On this day in 1994, Pete Rock and CL Smooth released their second and final studio album, The Main Ingredient, through Elektra Records. Today marks the 31st anniversary of this timeless classic that ...

Today, we celebrate the 57th birthday of one of hip hop’s most respected lyricists and a cornerstone of the golden era sound; CL Smooth. Born Corey Brent Penn Sr. on October 8, 1968, the New Rochelle, ...

On this week’s episode of “Drink Champs,” N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN were joined by revered rapper CL Smooth. Coming up in Mount Vernon, New York, CL Smooth met Pete Rock in high school and together, they ...

Albums like To Pimp a Butterfly and 1999 blend jazz harmonies with sharp lyricism, proving the genre’s deep connection. Hip-hop may keep evolving, but funk and jazz remain its heartbeat, fueling its ...

Michael Franks’ music career predates the rise of both hip-hop and smooth jazz. But he has long been embraced by both worlds, much to the surprise of the veteran singer and writer of such enduring ...