Pharoahe Monch

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Pharoahe Monch

Pharoahe Monch, born Troy Donald Jamerson on October 31, 1972, is an American rapper who has captivated hip-hop fans with his complex lyrics, intricate delivery, and multisyllabic rhyme schemes. Monch’s career began as part of the influential duo Organized Konfusion in the 1990s, where he gained the respect and admiration of both underground and mainstream followers. Over the years, Monch has evolved as an artist, exploring various styles and themes in his music, solidifying his reputation as a skilled and adaptable lyricist.

After Organized Konfusion disbanded, Monch embarked on a solo career, debuting with the critically acclaimed album “Internal Affairs” in 1999. This album featured his best-known single, “Simon Says,” which showcased his ability to blend a hard-hitting beat with clever wordplay. Monch went on to release several more albums, such as “Desire,” “W.A.R,” and “PTSD,” each demonstrating his continued growth and mastery of his craft.

As one of hip hop’s most talented figures, Pharoahe Monch continues to leave an indelible mark on the music industry. His unique style and innovative approach to lyricism showcased in his diverse discography have undoubtedly solidified his position as a respected artist in hip hop.

Pharoahe Monch

Early Life and Career

Organized Konfusion

Troy Donald Jamerson, better known by his stage name Pharoahe Monch, was born on October 31, 1972, in Queens, New York. He grew up passionate about rap and engaged in “rap jams” around his neighborhood. This passion led him to become a prominent rapper known for his complex lyrics and intricate delivery.

In the early 1990s, Pharoahe Monch formed the duo Organized Konfusion with Prince Poetry. They rapidly developed a reputation in underground hip-hop as skilled lyricists, blending intelligent rap with innovative beats. From 1991 to 1997, Organized Konfusion released three albums that showcased their unique sound and style.

Working together in Organized Konfusion allowed Pharoahe Monch to refine his multisyllabic rhyme schemes while collaborating with Prince Poetry. Despite their success, the duo amicably split up after their third album, allowing Monch to pursue his solo career with a more aggressive style on Rawkus Records.

As a rapper, Pharoahe Monch continued to demonstrate his prowess in the hip-hop scene by weaving advanced storytelling with personal experiences and social commentary throughout his lyrics. His dedication to the craft has solidified his status as a respected figure within the hip-hop community.

Solo Career

Internal Affairs

Pharoahe Monch’s solo career started with the release of his debut album, Internal Affairs, in 1999. The album featured the hit single “Simon Says,” which gained widespread popularity and helped establish Monch as a solo artist in the hip-hop scene. Internal Affairs showcased Monch’s complex lyrics, intricate delivery, and internal and multisyllabic rhyme schemes that set him apart from other rappers.

Desire

In 2007, Monch released his second solo album, Desire. The album’s title track demonstrated his continued evolution as a lyricist and rapper, with themes exploring deep emotions and desires. Desire included collaborations with various artists, further solidifying Monch’s presence in the rap and hip-hop community.

W.A.R. (We Are Renegades)

Pharoahe Monch’s third studio album, W.A.R. (We Are Renegades), was released in 2011. The album featured guest appearances by notable artists such as Jill Scott, Jean Grae, and Immortal Technique. With its politically charged lyrics and themes, W.A.R. showcased Monch’s dedication to addressing social and political issues in his music.

PTSD: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Continuing his exploration of provocative themes, Monch’s fourth studio album, PTSD: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, was released in 2014. The album delved into Monch’s struggles with depression and anxiety, underlining his willingness to share vulnerable aspects of his life through his music. PTSD further established Monch’s unique voice and position as an influential figure in rap and hip-hop.

Th1rt3en – A Magnificent Day for an Exorcism

In 2021, Pharoahe Monch formed a new group called Th1rt3en, which consists of Monch himself, guitarist Marcus Machado, and drummer Daru Jones. Together, they released the album A Magnificent Day for an Exorcism. The project showcases the fusion of Monch’s intricate rap skills with heavy rock-influenced instrumentals. Th1rt3en’s debut album added another dimension to Monch’s impressive repertoire, further solidifying his impact on rap and hip-hop.

Notable Collaborations

Pharoahe Monch, born Troy Donald Jamerson, is an American rapper from South Jamaica, Queens, New York. Throughout his career, he has worked with several high-profile artists in the hip-hop industry. This section will discuss some of his notable collaborations with artists such as Styles P, Marco Polo, Jill Scott, Macy Gray, Immortal Technique, Phonte, and Brother Ali.

One notable collaboration Pharoahe Monch has had with Styles P, a fellow American rapper, on the song “My Life,” released in 2007. This track highlights both artists’ struggles and experiences in their lives and careers, showcasing their impressive lyrical skills and storytelling abilities.

Pharoahe Monch has also worked with Canadian hip-hop producer Marco Polo on the song “War,” released in 2010. The track showcases Monch’s complex rhyme schemes and intricate delivery, complemented by Marco Polo’s hard-hitting and dynamic beats.

In 2011, Monch released his album “W.A.R. (We Are Renegades),” featuring collaborations with various artists, including Jill Scott and Macy Gray. Jill Scott, a renowned R&B singer, contributed to the soulful track “Still Standing,” while Macy Gray, known for her unique voice and style, provided vocals on the song “Black Hand Side.”

Pharoahe Monch has a history of working with socially conscious rappers in the hip-hop community. One of these collaborations was with Immortal Technique, a well-respected underground rapper, on the track “W.A.R.” in 2013. The song addresses political issues and emphasizes the importance of resilience in adversity.

Monch also collaborated with Phonte, an American rapper, and singer, on the song “Home or Away” in 2011, which reflects both artists’ dedication to their craft. Furthermore, in 2014, Pharoahe Monch teamed up with Brother Ali, an American rapper, and member of the Rhymesayers collective, on the track “Fence Walk” featured on Monch’s album “PTSD: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.”

In conclusion, Pharoahe Monch’s collaborations have allowed him to showcase his incredible lyrical abilities and share his unique perspective with a diverse array of artists in the music industry. These collaborations have allowed him to express his views on various social and political issues and contributed to his discography’s overall richness and depth.

Discography

Albums

Pharoahe Monch, an American rapper from Queens, NYC, has released four studio albums during his career. His first album, “Internal Affairs,” gained attention with the hit single “Simon Says” in 1999. He followed this with “Desire” in 2007, which included a gospel touch on some tracks and featured collaborations with producers like Diamond D. Monch’s third album, “W.A.R. (We Are Renegades)”, was released in 2011, and his latest release is “PTSD: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder” from 2014. In addition to his solo albums, Monch was also one half of the hip-hop duo Organized Konfusion, which released the album “Stress: The Extinction Agenda” in 1994.

Singles

Pharoahe Monch has had several singles throughout his career. Some of his most notable singles include:

  • Simon Says: A hit from his debut album “Internal Affairs,” which gained widespread attention.
  • Oh No: Monch collaborated with Mos Def and Nate Dogg in this 2000 song released under the Street Records Corporation label.
  • Stray Bullet: A track from Organized Konfusion’s “Stress: The Extinction Agenda” album, showcasing Monch’s complex lyrics and storytelling.
  • Shine: A single from the 2007 album “Desire” featuring Diamond D’s production.
  • Clap (One Day): A song from his “W.A.R. (We Are Renegades)” album, reflecting on societal issues and the need for change.
  • Black Hand Side: A track from the 2011 album, “W.A.R. (We Are Renegades),” featuring Styles P and Phonte.

Mixtapes

Pharoahe Monch has also released two mixtapes in his career. In collaboration with th1rt3en, he released “A Magnificent Day for an Exorcism” in January 2021. Additionally, he has contributed to numerous guest appearances on other artists’ tracks, showcasing his versatile talent and ability to adapt to various styles within the hip-hop genre.

Lyrical Style and Themes

Pharoahe Monch, born Troy Donald Jamerson on October 31, 1972, is a renowned rapper from Queens, New York. He gained recognition for his intricate lyrics, complex delivery, and internal and multisyllabic rhyme schemes. Monch’s unique style has remained consistent since his days in the 90s duo Organized Konfusion alongside Prince Poetry.

As a solo artist, Pharoahe Monch continued exploring different musical themes. He is known for incorporating elements of gospel into his tracks, as evident in his 2007 album Desire. The album showcases Monch’s ability to blend his hip-hop origins with gospel-influenced beats, which helped set his work apart from others in the genre. Notable tracks like “When the Gun Draws” address critical political issues, showcasing his commitment to using his platform and artistry for meaningful change.

Damage, another track by Monch, delves into the consequences of violence and its impact on individuals and society. As a lyricist, Monch weaves intricate stories and explores critical themes, ranging from personal emotions to broader societal concerns. This has helped solidify his reputation as an influential artist within the rap and hip-hop scenes.

Pharoahe Monch’s multifaceted approach to his music and willingness to incorporate various styles result in a distinct and powerful sound, capturing listeners’ attention. Despite changes in the music landscape over the years, Monch’s dedication to his craft and focus on substance and style remain a constant in his work as a rap and hip-hop artist.

Social Impact and Legacy

Pharoahe Monch, born Troy Donald Jamerson on October 31, 1972, is an American rapper known for his complex lyrics, intricate delivery, and internal and multisyllabic rhyme schemes. His contributions to hip-hop have left a lasting impact on the music industry and influenced many artists who have come after him.

One of Pharoahe Monch’s most notable tracks is “Push,” which showcases his exceptional wordplay and ability to craft engaging and thought-provoking lyrics. His skill in unifying various elements of hip-hop, such as rhythm, storytelling, and lyrical structure, has made him a respected figure within the genre.

Pharoahe Monch has also been known to collaborate with other hip-hop artists like Cypress Hill, showcasing his versatility and adaptability in working with different styles and sounds. In songs like “Bad M.F” and “Same Sh!t, Different Toilet,” Pharoahe Monch demonstrates his ability to switch between aggressive and introspective rap styles, further solidifying his reputation as a multifaceted artist.

Moreover, his collaborations with producers like Lee Stone and musicians like Keyon Harrold have contributed to his ever-evolving sound and the enrichment of hip-hop. These collaborations have helped create a diverse body of work that pushes the boundaries of what is expected in the genre.

Throughout his career, Pharoahe Monch has used his platform to address social issues and spread awareness about topics such as mental health. For example, he has openly discussed his mental health struggles and used his music as a medium for self-reflection and healing.

In conclusion, the social impact and legacy of Pharoahe Monch are evident in his diverse body of work, his collaborations with other artists, and his contributions to raising awareness about important social issues. His unique style, ability to connect with listeners, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of hip-hop have cemented his place as a trailblazer in the genre.

Guest Appearances and Side Projects

Pharoahe Monch, known for his complex lyrics and intricate delivery, has had an extensive career in hip-hop, collaborating with various artists and contributing to different projects. While primarily performing as a solo artist, Monch has also been part of groups like Organized Konfusion alongside rapper Prince Po.

One notable project Monch was involved in is the 1996 Organized Konfusion album “The Equinox.” This concept album explores various themes, including an assassin duo’s journey through the underworld. Monch and Prince Po’s creative partnership showcased their impressive skills as lyricists, with tracks that featured intricate wordplay and complex rhyme schemes.

In addition to his work with Organized Konfusion, Monch appeared as a featured artist on several tracks of noteworthy albums like Lyricist Lounge 2, a compilation project released in 2000 that highlighted pivotal performances from hip-hop’s underground scene. Monch held his own alongside other talented rappers, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled lyricist.

Pharoahe Monch has also made noteworthy guest appearances on tracks such as “Last Dayz” and “It Ain’t the Money.” However, not just guest appearances have enhanced Monch’s career; his solo releases have received critical acclaim, including the bold and provocative track “F**k You” from his 1999 album “Internal Affairs.” This song gained attention due to its controversial lyrical content and Monch’s fearless approach to addressing societal issues.

In recent years, Pharoahe Monch has been involved in side projects like the group “th1rt3en” and the album “A Magnificent Day for an Exorcism,” released in 2021. Known for pushing boundaries and experimenting with his music, Monch continues contributing to projects showcasing his unique abilities as a rapper and lyricist.

While it’s easy to get lost in the impressive guest appearances and side projects throughout Pharoahe Monch’s career, one thing remains certain: his talent as a lyricist and performer has left an indelible mark on the landscape of hip-hop music.

Personal Life and Opinions

Pharoahe Monch, born Troy Donald Jamerson on October 31, 1972, hails from South Jamaica, Queens, New York. He is an American rapper well-known for his intricate lyrical style and complex delivery. Monch’s career took off as part of the rap duo Organized Konfusion before he eventually pursued a successful solo career.

In various interviews, Pharoahe Monch has expressed his love for the art of hip-hop and the creative process behind it. He has consistently emphasized the importance of staying true to oneself and not compromising artistic integrity for fame or monetary gain. This commitment to authenticity is evident in Monch’s refusal to sell out and produce superficial, commercially-driven music.

Monch has collaborated with several notable artists and producers from the legendary rap group Public Enemy, including Chuck D. He has also shown an appreciation for music beyond hip-hop, expressing his admiration for bands like Radiohead and drawing inspiration from various genres.

Pharoahe Monch’s complex, thought-provoking lyrics often touch on personal experiences and opinions. Mental health is a recurring theme in his music, as he bravely opens up about his struggles with anxiety and depression. In 2021, Monch participated in a video for Sound Mind, discussing the importance of mental health awareness and self-care for artists in the industry.

Regarding his online presence, Monch maintains an active YouTube channel, sharing music videos, interviews, and behind-the-scenes content, providing fans insight into his life and artistic process. Through his years of dedication to his craft, Pharoahe Monch has built a loyal fan base that appreciates his unwavering commitment to genuine, thought-provoking hip-hop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Monch from?

Pharoahe Monch, born Troy Donald Jamerson, hails from South Jamaica, Queens, New York. Before going solo, he started his career as part of the rap duo Organized Konfusion.

What song sampled Godzilla?

Pharoahe Monch’s 1999 hit single “Simon Says” sampled the Godzilla theme, specifically a piece called “Gojira Tai Mosura” from the 1964 Japanese film Mothra vs. Godzilla. The song’s beat used the sample, giving it a distinct and recognizable sound.

How many albums were released?

Throughout his career, Pharoahe Monch has released four solo studio albums. These albums are Internal Affairs (1999), Desire (2007), W.A.R. (We Are Renegades) (2011), and PTSD: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (2014).

Monch’s famous collaborations?

Pharoahe Monch has collaborated with numerous artists over the years. Some notable examples include “Oh No” with Mos Def and Nate Dogg, “The Life” with Styles P, and “Black Hand Side” with Styles P and Phonte. He has also worked with Talib Kweli, Common, Erykah Badu, and many other talented musicians.

Any Grammy nominations?

Pharoahe Monch has not received any Grammy nominations as a solo artist. However, his critical acclaim and respected status within the hip-hop community have earned him a reputation as a highly skilled and influential rapper.

Notable music influences?

While there isn’t a definitive list of Pharoahe Monch’s musical influences, his complex lyrics, intricate delivery, and multisyllabic rhyme schemes have garnered him comparisons to legendary artists like Rakim and Kool G Rap. Additionally, Monch has expressed admiration for fellow MCs such as Nas and Big Daddy Kane in past interviews. These artists, along with his own experiences and the rich hip-hop culture of New York City, have undoubtedly shaped his distinctive style and approach to music.