Sir Mix-A-Lot
Seattle based DJ/MC and producer (b. Anthony Ray) who broke with Posse On Broadway, a statement of intent released on his own label in 1986, which would go on to sell over a million copies. Further crossover success arrived with rap's second great rock/rap coalition: a cover of Black Sabbath's Iron Man, performed in conjunction with Seattle thrash outfit Metal Church. By the time of his second album Sir Mix-A-Lot was sampling Prince's Batdance, and maintaining his sharp, political edge—though he is too light-hearted and deft of touch to be considered truly gangsta. His Rhyme Cartel is signed to Def American records, and he can boast a platinum and gold album for SWASS and SEMINAR, respectively. Sir-Mix-A-Lot's use of unlikely sources, the synthesized pop of Devo and Kraftwerk measured against the conscious lyrics of rappers like Public Enemy, was a unique combination. However, there were some crude sexual japes on tracks like Mack Daddy, and he was hardly shown in the best light by the pro-gun swagger of No Rods Barred. He did enjoy another huge hit in Baby Got Back, however.