of the most prominent Hip Hop acts right now make conscious rap music.
The Sound Of Conscious Rap
Perhaps the best defining feature of this genre is its commitment to addressing socially relevant and thought-provoking themes. Throughout its history, artists within this rap subgenre have used their lyrics to explore issues including inequality, poverty, and other societal challenges. In essence, artists express their perspectives on political issues, activism, and the impact of governmental policies on marginalized communities.
Furthermore, the lyrical content of conscious rap tends to exhibit intellectual depth. Artists employ sophisticated wordplay, metaphorical language, and complex rhyme schemes to convey their messages. Significantly, this approach encourages listeners to engage critically with the content. Additionally, in contrast to some mainstream Hip Hop, conscious rap artists encourage self-empowerment, resilience, and social change.
They strive to inspire listeners to think critically, pursue education, and take positive actions in their communities. Musically, this type of rap may draw influence from jazz and soul. It incorporates melodic and rhythmic elements that add depth to the overall sound. This can create a more sophisticated musical backdrop for the socially conscious lyrics.
Conclusion
Undoubtedly, conscious rap catalyzes social awareness and positive transformation. It is a dynamic and impactful force within the broader landscape of Hip Hop music. It also remains a dynamic and evolving subgenre. By adapting to contemporary issues, the subgenre provides a platform for artists to engage with their audiences on a deeper level.
“A lot of people been asking me, ‘When is Public Enemy going to reunite?’” Flav said. “We never broke up to reunite. We just took a long break.”
“There wasn’t no beef,” he added. “I love my partner, man. And I know he loves me, too. You know what I’m saying? Sometimes, you know, you don’t see eye to eye on everything.”
Flavor Flav and Chuck D had a brief reunion to perform at the iHeartRadio Music Festival back in September. To be fair, it also hasn’t been that long since Public Enemy dropped a new album, as their last one was in 2020 with What You Gonna Do When The Grid Goes Down?. During their recent concert, they even premiered “Everywhere Man,” a new single that they have planned for a future release.
“One thing about me and Chuck, we always manage to pull it back together to see eye to eye and to keep moving forward,” Flavor Flav pointed out about their specific dynamic.
Check out the clip of Flavor Flav discussing how he feels about Chuck D above.
Public Enemy is one of the most revolutionary early hip hop acts of all time. The group stands beside the likes of N.W.A. and X-Clan for their politically charged rhetoric and lyrics. With critically acclaimed hits such as “Fight The Power” and “911 Is A Joke,” the group is a significant influence on rap acts today. Though several members have come and gone throughout the years, co-founders Chuck D and Flavor Flav have been ever-present forces.
Public Enemy’s first four LPs have all received platinum or gold certification from the RIAA, and they are widely recognized as the most acclaimed discography of any hip-hop act, praised by critics and fans. As a group, Public Enemy was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. Further, the group received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 62nd Grammy Awards ceremony. Since their formation in the late 1980s, each member of the group has gone on to achieve massive success.
Terminator X
CHICAGO – JULY 1990: DJ Terminator X and rapper Flavor Flav of Public Enemy signs autographs and greets fans backstage prior to their performance at the U.I.C. Pavilion in Chicago, Illinois in July 1990. (Photo By Raymond Boyd/Getty Images)
Terminator X served as the original turntablist for Public Enemy, crafting iconic scratches and beat selections for the group. Unfortunately, a 1994 motorcycle accident left him permanently injured and unable to focus on the group full-time. In 1998, the DJ retired to his home, where he continued to raise African black ostriches. After leaving the group, X took a step back from the limelight, choosing to live outside the public view.
As a founding member of Public Enemy, X received honors alongside the group, including their Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Further, the group credited him on their 2015 release, “Man Plans God Laughs.” The former DJ married Robin Dugger in 2018.
DJ Lord
LOS ANGELES, CA – APRIL 18: DJ Lord of Public Enemy performs onstage during the 28th Annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on April 18, 2013 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Kane/WireImage)
After Terminator X left the group in 1998, the remaining members of Public Enemy began a search for his replacement. After witnessing his set at a Vestax Battle in 1999, Professor Griff, an on-again-off-again member of Public Enemy, recruited DJ Lord. Lord has since appeared as the group’s full-time DJ, taking on the turntable at subsequent world tours and reunion shows. In recent years, DJ Lord has collaborated with other rap groups, including 2MP, Prophets of Rage, and Cypress Hill. In 2019, he joined Cypress Hill on tour, maintaining the boards and taking on a solo set before the headlining act.
Professor Griff
Professor Griff is easily the most controversial member of the group. The so-called Minister of Information for Public Enemy has been embroiled in controversy over the years due to his homophobic and antisemitic statements, causing him to have an on-again-off-again relationship with the PE brand. Following his departure from Public Enemy, Griff continued his solo spoken word career. He also penned several books espousing his philosophy and knowledge. In 2017, Professor Griff married Kansas City femcee Solé.
Flavor Flav
NEW YORK – 1989: Rapper Flavor Flav of the rap group ‘Public Enemy’ at the filming of a video for their song ‘Fight The Power’ directed by Spike Lee in 1989 in New York, New York. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Flavor Flav is a household name due to his larger-than-life persona, eccentric style, and tenure as a reality television star. Like many rap pioneers, Flav has invested his hip hop wealth into a host of thriving businesses, including numerous restaurants across the country. The Public Enemy founder also starred in television ventures, including The Surreal Life, Strange Love, Flavor Of Love, I Love New York, and I Love Money. Flavor Flav was also the subject of a Comedy Central roast in 2007.
In 2020, Public Enemy was scheduled to perform at a campaign rally for Bernie Sanders, without Flavor Flav. Flav’s attorneys reportedly sent the hip hop group a cease and desist letter, alleging that they could not utilize the Public Enemy brand without Flav’s consent, which he would not provide for the event. Following this, lawyers from both parties presented a series of litigious arguments, ultimately leading to Chuck D allegedly expelling Flav from the group entirely.
Chuck D
Shortly after the feud, Chuck D revealed that Flavor Flav’s firing was a hoax, designed to stir up media attention. The apparent hoax was intended as a commentary on media disinformation, according to the Public Enemy founders. During the legal discussions, it was revealed that Chuck D is the sole owner of the trademark and title “Public Enemy,” aligning with his de facto leadership position in the group. Despite this, they continued to create music together as a team.
In 2019, Chuck D received over $1 million in unpaid royalty money from Terrordome Music and Reach Music Publishing after pursuing legal action against them. The rapper has also appeared in numerous television outings, feature verses with other rappers, and political events. Most recently, Chuck released a four-part docuseries on PBS titled Fight The Power: How Hip Hop Changed The World. The PBS series aired in February 2023 to mostly positive reviews. The Public Enemy founder has remained a political rap figurehead for generations and left an indelible mark on history through his contributions to culture and art.
Public Enemy is honoring their 35th anniversary with a unique and special release. This release coincides with the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, adding to the significance of the occasion. With exclusive bonus tracks, new liner notes, and iconic artwork, this limited edition vinyl is a must-have for hip-hop enthusiasts. Public Enemy Celebrates The Big 3-5 […]
In honor of Hip Hop’s monumental 50th year, the stage is set for an extraordinary musical extravaganza. Public Enemy and Ice-T, two iconic names in the industry, are poised to headline “The National Celebration of Hip Hop.” This once-in-a-lifetime concert will unfold on October 6th and 7th, 2023, at West Potomac Park on the historic National Mall in Washington, D.C.
A roster of legendary performers is primed to ignite the event, including a special DJ Hurricane Beastie Boys Tribute Set featuring esteemed guests. The lineup reads like a who’s who of hip hop history: Kurtis Blow, Kid ‘n Play, Soulsonic Force, Roxanne Shante, CL Smooth, Melle Mel and Scorpio, The Sugarhill Gang, and many more luminaries. Additional artist announcements are on the horizon.
“We are honored to continue to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop against the backdrop of America’s Capitol with a free event for everyone. I can’t wait to get on stage and do our thing,” said Flavor Flav
“Hip hop is beyond, not just a musical genre,” says Chuck D. “It’s a cultural movement that has dominated art, fashion, politics, poetry, academia, film and every corner of the world for the past 50 years. This National Celebration brings it all together in one place for the people, by the people.”
“We are coming to the National Mall itself to bring you authentic Hip Hop for the 50th celebration!” exclaimed Ice-T.
General admission is free but requires pre-registration, with sign-ups commencing on August 23rd at 10 am ET on NationalCelebrationofHipHop.com. The demand is expected to be fierce, as tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. For those seeking an elevated experience, VIP party and travel packages will be available for purchase, with exclusive pre-parties and afterparties kicking off the celebrations.
The event is a collaboration between Chasing Live and Mickey Bentson’s The Art of Rap, which features the influential hip-hop pioneer Ice-T. Recognized as a cornerstone of the genre’s inception, Ice-T’s involvement adds to the event’s historical significance, honoring the evolution of hip-hop over five decades.
