South Central Cartel
Fronted by MC Havoc Da Mouthpiece, whose father was a member of the Chi-Lites, the ranks of South Central Cartel are also inhabited by rappers Prodeje, Havikk Da Rymesman, LV Da Voice (the group's ‘singer’) and DJ's Kaos and Gripp. Formed in 1986, the group which evolved into SCC had originally titled themselves Mafia Style and New Authority. The group hail from Los Angeles, as made explicit in the choice of their title, and released material on their own GWK (Gangstas With Knowledge) label. Like Compton's Most Wanted before them, they peddled hard street narratives, best displayed on singles like the self-explanatory Gang Stories. They managed to sell over 200,000 copies of their debut album on GWK, before flirting with a contract to the Quality emporium. Eventually Havoc contacted Russel Simmons, whom he had met while at a Black Music convention, which led to the band joining Sony's RAL/Def Jam stable for 'N' GATZ WE TRUST. As with previous work this boasted live musician backing, the advantages of which were tempered by the fact that they largely stuck to recreations of generic George Clinton riffs. However, in the wake of South Central Cartel's success Prodoje, who helmed the production, has gone on become a successful mixer and producer, working with Public Enemy, LL Cool J and Spice I. SCC themselves also scripted and starred in a public service film encouraging young people to use their vote.