Two of the Los Angeles-bred group’s singles, “Passin’ Me By” and “Runnin,” earned new certifications from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on April 23rd.
The former was certified platinum and the latter was deemed gold (meaning it sold more than 500,000). Taking to Instagram, Slimkid3 reflected on the monumental milestones and recalled Tupac Shakur telling him the group’s debut album, Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde, should have sold millions of units upon its release in 1992. Their witty lyrics, unconventional flows and soulful beats offered a stark contrast to prevailing trends, opening the gates for a new wave of indie, alternative and “backpack rap” on the West Coast, influencing countless to follow suit. Collaborations with pioneering producers like J Dilla on their second album, Labcabincalifornia, further cemented their reputation for pushing creative boundaries.
The lineup looks slightly different these days, with B##### Brown being the only member not reunited under the Pharcyde umbrella. On Friday (May 2), the trio of Slimkid3, Imani and Fatlip are releasing are the Timeless EP alongside 1999 WRITE THE FUTURE, which boasts four new tracks. They later take off on a tour with Cypress Hill, Atmosphere and Lupe Fiasco beginning August 8 in St. Augustine, Florida. Find more information here.