The late-80s brainchild of Los Angeles DJs Matt Dike and Michael Ross, Delicious Vinyl is the minor label that became a major figure in the evolution of hip-hop, by championing acts that would crossover from the streets and bring an innovative stew of underground grooves to the masses.
<br /><br />Tone-Loc's "Wild Thing" and "Funky Cold Medina" were the first of three multi-platinum singles produced by Dike & Ross that launched the label.
<br /><br />Soon after Tone Loc, Dike and Ross produced Young MC (Marvin Young) and launched him to instant acclaim. Tracks like "Bust A Move" & "Know How" from 1989's Stone Cold Rhymin', were chart-topping hits worldwide.
<br /><br />After Matt Dike's departure in 1992, DV became the sole mission for co-founder Michael Ross. His pedigree at finding new talent, producing their work, and following the beats down the road less traveled, speaks for itself. His classic signings of The Brand New Heavies, The Pharcyde, Born Jamericans, Masta Ace, and The Whoridas, to name a few, continued to keep DV punching above its weight through the '90s.
<br /><br />In 1995, Delicious Vinyl released the Pharcyde's groundbreaking Labcabincalifornia, after which the outfit's lead MC, Fatlip (aka Derrick Stewart) struck out solo.
<br /><br />Ross stayed the course and ten years on, Fatlip's long-awaited debut album, The Loneliest Punk, has finally arrived: tracks like "What's Up Fatlip" and "Today's Your Day" showcase Fatlip's lyrical story telling prowess.
<br /><br />In 2006, Ross reunited The Brand New Heavies with original lead singer N'Dea Davenport. The new album Get Used To It is being featured in Starbucks stores while the band tours worldwide in support of the first single "I Don't Know Why (I Love You)".
<br /><br />In the history of innovative, thought provoking, and extremely funky underground hip-hop, Delicious Vinyl stands out for remaining independent and helping to shape the alternative-rap soundscape.
<br /><br />Today, Delicious Vinyl continues to rock a party right, from the rump-shaking, dancehall hits of Mr. Vegas to the funked-up, live soul of The Brand New Heavies. 2007 will mark the 20 year anniversary of this classic West Coast label.