Digable

Digable was a New York City-based hip-hop trio consisting of Ishmael Butler, Mary Ann Vieira, and Craig Irving. The group formed in 1991 and released their debut album, "Reachin' (A New Refutation of Time and Speed)," in 1993. Their music was characterized by a smooth, jazz-influenced sound, often incorporating samples from classic jazz recordings. Lyrically, Digable Planets explored themes of social consciousness, Black culture, and everyday life in a laid-back, conversational style.

Their most commercially successful single was "Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat)," which became a crossover hit and earned them a Grammy Award nomination. The song's distinctive bassline and sophisticated production helped define the burgeoning jazz rap subgenre. Following their debut, the group released "Blowout Comb" in 1994, which showcased a more experimental and politically charged approach. Despite critical acclaim, the album did not achieve the same commercial success as their first.

Digable Planets disbanded in 1995, though members have pursued individual projects and occasional reunions. Their innovative fusion of hip-hop and jazz left a lasting impact on the genre, influencing subsequent artists and solidifying their place as important figures in 1990s alternative hip-hop.