Loud Records is one of the most integral record labels in hip hop. The record label, founded by Steve Rifkind, has jumpstarted the career of so many iconic acts we know today, and in celebration of the label’s 30th anniversary, a monumental tribute performance was held at yesterday’s BET awards.
Not only did the entire Wu-Tang Clan perform, but the crowd also got performances from Remy Ma, David Banner, Lil’ Flip, Mobb Deep’s Havoc, Dead Prez, M.O.P., Project Pat and Three 6 Mafia, all of whom were signed to Loud Records during their early days.
The tribute commenced with a performance from the legendary duo Dead Prez who performed their most popular single to date, ‘Hip Hop’, which many will recognise as the theme tune of the Chappelle Show. Continuing the New York segment, the legendary Mobb Deep rapper Havoc took to the stage alongside new-gen Brooklyn rapper Joey Bada$$.
Loud Records is monumental, so it was only fitting for the legends to hit the stage because next, Lil Kim joined Mobb Deep’s Havoc to perform the iconic remix of the song ‘Quiet Storm’, one of hip hop’s most significant collaborations. Taking to the stage after Lil Kim was arguably the world’s most skilled female rapper, Remy Ma, as she joined forces with M.O.P to bring the noise with their raucous 2001 track ‘Ante Up’.
With Remy Ma of the Terror Squad on the stage, it was only natural that her collaborator and best friend, Fat Joe, would hit the stage alongside her to perform their vicious number one track, ‘Lean Back’. With New York being the birthplace of Loud Records, the tribute had to begin there. However, it did not stay there.
Moving to the label’s roster of Southern artists, Houston rapper Lil’ Flip came out to perform his most well-known hit ‘Like A pimp’, who was followed by Tennessee crew Three Six Mafia, who hit the stage with ‘Stay Fly’. Project Pat of the collective also delivered ‘Chickenhead’ from his 2001 album, Mista Don’t Play: Everythangs Workin.
The finale of the tribute was performed by Loud Records’ most impactful signing, The Wu-Tang Clan. Performing a medley of all of their hits, beginning with their 1993 album Enter the Wu-Tang: (36 Chambers). They also performed their most renowned hit ‘C.R.E.A.M’.
Overall the tribute was monumental and extremely moving. You can watch the full tribute in the video below.
