Before Underworld, Hyde and Smith started out in 1979 on The Screen Gemz band while working together in a diner in the city of Cardiff, where both had been studying. In 1983 they recorded two albums for CBS Records with a new wave synthpop band whose name was a graphic squiggle, later entitled Freur.
In 1986 Hyde and Smith formed Underworld, after disbanding of Freur. They tried a more guitar-oriented funky electropop sound on their two albums released on Sire Records: Underneath the Radar (1987) and Change the Weather (1989). This initial lineup (also called Underworld Mk1) consisted of Karl Hyde, Rick Smith, Alfie Thomas, Bryn Burrows, Baz Allen and Pascal Consoli before sinking back into obscurity and disbanding in 1990.
British DJ Darren Emerson hooked up with Hyde and Smith in 1992 and helped them refine their sound into something more sleek and beat-oriented, yet still shot through with tinges of blues, rock and spoken-word streams of consciousness. After several releases on Junior Boy's Own as Lemon Interupt, the trio re-adopted the Underworld name in 1992. Two songs from this era are Rez and Spikee.
In addition to their music, Hyde and Smith are members of Tomato, a graphic design company which has done high-profile work for clients around the world as well as art for all of Underworld's releases. Hyde, along with former Freur keyboardist John Warwicker, has also published two typographic journals, Mmm... Skyscraper, I Love You (1994) and In The Belly Of Saint Paul (2003).
Their first full-length, dubnobasswithmyheadman, was released in 1994 to rave reviews and is still considered a landmark. It spawned several hit singles (Dark & Long, Cowgirl, Dirty Epic) and was followed a couple years later by the Born Slippy single.
The sophomore album Second Toughest in the Infants was released in 1996. This album showed Underworld maturing as a trio, mixing elements of techno, house, drum and bass and pop music to spectacular effect. The first track Juanita/Kiteless/To Dream of Love (three parts) is one of the longest songs recorded by Underworld, with a length of over 16 minutes.
In the same year they issued an EP Pearl's Girl, containing various mixes of the song Pearl's Girl and five new tracks (one of them is Cherry Pie, an early version of Rowla). Underworld's much-praised remixography also grew, including Björk, Saint Etienne, Simply Red, Massive Attack and Leftfield.
After licensing out a remix of Born Slippy (entitled Born Slippy .NUXX) for the 1996 cult classic film Trainspotting, Underworld gained instant worldwide fame and found themselves touring the world. Their fame continued to run high into the release of Beaucoup Fish in 1999. Five singles were released: Moaner, Push Upstairs, Jumbo, King of Snake, and Bruce Lee.
Underworld issued a live set and a DVD named Everything, Everything in 2000, after which Emerson left the group to concentrate more on his DJ career. The mellower album A Hundred Days Off followed in 2002. It was promoted by two singles: Two Months Off and Dinosaur Adventure 3D.
In 2003 Underworld released a 2 CD compilation entitled 1992-2002, comprising some of their best songs. Also since 2003 the group has been trickling out new music on their official website www.underworldlive.com via a series of downloadable mp3s dubbed "The Riverrun Project". Each mp3 bundle features 25-or-so-minute of mixed new material, hundreds of photographs and traditional album art.
In 2005 the band issued another live album, Live in Tokyo 25th November 2005, a recording of Underworld's live performance at the Electraglide festival in Tokyo on 25 November 2005. There were apparently only 7000 copies of the album made.
Oblivion with Bells, their fifth studio album was released in October 2007, the first with additional collaboration with Darren Price who joined the band's live setup in 2005. It spawned four singles: Crocodile, Boy, Boy, Boy, Beautiful Burnout, and Ring Road.
On 13 May 2010, Underworld released a new single Scribble (Radio Edit), available for free download on their official site. This single was followed by a new album later that year, called Barking, which is still in the process of releasing singles, beginning with the aforementioned Scribble, Always Loved a Film and finally Diamond Jigsaw. Also released on a beatport remix contest was Bird 1 where amateur producers were able to put their take on Underworld's collaboration with Dubfire. As of 2011, the duo can also attach to their resumes soundtracking a live stage play. Frankenstein, produced and directed by Danny Boyle, starring both Johnny Lee Miller & Benedict Cumberbatch who are, on alternating nights, both Frankenstein, or the Creature. The Soundtrack is available through Underworld's Website.
January 2016 saw the release of I Exhale, in advance of Barbara Barbara, we face a shining future, released in March 2016.
In April 2018, Underworld released a standalone single, Brilliant Yes That Would Be, an ambient piece with its accompanying video inspired by the Icelandic landscape and their first performance in Reykjavík since 1994.
In May 2018, Underworld unveiled the World of Underworld project, which focuses on reflecting and re-imagining their nearly 30 year body of work. It also serves as an outlet for experimentation, new releases and spontaneous creativity. Brilliant Yes That Would Be was the first track to be released through the World of Underworld, which was recorded and mixed just days before it was released.
Later in that same month, Underworld debuted a new collaboration with Iggy Pop titled Bells & Circles, live at the BBC Biggest Weekend 2018. Shortly after, a four-track collaborative EP with the two artists was released, Teatime Dub Encounters.
On November 1st, 2018, Underworld announced the Drift project, an ongoing music-and-video experiment that publishes new Underworld material on their official website every week. The first instalment began with Another Silent Way, also released on the same day.
On November 1st, 2019, Underworld released Drift Series 1, their tenth studio album. It is the conclusion of the first year of the band's year-long music-and-video experiment Drift. Underworld announced the Drift project will continue on for another year. The now-renamed Drift Series 1, was released exactly one year after the launch of the series, as a box set featuring 7 CDs, a Blu-ray, and an 80-page book documenting the creative process around Drift. A single-disc Drift Series 1 Sampler Edition was also released simultaneously.
Hip-Hop
Underworld Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
It's bigger than hip hop
Uh, one thing 'bout music when it hit you feel no pain
White folks say it controls yo' brain
I know better than that, that's game
And we ready for that two soldiers head of the pack
Matter of fact, who got the Gat and where my army at?
Back to beats, it don't reflect on how many records get sold
On sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll
Whether your project's put on hold
In the real world; these just people with ideas
They just like me and you when the smoke and camera disappear
Against the real world (against the real world)
It's bigger than all these fake-ass records
When po' folks got the millions and my woman's disrespected
If you check 1-2, my word of advice to you is just relax
Just do what you got to do, if that don't work, then kick the facts
If you a fighter, rider, biter, flame-ignitor, crowd-exciter
Or you want to just get high, then just say it
But then if you a liar-liar, pants on fire, wolf-crier, agent wit' a wire
I'm gon' know it when I play it
It's bigger than hip hop
It's bigger than hip hop
Uh, who shot Biggie Smalls?
If we don't get them, they gon' get us all
I'm down for runnin' up on them crackers in they city hall
We ride for y'all all my dogs stay real
Nigga, don't think these record deals gon' feed your seeds
And pay your bills, because they not
MCs get a little bit of love and think they hot
Talkin' 'bout how much money they got all y'all records sound the same
I'm sick of that fake thug, R&B-rap scenario, all day on the radio
Same scenes in the video, monotonous material
Y'all don't here me though
These record labels slang our tapes like dope
You can be next in line and signed and still be writing rhymes and broke
You would rather have a Lexus or justice, a dream or some substance?
A Beamer, a necklace, or freedom
Still a nigga like me don't playa-hate, I just stay awake
This real hip-hop and it don't stop
'Til we get the po-po off the block, they call it
Hip hop
It's bigger than hip hop
D.P.'s got that crazy shit
We keep it crunk-up, John Blazed and shit
D.P.'s got that crazy shit
We keep it crunk-up, John Blazed and shit
D.P.'s got that crazy shit
We keep it crunk-up, John Blazed and shit
D.P.'s got that crazy shit
We keep it crunk-up, John Blazed and shit
D.P.'s got that crazy shit
We keep it crunk-up
The song "Hip-Hop" by Underworld is an anthem that celebrates the power and cultural significance of hip hop music. The phrase "It's bigger than hip hop" is repeated throughout the song, emphasizing the idea that hip hop is not just a genre of music but a movement with social and political implications. The song directly addresses the stereotypes and prejudices that are often perpetuated by mainstream society about hip hop music and its listeners.
The opening verse of the song challenges the notion that hip hop music is a corrupting influence that "controls yo' brain." The lyrics reject this idea and assert that hip hop listeners are intelligent and discerning people who are able to appreciate the music without being unduly influenced by it. The verse also invokes images of soldiers and military strength, referencing the idea that hip hop is a force that has the power to unite and mobilize people.
The second verse of the song is more confrontational, calling out the hypocrisy of the music industry and the exploitation of hip hop artists by record labels. The lyrics criticize the materialistic and stereotypical themes that dominate mainstream hip hop, and assert that real hip hop is about more than just making money or achieving fame. The final lines of the song connect the struggle for racial justice and equality to the power of hip hop music, highlighting its importance as a voice for marginalized communities.
Overall, "Hip-Hop" is a powerful statement about the role of music in culture and society. The song affirms the cultural and political significance of hip hop, and celebrates its ability to bring people together and create meaningful change.
Line by Line Meaning
It's bigger than hip hop
Hip hop culture and music represent something greater than just the genre itself
Uh, one thing 'bout music when it hit you feel no pain
Music has the power to evoke intense emotions without causing physical pain
White folks say it controls yo' brain
Stereotypical beliefs surrounding hip hop and its listeners are unfounded and perpetuated by racism
I know better than that, that's game
The artist is aware of these stereotypes and sees through them
And we ready for that two soldiers head of the pack
The artist and their community are prepared to defy these stereotypes and lead the way
Matter of fact, who got the Gat and where my army at?
Who has a gun and where are the singer's allies?
Rather attack and not react
Rather than responding defensively, they take the offensive and seize control
Back to beats, it don't reflect on how many records get sold
The quality of hip hop should not be measured solely by commercial success
On sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll
Popular culture often glamorizes hedonistic lifestyles associated with music
Whether your project's put on hold
Delayed musical releases are not relevant to the bigger picture
In the real world; these just people with ideas
Musicians are people with unique views and creativity
They just like me and you when the smoke and camera disappear
Behind the fame and media attention, musicians are just regular humans
Against the real world (against the real world)
Hip hop culture is in opposition to societal norms and expectations
It's bigger than all these fake-ass records
The true meaning of hip hop surpasses superficial, disingenuous music releases
When po' folks got the millions and my woman's disrespected
Injustice exists when underprivileged individuals earn less despite their talents, while women are not given equal treatment as men
If you check 1-2, my word of advice to you is just relax
The artist advises listeners to remain calm despite these injustices
Just do what you got to do, if that don't work, then kick the facts
Take action within your abilities and speak truth to power
If you a fighter, rider, biter, flame-ignitor, crowd-exciter
Whether you are a performer or fan, all are welcome in hip hop culture
Or you want to just get high, then just say it
Drug use is not condemned but honesty is valued in the community
But then if you a liar-liar, pants on fire, wolf-crier, agent wit' a wire
Individuals who deceive or betray the community are not tolerated
I'm gon' know it when I play it
Hip hop culture is aware of those who do not embody its values
Uh, who shot Biggie Smalls?
The artist acknowledges the violent realities of hip hop culture
If we don't get them, they gon' get us all
If the community does not fight back against those who seek to harm them, they will continue to suffer
I'm down for runnin' up on them crackers in they city hall
The artist is willing to take action and confront those in power who perpetuate injustice
We ride for y'all all my dogs stay real
The community remains loyal and authentic to its members
Nigga, don't think these record deals gon' feed your seeds
Don't assume financial success will solve all of your problems
And pay your bills, because they not
Record deals may not provide the stability necessary to support one's family
MCs get a little bit of love and think they hot
Artists should not become arrogant or entitled upon receiving recognition
Talkin' 'bout how much money they got all y'all records sound the same
Hip hop culture should value diversity over financial success or conformity
I'm sick of that fake thug, R&B-rap scenario, all day on the radio
The singer is tired of hearing false bravado and the same generic music on the radio
Same scenes in the video, monotonous material
The repetitive nature of music videos often leads to uninspired content
Y'all don't here me though
The artist is frustrated that others do not share their perspective
These record labels slang our tapes like dope
Record labels commodify and exploit hip hop artists like a drug dealer
You can be next in line and signed and still be writing rhymes and broke
Even with a record deal, artists may not find financial stability
You would rather have a Lexus or justice, a dream or some substance?
What do you value more- material possessions or integrity and justice?
A Beamer, a necklace, or freedom
Luxury items are nothing without liberty and autonomy
Still a nigga like me don't playa-hate, I just stay awake
The singer acknowledges discrimination but chooses not to dwell on it, instead remaining vigilant and alert
This real hip-hop and it don't stop
The essence of hip hop culture endures and cannot be stopped
'Til we get the po-po off the block, they call it
Hip hop culture seeks to remove police from their neighborhoods to prevent police brutality
Hip hop
The artist reiterates the power and importance of hip hop culture
D.P.'s got that crazy shit
The artist gives a shoutout to the D.P. crew, acknowledging their unique style and contributions to hip hop
We keep it crunk-up, John Blazed and shit
They maintain a high energy and remain true to themselves and their style
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: ANDREW MAIR, CLAYTON ANGELO GAVIN, LAVONNE ALFORD, VONKELI E. WILLIAMS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
nottix
Bless ya'll, enjoy.
0:00 Invisible Inc. - Pure
03:05 Godfather Don - Do MY Thing
07:39 Distortionists - Dope Compensation
12:15 K Mack - In Baltimore
16:15 Ghetto Chilldren - I'm an MC
20:28 Cipher Complete - Last Breath
23:59 Mikst Nutz - No Hook
27:21 Sharpshooters feat. Four Fifths - Analyze
32:29 Shrlock - For What It Was
37:56 Rhetoric - Love Or The Loot
41:18 World Renown - Long Gev
45:41 K-Otix - Do You Wanna Be an MC
49:05 Reggie Reg - Presence Of The Past
52:45 Emanon - Blind Individuals
Professor Arun
0:00 Invisible Inc. - Pure
03:05 Godfather Don - Do MY Thing
07:39 Distortionists - Dope Compensation
12:15 K Mack - In Baltimore
16:15 Ghetto Chilldren - I'm an MC
20:28 Cipher Complete - Last Breath
23:59 Mikst Nutz - No Hook
27:21 Sharpshooters feat. Four Fifths - Analyze
32:29 Shrlock - For What It Was
37:56 Rhetoric - Love Or The Loot
41:18 World Renown - Long Gev
45:41 K-Otix - Do You Wanna Be an MC
49:05 Reggie Reg - Presence Of The Past
52:45 Emanon - Blind Individuals
stellan
just spreading love
0:00 Invisible Inc. - Pure
03:05 Godfather Don - Do MY Thing
07:39 Distortionists - Dope Compensation
12:15 K Mack - In Baltimore
16:15 Ghetto Chilldren - I'm an MC
20:28 Cipher Complete - Last Breath
23:59 Mikst Nutz - No Hook
27:21 Sharpshooters feat. Four Fifths - Analyze
32:29 Shrlock - For What It Was
37:56 Rhetoric - Love Or The Loot
41:18 World Renown - Long Gev
45:41 K-Otix - Do You Wanna Be an MC
49:05 Reggie Reg - Presence Of The Past
52:45 Emanon - Blind Individuals
Nicola Armellin
damn over 3 million views?! real hip hop never die
feel free to check out my other playlists too, here's the link https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4G14zsHQYcUAsIcKaxxVZEPiat7JA6Cp
UnSpotted Music
Pure gold man. The question is where is the new Post Malone track bro? God what a mess hip hop has turned into. Thanks for trying to keep the truth alive my friend!
ThirdEyeVision ParallelDimension
The incredible power of true musik....never die....!!!true Musik Everytime show me the way i choos and walk on by.....what i am and all me rappresent
Coraga 1
Dope selection, mad respect from Toronto
tajelak
lefortovo
Mister T
Great playlist much deserved
nottix
Bless ya'll, enjoy.
0:00 Invisible Inc. - Pure
03:05 Godfather Don - Do MY Thing
07:39 Distortionists - Dope Compensation
12:15 K Mack - In Baltimore
16:15 Ghetto Chilldren - I'm an MC
20:28 Cipher Complete - Last Breath
23:59 Mikst Nutz - No Hook
27:21 Sharpshooters feat. Four Fifths - Analyze
32:29 Shrlock - For What It Was
37:56 Rhetoric - Love Or The Loot
41:18 World Renown - Long Gev
45:41 K-Otix - Do You Wanna Be an MC
49:05 Reggie Reg - Presence Of The Past
52:45 Emanon - Blind Individuals
S'thembiso
Thank you nottix
corteo m
Thankk wachooooo
JahCouille Lafripouille
thx man ;)