coolio fantastic voyage the greatest hits songs

Fantastic Voyage: The Greatest Hits

(cd - tommy boy #1473), main album:.

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Greatest Hits

January 1, 2011 10 Songs, 40 minutes ℗ 2011 Top Jazz Records LLC

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• Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.4 x 4.9 x 0.3 inches; 4.8 ounces
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Tommy Boy
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ December 10, 2006
• Label ‏ : ‎ Tommy Boy
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B00005MK3W
• #871 in West Coast Rap
• #5,350 in Pop Rap (CDs & Vinyl)
• #144,619 in Pop (CDs & Vinyl)

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12 best coolio songs of all time (greatest hits).

Step into the world of Coolio’s greatest hits, where Grammy-winning hip-hop beats have resonated through speakers far and wide.

Coolio’s musical genius has birthed a collection of unforgettable and groundbreaking songs that have left an indelible mark on the hip-hop genre.

From the infectious rhythms to the thought-provoking lyrics, each track embodies the essence of Coolio’s unmatched artistry.

So, without further ado, let’s embark on this captivating exploration of Coolio’s musical legacy, immersing ourselves in the beats and rhymes that have defined an era and continue to captivate audiences to this day.

We proudly present to you a carefully curated list of the best Coolio songs!

1. “Gangsta’s Paradise”

Soaring on a soulful melody, “ Gangsta’s Paradise ” by Coolio ft. L.V. is a classic track that will have you singing along.

This iconic collaboration between Coolio and L.V. was released in 1995 and quickly rose to the top of the charts.

It reached the #1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100, won a Grammy Award, and was featured on the soundtrack of the hit movie Dangerous Minds.

The song conveys a powerful message about the struggles of life in the inner city and its production has a cinematic quality to it, complete with strings, horns, and a hard-driving beat.

The result is a captivating and timeless hip-hop classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.

2. “Fantastic Voyage”

You may not have gone on a physical voyage, but you can still feel the exhilaration of “Fantastic Voyage” through Coolio’s lyrics.

The song begins with a direct call to action, urging listeners to join Coolio on a musical journey.

He takes you through a lyrical landscape that features elements of funk, jazz, and hip-hop, creating a distinctively upbeat and carefree vibe.

With its catchy refrain and upbeat tempo, the song has become an anthem for summertime fun, and its upbeat message of hope and positivity has made it a hit with fans.

Despite being released over two decades ago, “Fantastic Voyage” remains an all-time favorite Coolio song.

3. “Ooh La La”

Experience the fun energy of Coolio’s “Ooh La La” – a classic rap song with a catchy hook and an infectious beat.

The upbeat tempo of the song is sure to get anyone up and dancing, with its bouncy beats and synths accompanying Coolio’s playful rhymes.

The song’s clever lyrics detail the adventures of a cool cat, living life as he pleases.

The chorus is especially memorable, with Coolio’s signature laid-back flow and a sing-along hook that’s sure to get stuck in your head.

All in all, “Ooh La La” is a fun and catchy rap song that’ll stay with you long after it ends.

4. “Kenan & Kel”

Take a trip down memory lane and reminisce about the hilarious hijinks of Kenan and Kel with this classic 90s television show.

The show was a hit with viewers of all ages, it starred Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell as two mischievous teenagers living in Chicago, who often got into wacky adventures.

Their hijinks were often aided by Kenan’s wily pal, Chris, and hampered by the duo’s nemesis, their principal, Mr. Bailey.

The show featured a mix of slapstick comedy and genuine heart, and the chemistry between its two leads was undeniable.

Kenan & Kel was beloved by viewers and remains a classic piece of 90s pop culture.

5. “Cruisin'”

“Cruisin'” is the perfect blend of pulsing beats and fun lyrics that make it an instant classic.

It opens with a tight drum beat that drives the melody and sets the tone for the rest of the song.

The chorus is an anthemic call-and-response, with Kenan & Kel’s signature rap-sung vocals punctuating the catchy lyrics.

The production is slick, with a balance of modern elements and classic hip-hop sensibilities.

It’s catchy, it’s fun, and it’s sure to get even the most reluctant music fan to groove along.

6. “Let’s Do It”

Are you ready for the next Coolio jam?

Get ready to groove to the infectious beats of “Let’s Do It”.

This feel-good party anthem is guaranteed to get you up on your feet and dancing.

It seamlessly blends the essence of old-school and modern hip-hop, creating a captivating and energetic sound that will have the crowd moving and grooving.

With its upbeat tempo, “Let’s Do It” sets the perfect mood for a lively celebration.

The lyrics are simple yet catchy, making it easy for everyone to sing along.

Coolio’s distinctive flow and delivery add an extra layer of excitement and personality to the track, infusing it with his unique flavor.

If you’re in the mood for an upbeat hip-hop track that is effortlessly enjoyable, look no further than “Let’s Do It”.

7. “My Soul”

Experience the smooth and soulful vibes of “My Soul”, a captivating track that offers a refreshing contrast to the upbeat energy of “Let’s Do It”.

Coolio’s laid-back flow and delivery set the perfect tone for this chill-out song, allowing listeners to unwind and immerse themselves in its soothing atmosphere.

With its mellow horns and strings creating a melodic backdrop, Coolio pours his heart out, expressing his innermost feelings and personal struggles.

Through his lyrics, he seeks understanding and connection on a deeper level, emphasizing the importance of having one’s soul truly understood.

“My Soul” serves as an emotional ode to the power of self-expression, reminding us to listen to our hearts and stay true to ourselves.

Within Coolio’s illustrious discography, “My Soul” stands out as an essential track that showcases his artistic depth and lyrical prowess, leaving a lasting impact on those who appreciate its heartfelt message.

8. “Knight Fall”

Immerse yourself in the emotional journey of self-reflection with “Knight Fall” by Coolio, a powerful song that instills a sense of perseverance and resilience.

Through its intricate rhymes and evocative imagery, the song beautifully captures the challenges and obstacles we encounter in life.

Coolio’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the struggles we face, urging us to confront them head-on.

The melody of “Knight Fall” uplifts and inspires, complementing the strength of its empowering lyrics.

It serves as a source of motivation, encouraging listeners to keep pushing forward and never lose hope, regardless of the difficulties that lie ahead.

Within Coolio’s repertoire, “Knight Fall” stands out as a testament to his lyrical prowess and ability to convey meaningful messages.

It leaves a lasting impact on those who connect with its powerful sentiment of resilience and the unwavering human spirit.

9. “Kinda High, Kinda Drunk”

You can almost feel Coolio’s pain and determination in “Kinda High, Kinda Drunk”.

It’s an emotionally charged song that captures the highs and lows of life.

The lyrics explore themes of loss, heartache, and regret, while the powerful beat and driving rhythms hint at a sense of hope and resilience.

Coolio’s passionate delivery of the lyrics adds to the song’s emotional intensity, making it easy to connect to the deeper meaning of the song.

With its mix of introspective lyrics and upbeat instrumentals, “Kinda High, Kinda Drunk” is a great example of Coolio’s ability to craft raw, honest music that speaks to the struggles of everyday life.

10. “Shake It Up”

Brace yourself for the energetic vibes of “Shake It Up” by Coolio, a captivating song that compels you to move to its infectious beat and captivating vocal delivery.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of vibrant nightlife, where Coolio’s voice becomes a rallying cry for partygoers to cast aside their worries and immerse themselves in the present moment.

With its synth-heavy instrumental, “Shake It Up” becomes an irresistible anthem of escape, infusing the listener with boundless energy and an undeniable desire to groove along.

Within the realm of Coolio’s repertoire, “Shake It Up” shines as a testament to his ability to craft an infectious and dynamic track.

It captures the essence of freedom and serves as a vibrant reminder to seize the moment and let loose on the dance floor.

11. “Ghetto Square Dance”

Experience the energy of Coolio’s “Ghetto Square Dance” and feel the beat as it encourages you to let go and get lost in the moment.

The song is an electrifying mix of hip-hop beats, funk basslines, and melodic keyboard riffs that will get your body grooving and your feet moving.

Coolio’s signature rap style is on full display, with his witty lyrics and clever wordplay adding to the song’s appeal.

The chorus is an infectious hook, and the background harmonies provide a perfect contrast to Coolio’s passionate bars.

“Ghetto Square Dance” is an undeniable classic and one of Coolio’s greatest hits.

12. “Can U Dig It”

Feel the beat of “Can U Dig It” as Coolio invites you to experience the groove.

The song is upbeat and light-hearted, featuring a catchy chorus with a memorable hook.

The beat moves quickly between soft and fast rhythms, creating a sense of energy that is impossible to ignore.

The lyrics are simple but clever, with Coolio’s signature wit and humor shining through.

With its fast pace and catchy melody, “Can U Dig It” is a great example of Coolio’s music at its finest.

Best Coolio Songs – Final Thoughts

You’ve heard the best of Coolio.

His greatest hits have been a staple of hip hop for decades, from the classic “Gangsta’s Paradise” to “Can U Dig It”.

Coolio’s clever rhymes and memorable beats have made him one of the most recognizable and beloved rappers of all time.

Whether you’re a fan of old-school hip-hop or a listener of today’s hip-hop, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Coolio’s timeless classics.

Coolio’s music will continue to endure for years to come, proving that he’s an artist who can stand the test of time.

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5 classic Coolio songs that aren’t “Gangsta’s Paradise”

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Artis Leon Ivey Jr., better known as Grammy Award-winning rapper, actor and producer Coolio, may have been born in Pennsylvania, but throughout his career, he always claimed Compton as his home turf. His death yesterday at 59 was a shock to the L.A. hip-hop scene.

Coming up in Compton, Coolio was already a well-respected emcee when he joined the group WC and the Maad Circle in 1991, contributing to their debut album “Ain’t a Damn Thang Changed.” But everything did change for him in 1995 when the film “Dangerous Minds” was released with his song “Gangsta’s Paradise” on the soundtrack. The song stayed on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for three weeks, he won a Grammy for best rap solo performance and Weird Al Yankovic even did a cover of it called “Amish Paradise.” “Gangsta’s Paradise” became one of the most successful rap songs of then, and now, with Billboard ranking it No. 85 on the list of the greatest songs of all time.

Coolio, rapper known for Grammy-winning song ‘Gangsta’s Paradise,’ dead at 59

Coolio, who grew up in Compton and died Wednesday afternoon, won a Grammy for ‘Gangsta’s Paradise,’ which was featured in the movie ‘Dangerous Minds.’

Sept. 28, 2022

While he might be best known for “Gangsta’s Paradise,” Coolio is far from a one- or two-hit wonder, achieving major label success throughout the ’90s. His music also made appearances in Hollywood movies (who could forget Brittany Murphy singing “Rollin’ With My Homies” in “Clueless” ?) Since then, Coolio rarely slowed down, popping up on reality TV shows such as “Celebrity Big Brother,” “Celebrity Cook-Off,” and “Coolio’s Rules,” and crossing the country on tours with rappers such as MC Hammer and Sir Mix-a-Lot.

To show our gratitude for his life and music, here are some of the other hits from Coolio’s catalog.

“1,2,3,4 (Sumpin’ New)”

The second hip-hop fans heard the counting that kicked of the ’96 classic “1,2,3,4 (Sumpin’ New),” they knew it was time to dance. Coolio always excelled at delivering feel-good songs with a meaningful messageand this song from the “Gangsta’s Paradise” album is a prime example. Whether dancing in the car or grinding in a club, when “1,2,3,4” came on, you were gonna get up. And then, you were gonna get down.

“Fantastic Voyage”

If you’re of a certain age, there is no song that will make you miss the ‘90s quite like “Fantastic Voyage.” It was a summer banger, if a summer banger lasted an entire year plus a lifetime. Off his 1994 debut album “It Takes a Thief,” there was, and still is, nothing like cranking this tune to the highest decibel while cruising in your own ride, wanting to take that ride with Coolio. While this song lyrically is about flipping switches, set trippin’ and possibly getting steak to accompany beans and rice, it also includes the line, “If you don’t work, you don’t eat,” making it a teachable moment too.

“Aw, Here It Goes!”

From 1996-2000, teens everywhere couldn’t get enough of the Nickelodeon series “Kenan & Kel,” staring Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell. And sure, Kenan and Kel were all the rage, but that theme song? Straight fire. Double K tapped Coolio to record their intro and it felt like getting dessert before dinner. Rapping about K&K’s misadventures and schemes, “Aw, Here It Goes” also gave us a glimpse into how Coolio viewed the guys, likening them to “Siegfried and Roy or Abbott and Costello. Magic and Kareem, or Penn and Teller.”

23-year-old rapper Kee Riches fatally shot in Compton over weekend

Kee Riches, a 23-year-old L.A. rapper, was shot and killed in Compton on Saturday night along with another man who was also pronounced dead at the scene.

Sept. 27, 2022

Dr. Coolio checks in to give a sex education lesson in his 1995 hit “Too Hot,” and every line he raps in this thoughtful song is still valid in 2022. The message is one of respecting your body and making smart decisions with it. And a great way to do that is to be safe sexually. “Latex, safe sex, you better learn.” Coolio was great about communicating with the younger generation. That’s what makes “Too Hot” such an important song, as it rings true even all these years later.

“C U When U Get There”

In 1997, off his third album, “My Soul,” Coolio dropped “C U When U Get There” featuring 40 Thevz and it was met with high praise around the globe. This song hits so differently with the passing of Coolio, as it became somewhat of an anthem used at funerals in the late ‘90s. It’s an emotional song of struggle made more intense by the chorus, all while delivering an inspirational message of choosing to have faith in yourself over falling to temptation. RIP, Coolio. “I guess I’ll see you when you see me.”

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Remembering Coolio: 5 Standout Tracks From The Late Rapper’s Discography

With a career spanning three decades, Coolio will be remembered for his upbeat ‘90s jams, sense of humor, and lyricism. While the road to the top was rocky, and Coolio developed a unique sensibility and canon of hits.

GRAMMY-winning rapper Coolio passed away on Sept. 28, at the age of 59. The rapper is best known for his 1995 smash hit "Gangsta’s Paradise," which became the top-selling single of the year thanks to its melodic sample, energetic flow and catchy hook. He is survived by his six children.

Born Artis Leon Ivey Jr., Coolio spent his early years in Monessen, Pennsylvania before relocating with his family to Compton, California — the birthplace of West Coast rap. Coolio's parents introduced him to classic R&B hits from their youth, and those songs became inspiration for his future sound. "My mom and stepfather was listening to Miles Davis, Stevie Wonder, the Supremes, the Dramatics, Marvin Gaye , Curtis Mayfield ," Coolio told Rolling Stone in 1995. "Back in those days, people didn’t have big album collections, at least not in the ghetto, but we did."

Before making a full-time commitment to music, the "Fantastic Voyage" rapper worked a range of jobs, including airport security; he credited his work as a volunteer firefighter with helping him kick an addiction to crack cocaine. "I wasn’t looking for a career; I was looking for a way to clean up   a way to escape the drug thing," he told the LA Times in 1994. "It was going to kill me and I knew I had to stop. In firefighting, training was [the] discipline I needed. We ran every day. I wasn’t drinking or smoking or doing the stuff I usually did."

With his life back on track, the rapper was free to focus on his music and never looked back. After the release of his debut album, It Takes A Thief , in 1994, Coolio enjoyed immense success on global music charts, and wins at the GRAMMYs, American Music Awards and MTV Music Awards before his career began to simmer down in the 2000s. 

But Coolio did not stop. In 2008, he created a cooking reality show called " Cookin’ With Coolio " and became a spokesperson for Environmental Justice and Climate Change , helping to start a dialogue with students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) about global warming. 

As news of his passing made the rounds on social media, fans and peers alike paid tribute to the late rapper, including fellow West Coast rap legend Ice Cube. "This is sad news," he tweeted . "I witness first hand this man’s grind to the top of the industry. Rest In Peace, @Coolio." 

​​Dangerous Minds actor Michelle Pfeiffer took to Instagram to pay her respects. "I remember him being nothing but gracious. 30 years later I still get chills when I hear ["Gangsta’s Paradise"] Sending love and light to his family. Rest in Power, Artis Leon Ivey Jr. ❤️."

In celebration of his life and career, listen to and learn about five standout tracks from the late GRAMMY-winning rapper, who has become a part of pop culture history.

"Gangsta’s Paradise"

Coolio co-wrote this classic hip-hop track for the soundtrack of the 1995 high school drama, Dangerous Minds, starring Michelle Pfeiffer. Featuring a Stevie Wonder sample (" Pastime Paradise ") and a haunting yet catchy chorus sung to perfection by Larry "LV" Sanders, the cinematic theme song erupted on the charts, making Coolio a household name across the globe. (According to the New York Times , Wonder approved the use of the sample with a major stipulation: The song had to be profanity-free. This simple caveat may have inadvertently set the song up for more widespread success.)

"Gangsta's Paradise" set Coolio up for his first nomination at the 38th GRAMMY Awards. The track was only the second rap song to get nominated for Record Of The Year, and won Coolio his first golden gramophone. The rapper was nominated a total of six times.

Sanders played a pivotal role in the song’s success, according to Rolling Stones ’ oral history of the classic track. The singer received the song before Coolio was involved and changed the name from "Pastime Paradise" to "Gangsta’s Paradise." Sanders recorded the singing portion of the track and chose to bring Coolio in to write and perform the rap verses. In March of 1996, Weird Al Yankovic released a parody of the song called " Amish Paradise ," without Coolio’s permission (artist approval is not legally required for a parody song ). Coolio dissed Yankovic and spoke out against the song, though the pair eventually reconciled and Coolio admitted that his ego led to his outburst. 

Yesterday, music writer Dan Ozzi posted an excerpt from an interview with the rapper, in which he addressed the beef and his growth since the incident. "Let me say this: I apologized to Weird Al a long time ago and I was wrong," Coolio said. "Y'all remember that, everybody out there who reads this s—. Real men and real people should be able to admit when they're wrong and I was wrong."

"Fantastic Voyage"

Released on his debut studio album, It Takes a Thief , the song features a pulsating beat and an ever-catchy chorus "Come along and ride on a fantastic voyage" pulled from the heavily sampled 1980 R&B-funk song of the same name by the group Lakeside .

The song was a hit and the album was well-received by hip-hop fans and a sign of good things to come for Coolio’s career. 

"Ooh La La"

Like many ‘90s rappers, Coolio utilized samples from artists of the ‘70s and ‘80s but he infused these memorable sounds with his own flavor. "Ooh La La" — the second single from the rapper’s third album, 1997's My Soul — features a sample of " Pull Up to The Bumper " by Grace Jones . The result is a sonic delight designed for cruising or a throwback party jam. 

While the single did not achieve the same success as his other smash hits, the lesser-known summertime bop holds its own and showcases the rapper's breezier side.

"Aw, Here It Goes"

In the ‘90s, at the height of his fame, Coolio brought his signature swagger and flow to the theme for "Kenan and Kel," a beloved Nickelodeon sitcom starring "SNL’s" Kenan Thompson and Good Burger ’s Kel Mitchell. The duo paid tribute to the late rapper on their Instagram pages: Thompson offered his condolences with a few slides on his Instagram story, while Mitchell shared a heartfelt message and memory.

​​"Rest in Heaven @coolio ! We recently spoke a few months ago laughing and having such a good time. So many great memories with you, bro!," Mitchell wrote . "That time first meeting you on 'All That' cracking up in a Good Burger Sketch then you bringing me on stage after your performance to freestyle. Then later creating the legendary 'Kenan and Kel' theme song for @kenanthompson and I. You did an interview the day of filming the intro on Big Boys Neighborhood and all of Los Angeles was at Universal Studios city walk it was a party!!"

"1, 2, 3, 4 (Sumpin' New)"

Coolio had major skills on the mic and beyond, but he also had a great ear for danceable tracks that could jumpstart any dancefloor. The upbeat 1996 single, "Sumpin’ New" featured three different samples — "Thighs High (Grip Your Hips and Move)" by jazz trumpeter Tom Browne; a vocal sample from "Wikka Wrap" by the Evasions, and its main riff comes from "Good Times" by Chic.

Remembering Betty Davis: 5 Essential Tracks By The Singer/Songwriter, Fashion Icon & Funk Pioneer

Photo: Patrick Ford/Redferns/GettyImages

25 Years Later, 'No Exit' Shows Blondie Galvanizing Its Identity

Released in 1999 after a 15-year hiatus, Blondie's 'No Exit' was more than a reunion album. The edgy, eclectic and innovative album pulled Blondie back from the brink of history and into a new millennium.

"We felt there was no exit from Blondie," Clem Burke, long-standing drummer of Blondie , said in 1999. 

Burke was speaking on the occasion of Blondie's new record, aptly titled No Exit . At the time, the band had reunited after a 15-year absence and, according to Burke, "reared its head again, a four-headed monster." 

Although Burke jested about being unable to shake the pull of the band, No Exit was an edgy, eclectic and innovative record that pulled Blondie back from the brink of history and into a new millennium. The 17-track album saw the band restart their musical mission, delivering genre-blending punk music that brought experimental sounds to the mainstream while also parodying Americana. The reckless abandon shown with No Exit — from music genres to public image — proved a direct through-line to their peak new wave output.

No Exit was certainly a long time coming. The idea of a "reunion" for the famed band was never in the cards; even the idea of a greatest hits record was a no-go.After the release of 1982’s The Hunter — an album that fared poorly with critics and achieved little impact on the charts — the group chose to disband. Co-founder Chris Stein was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease and took time away from music; lead singer Debbie Harry began caring for partner Stein while also pursuing a solo music career and acting opportunities (including John Waters ’ Hairspray ); Burke went on to play drums for the likes of the Romantics and Iggy Pop ; keyboardist Jimmy Destri began producing music for Prince and INXS . 

A true reunion had to involve new music and a relaunch too. Stein recalled watching Jerry Maguire for the first time while recording No Exit in 1998. "I got all teary-eyed because the movie’s all about getting a second chance," he told the L.A. Times . "And that’s what this is about, you know? We’re getting a second chance."

Released on Feb. 23, 1999, No Exit was an energetic and eclectic mix of classic Blondie genres — pop and rock, reggae and rap — that pitched the band to a generation. No Exit eased the band back into a musical landscape dominated by rhythmic hip-hop tracks, velvet R&B anthems and thumping heavy metal.

Audiences at the dawn of the new millennium were already enjoying the success of other girl-fronted rock ensembles; groups like No Doubt , Garbage , and the Cranberries owed Blondie and Harry some credit for trailblazing. (Even if being a female-fronted band became a thorn in Blondie’s side, as seen by their 1978 "campaign" to correct the record with "Blondie is a group!" buttons .) 

Now returning to the charts with such peers, Blondie signaled to the world their assignment was never over — even aging rockers could challenge music conventions and be punk again. Harry was center stage once more, reviving the band’s famed part-parody and part-femme fatale blond bombshell image for a new audience (and Blondie diehards). 

Lead track "Maria" — a spirited song about romantic desire that also plays on religious idol worship — wasn’t quite classic Blondie but a sweet pop treat  The song 

hit No. 1 on the U.K. charts and also topped charts in Spain and Poland. Blondie were officially back in action, but their status left Stein a bit uneasy. "Now we were on the receiving end of a lot of accolades. At times it felt odd being hit with all the ‘legendary’ labels," Stein writes in his upcoming memoir, Under a Rock .

But it was no small feat to get Blondie back together. When they disbanded in 1982, they acknowledged that it was a " madhouse ," with endless fighting and arguments all while Stein began to deteriorate from his chronic illness. While the band had sold more than 40 million albums in their decade-plus together and cemented themselves in the cultural lexicon, a new question emerged: Would their formerly edgy and eclectic sound resonate again?

Part of the band’s advantage in 1999 was also their original musical hallmark: a lack of a loyalty to any singular genre. 

No Exit embraced Blondie’s classic musical eclecticism — a quality that saw some critics deride the record. An "album of hollow new-wave, ska, and rap retreads," Entertainment Weekly opined while Rolling Stone argued it "indulge[d] in the kind of dilettantish genre dabbling that preceded their 1982 demise." But Blondie’s uniqueness was always that their music output resisted easy classification; it wouldn’t be Blondie without any genre experimentation. 

While looking back was important for the band when recording No Exit , it was also key to finding ways to appeal to a new generation of listeners. "We’re part of the future as well as the past," Harry said in 1999 . "One of the stipulations I had was that it not be just a revue of Blondie’s greatest hits. I really felt convinced of and dedicated to the idea that we had to move ahead and do new music." That also extended to playfully redoing tracks they had originally recorded in the 1970s, including the Sangri-Las’ "Out in the Street."

Other songs on No Exit showed a playful and wry tenor, as the four original members were seemingly having fun reconnecting with each other. "Forgive and Forget (Pull Down the Night)" is a smooth and synthy dance track that recalls the Pet Shop Boys and gestures at forgiving past transgressions. Blondie cosplays as a country ensemble on "The Dream’s Lost on Me" with a structured and rhythmic country ballad that elevates Harry’s vocals. "Screaming Skin" takes their past reggae influences  and recasts them in a rapid-fire rock song about breaking the betrayal of one’s body (likely a reference to Stein’s pemphigus condition attacking his skin).

Touring No Exit also fermented worries about Blondie’s legacy. "I don’t wanna appear preposterous on stage," Harry said at the time . In an attempt to defy such expectations, Blondie chose to perform the album’s hip-hop influenced title track during the American Music Awards , even bringing Coolio onstage.

The performance was true Blondie, which had long collaborated with artists of other genres to appeal to new audiences (their "Rapture" featuring Fab Five Freddy being case in point). "I was pleased with the mixed reaction," Stein said after the AMAs. "I’d much rather have us do something controversial than safe."

Today, "No Exit" might sound like a jarring marriage between classical music — with its use of Bach’s "Toccata and Fugue in D minor" — and thumping modern rap, but it isn’t a serious sonic exercise. Blondie instead impishly reminds us of the endless loop ("no exit") of their past music and the music industry, as their famed tunes might as well be as dated as those of the baroque era. The band goes philosophical with the reboot — even nodding to Jean-Paul Sartre’s bleak existential play No Exit — but conversely finds freedom adopting this adage. 

The 1999 regrouping netted Blondie chart success, new fandom, and a world tour. Yet it also brought up some personal problems. In Under a Rock , Stein admitted he was trying to gradually decrease his use of methadone, but touring demands made recovery difficult.

Still, Blondie’s return helped galvanize their popular image as enduring punk and new wave pioneers. (It might not be surprising that no Blondie album since has charted as high as No Exit at No. 18 in the U.S. and No. 3 in the U.K.) The band hasn’t pumped the brakes either, riding the renewed popularity for decades since with new music and tours of the world over.

But No Exit offered audiences something that their four following albums haven't achieved: a cutting and experimental sound that also acknowledged the artifice of the pop rock music they were making. Even recent successes like 2017’s Pollinator sounded fun and youthful, but were a largely series of songs written or co-written by other artists that aimed to appease current pop music tastes. 

The album title might sound suffocating or even nihilistic, but to Blondie No Exit was a belated self-acceptance. "I mean, there is no exit," Harry commented to journalist Michael Hill in 2013 . "You work so hard to establish something, and then that’s it, there you are." 

Twenty-five years on, Blondie showed a dawning new millennium who they were: A punk band who embraced sounds with abandon while celebrating the fantasy of being dissent rock stars. Like reading a sign "last exit before freeway," Blondie saw No Exit as a moment to hit the gas and drive straight on through.    

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Photo: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

GRAMMY Rewind: Kendrick Lamar Honors Hip-Hop's Greats While Accepting Best Rap Album GRAMMY For 'To Pimp a Butterfly' In 2016

Upon winning the GRAMMY for Best Rap Album for 'To Pimp a Butterfly,' Kendrick Lamar thanked those that helped him get to the stage, and the artists that blazed the trail for him.

Updated Friday Oct. 13, 2023 to include info about Kendrick Lamar's most recent GRAMMY wins, as of the 2023 GRAMMYs.

A GRAMMY veteran these days, Kendrick Lamar has won 17 GRAMMYs and has received 47 GRAMMY nominations overall. A sizable chunk of his trophies came from the 58th annual GRAMMY Awards in 2016, when he walked away with five — including his first-ever win in the Best Rap Album category.

This installment of GRAMMY Rewind turns back the clock to 2016, revisiting Lamar's acceptance speech upon winning Best Rap Album for To Pimp A Butterfly . Though Lamar was alone on stage, he made it clear that he wouldn't be at the top of his game without the help of a broad support system. 

"First off, all glory to God, that's for sure," he said, kicking off a speech that went on to thank his parents, who he described as his "those who gave me the responsibility of knowing, of accepting the good with the bad."

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He also extended his love and gratitude to his fiancée, Whitney Alford, and shouted out his Top Dawg Entertainment labelmates. Lamar specifically praised Top Dawg's CEO, Anthony Tiffith, for finding and developing raw talent that might not otherwise get the chance to pursue their musical dreams.

"We'd never forget that: Taking these kids out of the projects, out of Compton, and putting them right here on this stage, to be the best that they can be," Lamar — a Compton native himself — continued, leading into an impassioned conclusion spotlighting some of the cornerstone rap albums that came before To Pimp a Butterfly .

"Hip-hop. Ice Cube . This is for hip-hop," he said. "This is for Snoop Dogg , Doggystyle . This is for Illmatic , this is for Nas . We will live forever. Believe that."

To Pimp a Butterfly singles "Alright" and "These Walls" earned Lamar three more GRAMMYs that night, the former winning Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song and the latter taking Best Rap/Sung Collaboration (the song features Bilal , Anna Wise and Thundercat ). He also won Best Music Video for the remix of Taylor Swift 's "Bad Blood." 

Lamar has since won Best Rap Album two more times, taking home the golden gramophone in 2018 for his blockbuster LP DAMN ., and in 2023 for his bold fifth album, Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers .

Watch Lamar's full acceptance speech above, and check back at GRAMMY.com every Friday for more GRAMMY Rewind episodes. 

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GRAMMY Rewind: Coolio Calls For A United "Hip-Hop Nation" After "Gangsta's Paradise" Wins In 1996

The East Coast rapper took home the GRAMMY for Best Rap Solo Performance for his No. 1 hit "Gangsta's Paradise."

Coolio was living in the "Gangsta's Paradise" of his own creation when the 1996 GRAMMY Awards rolled around. The year before, the ode to hip-hop culture had not only become a global No. 1 hit for the rapper, but also the best-selling song of 1995 in the U.S. And that February night in Los Angeles' Shrine Auditorium, the track won Coolio his first GRAMMY, for Best Rap Solo Performance.

Receiving the trophy from Salt-N-Pepa and Mary J. Blige (clad in head-to-toe leopard print), the rapper emerged from backstage with his overjoyed entourage in tow, and started out his acceptance speech by claiming his GRAMMY "for the whole hip-hop nation."

"West Coast, East Coast, worldwide — united we stand, divided we fall. Recognize," he continued before going on to thank God, his then-fiancée Josefa Salinas and his kids, as well as Stevie Wonder , Quincy Jones , his collaborator L.V. , Michelle Pfeiffer (who starred in the song's music video) and others.

Coolio then ended his remarks on a serious note, acknowledging, "We've had a lil' problem lately in high schools and I only got one ting to say to all my Black and Latino brothers out there fightin': Ain't no gangsters living in paradise."  

During the telecast, Coolio also took to the stage to perform "Gangsta's Paradise," which had earned a second nomination for Record of the Year. (That major award ultimately went to Seal 's "Kiss From a Rose," along with Song of the Year.)

Sadly, the gangsta rap pioneer died in September 2022 at age 59 after suffering an accidental overdose laced with fentanyl. Press play on the video above to revisit Coolio's GRAMMYs win and check GRAMMY.com for more new episodes of GRAMMY Rewind .

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A Guide To Modern Funk For The Dance Floor: L'Imperatrice, Shiro Schwarz, Franc Moody, Say She She & Moniquea

James Brown changed the sound of popular music when he found the power of the one and unleashed the funk with "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag." Today, funk lives on in many forms, including these exciting bands from across the world.

It's rare that a genre can be traced back to a single artist or group, but for funk, that was James Brown . The Godfather of Soul coined the phrase and style of playing known as "on the one," where the first downbeat is emphasized, instead of the typical second and fourth beats in pop, soul and other styles. As David Cheal eloquently explains, playing on the one "left space for phrases and riffs, often syncopated around the beat, creating an intricate, interlocking grid which could go on and on." You know a funky bassline when you hear it; its fat chords beg your body to get up and groove.

Brown's 1965 classic, "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag," became one of the first funk hits, and has been endlessly sampled and covered over the years, along with his other groovy tracks. Of course, many other funk acts followed in the '60s, and the genre thrived in the '70s and '80s as the disco craze came and went, and the originators of hip-hop and house music created new music from funk and disco's strong, flexible bones built for dancing.

Legendary funk bassist Bootsy Collins learned the power of the one from playing in Brown's band, and brought it to George Clinton , who created P-funk, an expansive, Afrofuturistic , psychedelic exploration of funk with his various bands and projects, including Parliament-Funkadelic . Both Collins and Clinton remain active and funkin', and have offered their timeless grooves to collabs with younger artists, including Kali Uchis , Silk Sonic , and Omar Apollo; and Kendrick Lamar , Flying Lotus , and Thundercat , respectively.

In the 1980s, electro-funk was born when artists like Afrika Bambaataa, Man Parrish, and Egyptian Lover began making futuristic beats with the Roland TR-808 drum machine — often with robotic vocals distorted through a talk box. A key distinguishing factor of electro-funk is a de-emphasis on vocals, with more phrases than choruses and verses. The sound influenced contemporaneous hip-hop, funk and electronica, along with acts around the globe, while current acts like Chromeo, DJ Stingray, and even Egyptian Lover himself keep electro-funk alive and well.

Today, funk lives in many places, with its heavy bass and syncopated grooves finding way into many nooks and crannies of music. There's nu-disco and boogie funk, nodding back to disco bands with soaring vocals and dance floor-designed instrumentation. G-funk continues to influence Los Angeles hip-hop, with innovative artists like Dam-Funk and Channel Tres bringing the funk and G-funk, into electro territory. Funk and disco-centered '70s revival is definitely having a moment, with acts like Ghost Funk Orchestra and Parcels , while its sparkly sprinklings can be heard in pop from Dua Lipa , Doja Cat , and, in full "Soul Train" character, Silk Sonic . There are also acts making dreamy, atmospheric music with a solid dose of funk, such as Khruangbin ’s global sonic collage.

There are many bands that play heavily with funk, creating lush grooves designed to get you moving. Read on for a taste of five current modern funk and nu-disco artists making band-led uptempo funk built for the dance floor. Be sure to press play on the Spotify playlist above, and check out GRAMMY.com's playlist on Apple Music , Amazon Music and Pandora .

Say She She

Aptly self-described as "discodelic soul," Brooklyn-based seven-piece Say She She make dreamy, operatic funk, led by singer-songwriters Nya Gazelle Brown, Piya Malik and Sabrina Mileo Cunningham. Their '70s girl group-inspired vocal harmonies echo, sooth and enchant as they cover poignant topics with feminist flair.

While they’ve been active in the New York scene for a few years, they’ve gained wider acclaim for the irresistible music they began releasing this year, including their debut album, Prism . Their 2022 debut single "Forget Me Not" is an ode to ground-breaking New York art collective Guerilla Girls, and " Norma " is their protest anthem in response to the news that Roe vs. Wade could be (and was) overturned. The band name is a nod to funk legend Nile Rodgers , from the "Le freak, c'est chi" exclamation in Chic's legendary tune "Le Freak."

Moniquea 's unique voice oozes confidence, yet invites you in to dance with her to the super funky boogie rhythms. The Pasadena, California artist was raised on funk music; her mom was in a cover band that would play classics like Aretha Franklin’ s "Get It Right" and Gladys Knight ’s "Love Overboard." Moniquea released her first boogie funk track at 20 and, in 2011, met local producer XL Middelton — a bonafide purveyor of funk. She's been a star artist on his MoFunk Records ever since, and they've collabed on countless tracks, channeling West Coast energy with a heavy dose of G-funk, sunny lyrics and upbeat, roller disco-ready rhythms.

Her latest release is an upbeat nod to classic West Coast funk, produced by Middleton, and follows her February 2022 groovy, collab-filled album, On Repeat .

Shiro Schwarz

Shiro Schwarz is a Mexico City-based duo, consisting of Pammela Rojas and Rafael Marfil, who helped establish a modern funk scene in the richly creative Mexican metropolis. On "Electrify" — originally released in 2016 on Fat Beats Records and reissued in 2021 by MoFunk — Shiro Schwarz's vocals playfully contrast each other, floating over an insistent, upbeat bassline and an '80s throwback electro-funk rhythm with synth flourishes.

Their music manages to be both nostalgic and futuristic — and impossible to sit still to. 2021 single "Be Kind" is sweet, mellow and groovy, perfect chic lounge funk. Shiro Schwarz’s latest track, the joyfully nostalgic "Hey DJ," is a collab with funkstress Saucy Lady and U-Key.

L'Impératrice

L'Impératrice (the empress in French) are a six-piece Parisian group serving an infectiously joyful blend of French pop, nu-disco, funk and psychedelia. Flore Benguigui's vocals are light and dreamy, yet commanding of your attention, while lyrics have a feminist touch.

During their energetic live sets, L'Impératrice members Charles de Boisseguin and Hagni Gwon (keys), David Gaugué (bass), Achille Trocellier (guitar), and Tom Daveau (drums) deliver extended instrumental jam sessions to expand and connect their music. Gaugué emphasizes the thick funky bass, and Benguigui jumps around the stage while sounding like an angel. L’Impératrice’s latest album, 2021’s Tako Tsubo , is a sunny, playful French disco journey.

Franc Moody

Franc Moody 's bio fittingly describes their music as "a soul funk and cosmic disco sound." The London outfit was birthed by friends Ned Franc and Jon Moody in the early 2010s, when they were living together and throwing parties in North London's warehouse scene. In 2017, the group grew to six members, including singer and multi-instrumentalist Amber-Simone.

Their music feels at home with other electro-pop bands like fellow Londoners Jungle and Aussie act Parcels. While much of it is upbeat and euphoric, Franc Moody also dips into the more chilled, dreamy realm, such as the vibey, sultry title track from their recently released Into the Ether .

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• 1 Remembering Coolio: 5 Standout Tracks From The Late Rapper’s Discography
• 2 25 Years Later, 'No Exit' Shows Blondie Galvanizing Its Identity
• 3 GRAMMY Rewind: Kendrick Lamar Honors Hip-Hop's Greats While Accepting Best Rap Album GRAMMY For 'To Pimp a Butterfly' In 2016
• 4 GRAMMY Rewind: Coolio Calls For A United "Hip-Hop Nation" After "Gangsta's Paradise" Wins In 1996
• 5 A Guide To Modern Funk For The Dance Floor: L'Imperatrice, Shiro Schwarz, Franc Moody, Say She She & Moniquea