Rascalz
Websites:
https://www.facebook.com/rascalzmusic/about
Origin:
Vancouver, British Columbia, 🇨🇦
Biography:
Rascalz: Pioneers of Canadian Hip-Hop
Rascalz are a legendary Canadian hip-hop group from Vancouver, British Columbia, recognized for their pivotal role in shaping the country's rap scene, particularly on the West Coast. Their influence extended beyond music, as they helped popularize the term “Van City” and brought Canadian hip-hop into the mainstream spotlight.
The group consists of emcees Red1 and Misfit, alongside producer DJ Kemo, with breakdancers Zebroc and Dedos also contributing to their dynamic presence.
Early Years & Breakthrough
Formed in 1991, the Rascalz made their debut with the independent album Really Livin’ on Calabash Records in 1992, originally under the name Ragga Muffin Rascals. The album was later reworked and re-released in 1993 under Sony Music Canada, earning them their first Juno Award nomination for Best Rap Recording.
After parting ways with Sony, the Rascalz founded their own label, Figure IV Records, and signed with BMG Canada, leading to the release of their landmark album Cash Crop in 1997. The album further solidified their reputation as one of Canada’s most important hip-hop acts.
Juno Awards Protest & Industry Impact
In 1998, Cash Crop won the Juno Award for Best Rap Recording, but the category was relegated to an untelevised segment of the awards ceremony. Believing that the exclusion of hip-hop from the main broadcast was rooted in systemic bias, the Rascalz took a stand, publicly rejecting the award. Their protest sparked national debate and ultimately led to the Juno Awards integrating the rap category into the televised ceremony the following year.
The Rise of "Northern Touch"
That same year, Rascalz released "Northern Touch", an electrifying collaboration with Checkmate, Kardinal Offishall, Thrust, and Choclair. The track became a defining anthem for Canadian hip-hop, breaking barriers as one of the first major rap hits in the country since 1991. The song won a Juno Award in 1999 and became the first-ever hip-hop performance at the Junos—a historic moment for the genre in Canada.
Later Releases & Legacy
Riding the wave of success, Rascalz released Global Warning (1999), featuring the hit single "Priceless" with Esthero. Their 2002 album Reloaded included the fan-favorite "Crazy World" (featuring Notch and Sazon Diamante), along with "Top of the World", a collaboration with K-os and Barrington Levy.
Although Rascalz gradually stepped back from producing new music, Red1 pursued a solo career, releasing Beg For Nothing in 2007. In 2019, Really Livin’ was reissued on limited-edition vinyl, marking a resurgence of interest in their early work.
While no longer active as recording artists, the Rascalz continue to perform occasionally and remain highly respected in the Canadian hip-hop scene. Their legacy was further acknowledged in 2021 when their verse from "Blind Wid Da Science" (1997) was sampled on Boslen’s track "Note To The City", marking their first guest feature in over a decade.
A Lasting Influence
Rascalz not only paved the way for a new generation of Canadian rap artists but also helped redefine the perception of hip-hop in the country. Their impact on music, culture, and industry representation continues to resonate, ensuring their place as true pioneers of Canadian hip-hop.
