Goodie Mob, 1996 MIAMI knights (miami, FL) PHOTO BY j lash
Cool Breeze invented the term “Dirty South” but since the song derived from the phrase was a Goodie Mob song, credit often goes to them. Not saying they don’t deserve it. The G-Mo-B introduced a rare blend of spirituality, socio-political awareness and raw lyricism that has yet to be duplicated. Beyond that, their ability to connect directly with both book readers and block bleeders is what made them stand alone. What other group do you know of that could share stages with the Roots in New York and UGK in the rural South? The group’s diversity and perhaps imminent split is well captured in this particular photo. The eccentric Cee-Lo and Big Gipp lean forward rocking colorful outfits, subtly demanding attention, while the more low profile T-Mo and Khujo “keep their hat low” leaning back in attire more fitting of the laid-back Southern lifestyle. While both of their first two albums achieved gold status, their true impact wasn’t completely realized until after the group disbanded and each member embarked on solo projects. 78 // OZONE MAG