By Anthony Devee
Teren Delvon Jones, also known as, ?Del Tha Funkee Homosapien.? is a well known rapper among the underground hip-hop community. Born in Oakland, California, he got his start with his cousin Ice Cube?s backing band, da Lench Mob. As Ice Cube rapped about gangs and the dark side of the streets, Del focused more on humor in his music. His debut album, ?I Wish My Brother George Was Here,? was produced by Ice Cube, and established Del?s spot in the underground hip-hop community.
With songs such as ?Mistadobalina,? one can tell he has a creative, fun approach to his writing, and while he may not have a message to get across, his songs are and have been described by listeners and critics as melodically catchy and memorable, as well as brash, boisterous, messy, gusty, druggy, humorous, and silly.
Another Rapper of the underground community is local Pontiac, Michigan based MC Nashid Sulaiman, also known as ?One Be Lo.? Sulaiman, born Raland Scruggs, converted to Islam after a stay in prison for armed robbery, now creates music that is tense, hypnotic, gritty, literate, and earthy. With self-reflective lyrics, listeners are given a glimpse into the life of not only del, but also the lives of those around him.
While Del may address the same issues, One Be Lo induces thought provoking questions, and has musical arrangements on his tracks that are meticulously arranged to deliver a stronger message. The fan bases of both artists aren?t too different from each other. Listeners of underground Hip-Hop share the same thirst for original beats, words, and delivery, and Del? and One both accomplish this in their music.
In this time of war and poverty, music has the power to bring enlightenment to those who are unaware of the world around them. Words and music are such powerful communication tools, and Del tha Funkee Homosapaien, and One Be Low, are two different artists who convey life that is real, raw, controversial, and ultimately, universal.
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