The Source Magazine Remembers Whodini’s Ecstasy Two Years Later

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On this date two years ago, John “Ecstasy” Fletcher of the legendary rap duo Whodinia passed away suddenly in the presence of his family. Ecstasy was only 56 years old. As a member of Whodini alongside his partners Jalil and Grandmaster D, Ecstasy stood out as one half of Whodini’s smooth, mature lyricism coupled with their unique fashion style.

“The African and Native American ancestors have gathered around and chosen this day, during the Winter Solstice, Dec 23rd, 2020 to call upon a most endeared, generous, and sincere soul who graced The World’s heart through performance, hip-hop, family, children and grandchildren,” his family said in a statement on the date of his passing. “John ‘Ecstasy’ Fletcher was a beloved man, the life partner to Deltonia and ex-husband to Carla, twin brother to Joseph, artist, friend, and lifetime performing partner to Jalil. 

“Please send love and prayers to our family, and with open hearts we ask the ancestors to cover his soul in peace and tranquility. Play his music if it moves you, and know he’ll be hearing you on his way home this day, Dec 23rd.”

The post The Source Magazine Remembers Whodini’s Ecstasy Two Years Later appeared first on The Source.

Today in Hip-Hop History: Whodini Dropped Their Self Titled Debut Album 39 Years Ago

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On this date in 1983, pioneering rap trio Whodini, who then was sans DJ Grandmaster D, released their self-titled debut album Whodini on the Jive Records imprint.

Produced primarily by Grammy-nominated British producer and composer Thomas Dolby, Whodini’s first album never really saw any commercial success, however, the album’s “Magic Wand” track did climb to #11 on the Dance Club Songs and number 45 on the Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs while the Willesden Dodges-produced track “The Haunted House of Rock” peaked at number 27 on the Dance Club Songs and number 55 on the Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs.

The eight-track album’s duration is less than 45 minutes, something that was virtually a no-no in all genres of music during the early 80s, however, as one of Hip Hop’s first-ever full-length albums, the duration for each song is extensively longer than the average Hip Hop song today.

Salute to Jalil, Ecstacy(RIP) and Grandmaster D for their timeless contribution to Hip Hop history!

The post Today in Hip-Hop History: Whodini Dropped Their Self Titled Debut Album 39 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.