Before their commercial breakthrough in 2003, The Black Eyed Peas were making a very different sound from the catchy infectious pop that most fans associate with them today.
Formed in 1995, The BEP’s original tribe of best friends will.i.am, Taboo and apl.de.ap released their debut album Behind The Front in 1998. Back in those days, the group’s style was solidified on making classic and socially conscious hip hop in the same vein as artists such as Talib Kweli, and A Tribe Called Quest. Soulstress Kim Hill was a frequent vocalist for the group and singers such as Macy Gray and Dawn Beckman were featured on the debut, as well as Esthero, De La Soul and Wyclef Jean who all appeared on sophmore Bridging The Gap.
In 2002, Fergie of course joined the group and the overwhelming chart success of ‘Where Is The Love’ ultimately led them into a poppier direction and chart domination, selling millions of records worldwide and becoming one of the best selling groups of all time.
We are pleased to say though that the original Black Eyed Peas trio have since remerged, encorporating their earlier uniqueness on recent tracks ‘Yesterday’ and the socially charged. ‘Street Livin.
Whilst we wait in anticipation for a full project from this trio, we take it back to this groovy number released in 2000. ‘Weekends’ featuring Esthero was released as the lead single from their second album.
The Peas will also be making a reunion on our TV screens this weekend as will.i.am has drafted in his band mates as advisors for Team Will on The Voice UK’s knockout stage.
Are you excited for the group’s return? Let us know on Twitter @CelebMix.