The Fat Boys

The Fat Boys, a celebrated hip-hop trio originating from Brooklyn, New York, emerged onto the scene in the early 1980s. Originally named the Disco 3, the group was composed of Mark “Prince Markie Dee” Morales, Damon “Kool Rock-Ski” Wimbley, and Darren “Buff Love” Robinson. Renowned for their innovative incorporation of beatboxing in their songs, they not only influenced fellow beatboxers like Biz Markie and Doug E. Fresh but also paved the way for the mainstream recognition of this art form. With their captivating blend of humor, charisma, and rhythm, they were among the pioneers to release full-length rap albums.

The Fat Boys’ musical journey encompassed a series of albums that showcased their exceptional versatility. Their first two albums, under the production of Kurtis Blow, yielded hits such as “Jail House Rap,” “Can You Feel It?,” and “The Fat Boys Are Back.” The milestone “Crushin'” album achieved platinum status, driven by the success of the hit single “Wipeout,” a remarkable collaboration with The Beach Boys. The group’s influence extended beyond their musical endeavors as they ventured into the world of film, starring in notable features like “Krush Groove,” “Knights of the City,” and “Disorderlies,” further cementing their imprint on popular culture.

Tragically, the group experienced the loss of two of its members. The passing of Darren “Buff Love” Robinson due to a heart attack in 1995 marked a significant loss for the hip-hop community. Additionally, Mark “Prince Markie Dee” Morales passed away in 2021, just before his 53rd birthday. Despite these heart-wrenching losses, The Fat Boys’ legacy endures as pioneers who helped shape the early years of hip-hop, pushing boundaries and bringing rap music into the mainstream spotlight. With their engaging humor, beatboxing mastery, and trailblazing collaborations, they’ve left an everlasting mark on the world of music.