Outkast is a legendary hip-hop duo that emerged in the 1990s and went on to become one of the most successful and influential acts of all time. Comprised of André 3000 and Big Boi, the group’s unique sound and style earned them a massive following and numerous awards and accolades throughout their career. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 most interesting facts about Outkast.
10 – They were high school friends.
André 3000 (born André Benjamin) and Big Boi (born Antwan Patton) first met in high school in Atlanta, Georgia. They quickly became friends and started making music together, eventually forming Outkast in 1992.
09 – Their first album was a commercial flop.
Outkast’s debut album, “Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik,” was released in 1994 to critical acclaim but poor sales. However, the album’s success on the underground hip-hop scene caught the attention of mainstream audiences, and the duo’s popularity began to grow.
08 – They popularized the “Dirty South” sound.
Outkast’s music incorporated elements of funk, soul, and Southern hip-hop, which they dubbed the “Dirty South” sound. This style of music went on to influence a whole generation of hip-hop artists and became a defining characteristic of the genre in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
07 – They won Album of the Year at the Grammys.
In 2004, Outkast won the coveted Album of the Year award at the Grammy Awards for their double album “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below.” The album featured hit singles like “Hey Ya!” and “Roses” and showcased the duo’s musical versatility.
06 – André 3000 is a talented actor.
In addition to his music career, André 3000 has also dabbled in acting. He has appeared in films like “Be Cool,” “Four Brothers,” and “Semi-Pro,” and his performances have been praised by critics.
05 – They had a bitter feud with their label.
In the early 2000s, Outkast had a falling out with their record label, LaFace Records, over creative differences and contractual issues. The duo filed a lawsuit against the label and eventually won, paving the way for other artists to have more control over their music.
04 – They have a history of collaborating with other artists.
Outkast has collaborated with a wide range of artists throughout their career, including Sleepy Brown, Killer Mike, Janelle Monáe, and Erykah Badu. They have also worked with producers like Organized Noize, who helped to shape their unique sound.
03 – They were inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.
In 2007, Outkast was inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, cementing their status as one of the most important musical acts to come out of the state.
02 – Their music has been featured in numerous films and TV shows.
Outkast’s music has been featured in a wide range of films and TV shows, including “The Office,” “Big Little Lies,” and “Black Panther.” Their songs have also been used in commercials and video games.
01 – They have been on hiatus since 2007.
After releasing their album “Idlewild” in 2006, Outkast went on an extended hiatus. While both André 3000 and Big Boi have pursued solo projects, fans are still hoping for a reunion from the iconic duo.
In conclusion, Outkast is a legendary hip-hop duo that has had an indelible impact on the genre. Their unique sound, innovative style, and musical collaborations have earned them a massive following and numerous awards and accolades. From their humble beginnings as high school friends to their bitter feud with their label and induction into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, Outkast’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and triumph. Even though they have been on hiatus since 2007, their music continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world, and their legacy as one of the greatest hip-hop acts of all time is firmly cemented in history.