11/24/2023
The Fat Boys is a Hip-Hop trio from New York, they first emerged in the early 80s as the Disco 3, the members were Prince Markie Dee, Kool Rock-Ski, and Buff Love. They gained recognition for their innovative use of beatboxing in their songs, paving the way for artists like Biz Markie and Doug E. Fresh. Alongside Run-D.M.C., Whodini, and Kurtis Blow, The Fat Boys were among the pioneers of releasing full length rap albums.
Known for their comedic and self deprecating rhymes, the trio achieved Gold status with four of their seven studio albums, including hits like "Jail House Rap", "Can You Feel It?", and "The Fat Boys Are Back". Their unique sound attracted attention, and they became one of the first Hip-Hop groups to tour internationally.
Their breakthrough came in 1983 when they won a Hip-Hop talent contest sponsored by Coca-Cola. Renamed The Fat Boys, they rose to fame with their song "Stick 'Em". Their unexpected victory led to their inclusion in the Swatch Watch New York City Fresh Fest alongside established acts like Run-D.M.C. and Kurtis Blow.
The Fat Boys further solidified their popularity through collaborations, such as their platinum single "Wipeout" with The Beach Boys and "The Twist (Yo, Twist)" with Chubby Checker. They also ventured into film, starring in Krush Groove, Knights of the City, and Disorderlies.
Despite their initial success, changing tastes in the rap scene led to the group's breakup in 1991, with Prince Markie Dee pursuing solo interests. Sadly, Buff Love passed away in 1995.
Kool Rock-Ski pursued a solo career, releasing the EP Party Time in 2009. A documentary, Unsung: The Story of The Fat Boys, aired in 2010, shedding light on the group's journey and reunion efforts.
Prince Markie Dee's tragic death in 2021 marked another loss for the Hip-Hop community but the Fat Boys' legacy endures as trailblazers in the culture, remembered for their humor, beatboxing, and contributions to the genre's early development.
This isn't their whole story but we always suggest anyone who's a fan of the culture go read more for themselves. Much respect to The Fat Boys, we appreciate your contributions to Hip-Hop.