Back in the Mix with Arrested Development

Back in 1992 Hip-Hop music was going through a serious renaissance thanks in part, to the group Arrested Development. Arrested Development burst on to the scene with brightly colored clothing, a live band, a sound steeped in both Rap and the Funk sounds of Sly and the Family Stone and a message filled with cultural empowerment. They were Grammy award winners. They were voted band of the year in Rolling Stone and they were the feature main stage act on the 1994 Lollapalooza tour. Sadly however, like a thief in the night the band disappeared, never to be heard from again until now. Arrested Development re-grouped in 2000 and is ready to re-ignite the cultural revolution they started way back when. They are currently on tour and they were able to bring their unmistakable sound to the magnificent Vault 350 in downtown Long Beach.

The band says the tour has been exciting and they have amassed a huge international following in Australia and Japan. In fact the group has the number one single in Japan right now off of their latest disc “Among the Trees”. The group understands that times have changed in the world of Hip-Hop. It is much more of a capitalist venture and they are concerned about the over saturation of gangsta rap in the genre. They believe their needs to be a balance and that they may be the group to provide that balance with their message and sound. When asked why the group dropped off the radar, Rapper/leader Speech simply states, “We were just on tour for so long…..for over two years and we just decided to take a break from the road and each other”.

From the minute the group hit the stage it became evident that AD had not missed a beat in years. The group still has a flair for theatrics and celebrating life and culture are still integral parts of the bands stage show. The crowd showed their approval as the band ran through their best known hits (Tennessee, Everyday People, Mr. Wendell) While watching the group it is easy to see how they have influenced the more progressive side of Hip-hop and Rap. Artists and groups like Erykah Badu, The Roots and even the more pop oriented Black Eyed Peas owe much to the group. Speech is still a serious MC on the mike but he has also developed into a powerful singer. He showcased this talent by taking on Bob Marley’s classic “Redemption Song”.

The group admits they have had to ask themselves if there is a place for Arrested Development in today’s Rap world. Only time will tell if the group can reach the heights they achieved in the early 90’s but one thing is clear. Balance in Hip-Hop music is lacking and desperately needed. Arrested Development, along with the progressive Rap groups they influenced, might be able to give folks a glimpse into the other side of the Hip-Hop world if given the opportunity. For now the group is content to tour and spread their message of cultural affirmation, dignity and pride to their core audience of everyday people. The next time the celebration comes to Long Beach, make sure you take them up on their invitation.

For more information on Arrested Development, check out www.speechmusic.com