Musiq House

Biz Markie's inclination toward juvenile humor and his fondness for goofy, tuneless, half-sung choruses camouflaged his true talents as a freestyle rhymer. The Biz may not have been able to translate his wild rhyming talents to tape, but what he did record was worthwhile in its own way. With his silly humor and inventive, sample-laden productions, he proved that Hip Hop could be funny and melodic, without sacrificing its street credibility. A native of New York, Biz (born Marcel Hall) first came to prominence in the early 80s, when he began rapping at Manhattan nightclubs like the Funhouse and the Roxy and following the legendary Juice Crew all over the country. Biz met producer Marley Marl in 1985, and began working as a human beatbox for Marl-connected acts MC Shan and, later, Roxanne Shante. He also recorded his first set of demos, and by 1988, had signed with Cold Chillin'. This album was original released as a single vinyl EP only. It is not until now that these songs have been collected in their entirety and available for the first time ever as a complete CD. In addition, Traffic Entertainment Group and Cold Chillin' have resurrected seven live songs previously never ever heard anywhere except for that original performance from Worchester MA, 1987. This beautifully packaged CD contains extended artwork (complete with fold out poster) that features never before viewed original photography from the achieves of George Du Bose, acclaimed pop-art photographer and designer. Du Bose also lends extensive commentary to the liner notes that feature quotes and stories straight out the mouths of Hip Hop royalty and Cold Chillin' heads, Fly Tyrone Williams, Mr. Magic and MC Shan. This one is a MUST for any fan of any age of any genre of music.