Hip Hop Museum Inductees

NICE & SMOOTH

Nice & Smooth is an influential hip-hop duo consisting of Greg Nice (Greg Mays) and Smooth B (Daryl Barnes), known for their smooth flows, catchy hooks, and innovative production. Emerging from New York City's vibrant hip-hop scene in the late 1980s, Nice & Smooth made a significant impact with their distinct style and energetic performances.

Greg Nice and Smooth B first crossed paths as teenagers in the early 1980s, bonding over their shared love of music and hip-hop culture. Drawing inspiration from pioneers like Run-DMC and Grandmaster Flash, they began honing their skills as MCs and performers, eventually forming Nice & Smooth in the mid-1980s.

In 1989, Nice & Smooth released their debut album, "Nice & Smooth," which showcased their unique blend of playful lyricism and funky beats. The album featured standout tracks such as "Early to Rise" and "Funky for You," establishing Nice & Smooth as rising stars in the hip-hop world. However, it was their sophomore effort that catapulted them to mainstream success.

In 1991, Nice & Smooth released their second album, "Ain't a Damn Thing Changed," which became a commercial and critical success. The album spawned several hit singles, including "Sometimes I Rhyme Slow," a poignant and introspective track that showcased Smooth B's storytelling prowess, and "Hip Hop Junkies," a party anthem that solidified their reputation as crowd-pleasers.

Throughout the 1990s, Nice & Smooth continued to release music and collaborate with other artists, further solidifying their status as hip-hop icons. They collaborated with legendary producers and artists such as Pete Rock & CL Smooth and Gang Starr, contributing to classic albums and singles that shaped the golden era of hip-hop.

Nice & Smooth's impact on hip-hop extends beyond their own music, with their influence felt in the work of subsequent generations of artists. Their smooth flows, catchy hooks, and dynamic stage presence helped pave the way for the evolution of hip-hop and continue to inspire artists today.

Despite their success, Nice & Smooth remained true to their roots, staying connected to their fans and community while maintaining their distinctive sound and style. Their legacy as pioneers in hip-hop endures, with their music continuing to resonate with audiences worldwide and their influence shaping the genre for years to come.