Wylde Bunch

The Los Angeles-formed alternative hip-hop collective the Wylde Bunch drew positive comparisons to OutKast through its funk-infused, melody-rich sound. Childhood friends who first connected via their school marching band comprised the expansive roster of MCs Tazzo, Speed, Rico, and Yung Dame, guitarist Pops, bassist V. Ray, drummer Ish, keyboardist Daniel, trumpeters Janey and B., saxophonist Corey, and backing vocalists Ken Folk and Byg Sexy. The members maintained intermittent collaborations throughout their separate college years before completing a home demo that attracted notice across the local rap underground. A copy reached Arista A&R executive Kawan Prather, resulting in a recording contract and the 2004 debut album Wylde Times at Washington High. Promotion included opening slots on tours with the Black Eyed Peas and the Beastie Boys, placements on the NBA Live 2005 and Madden NFL 2005 soundtracks, and a successful lawsuit against rapper Coolio for non-payment that aired on Judge Joe Brown. The group returned in 2006 with the EPs In the Meantyme... and Wylde Bunch.