Advertisements

The Treacherous Three’s 13 Essential Hip-Hop Tracks Recommended

by Barbara
The Treacherous Three

When we think of the golden age of hip-hop, we often think of artists and groups that laid the foundation for the genre’s commercial success and cultural influence. The Treacherous Three, comprised of Kool Moe Dee, L.A. Sunshine, and Special K, is one of those groups. Emerging from the streets of the Bronx, the group was known for its smooth yet rugged style, combining fast-paced rapping with charismatic delivery. Their tracks offered a reflection of life in the early 1980s, blending fun, danceable beats with thought-provoking lyrics.

Throughout their career, The Treacherous Three released several influential songs that are still celebrated by hip-hop fans and historians alike. Many of their tracks are noted for their complex rhymes, infectious hooks, and creative use of samples—attributes that were groundbreaking at the time. Despite not reaching the mainstream heights of later groups, The Treacherous Three’s contributions remain vital to understanding the evolution of hip-hop. In this article, we take a closer look at 15 of their best tracks.

Advertisements

The Treacherous Three’s 13 Essential Hip-Hop Tracks Recommended

1. “The Body Rock

“The Body Rock” was one of The Treacherous Three’s breakout hits. Released in 1980, the track helped define the early sound of hip-hop with its catchy hook, energetic delivery, and infectious beat. The song features a simple yet powerful bassline and rhythmic rapping that encourages listeners to get up and move. The track is a celebration of dance and good times, highlighting the group’s ability to make hip-hop fun and accessible. “The Body Rock” became an instant classic, representing the party-centric ethos that was central to early hip-hop culture. The Treacherous Three’s chemistry as a group is evident here, with each member delivering tight, synchronized verses that match the song’s lively tone.

Advertisements

2. “Christmas Rappin’”

“Christmas Rappin’” is one of the group’s most beloved tracks, despite its release being seasonal. The song, released in 1980, blends hip-hop with holiday cheer, creating a unique and memorable take on Christmas music. With its jazzy instrumental and playful rhymes, “Christmas Rappin’” helped solidify The Treacherous Three’s position in hip-hop history. The track’s narrative, which tells a Christmas story with humor and flair, captures the spirit of the era—highlighting the cultural significance of hip-hop as an emerging form of self-expression. The song’s success proved that hip-hop could be more than just a genre; it could serve as a vessel for creativity, humor, and cultural commentary.

Advertisements

3. “Whodini – Friends (Remix)”

Although not originally by The Treacherous Three, their remix of Whodini’s “Friends” is an example of how the group could take a popular track and inject their own energy into it. Released in 1984, the remix stands out for its smooth yet impactful rap verses that complement Whodini’s original vocals. The Treacherous Three’s version brought an added layer of complexity to the track with their signature lyrical style and unique contributions. The remix captured the emerging camaraderie within the hip-hop scene, reflecting the idea of friendship, loyalty, and respect that was central to the culture at the time. It’s a perfect example of how collaborations in early hip-hop led to the genre’s growth and diversification.

4. “Yes We Can Can”

Released in 1981, “Yes We Can Can” is a track that showcases The Treacherous Three’s flair for social commentary. With its catchy refrain and upbeat vibe, the song discusses the importance of perseverance, unity, and overcoming obstacles. The track uses the iconic phrase “Yes We Can,” which was later famously utilized by President Barack Obama, to inspire listeners to keep fighting for their dreams. The song’s upbeat, bouncy instrumental blends perfectly with the group’s smooth delivery, making it an empowering anthem for fans of early hip-hop. The track’s positive message resonated deeply with its audience, highlighting how hip-hop could serve as both entertainment and a source of motivation.

5. “Action”

“Action,” released in 1984, is one of The Treacherous Three’s most high-energy tracks. The song features a punchy beat and quick-paced rhymes that match the action-packed lyrics. The track emphasizes fast rapping, with each member delivering rapid-fire verses that demonstrate their lyrical skill. The song’s theme revolves around a desire for action and excitement, making it a perfect fit for the hip-hop scene’s vibrant energy. The catchy chorus and fast-paced tempo made “Action” a favorite among fans, showcasing The Treacherous Three’s ability to balance technical rap skills with infectious hooks.

6. “New Rap Language”

“New Rap Language” is a quintessential track that exemplifies The Treacherous Three’s innovative approach to rhyming. Released in 1982, the song explores the idea of language and communication through the lens of hip-hop, featuring intricate rhyme schemes and wordplay that was ahead of its time. The song’s beat is funky and fast, matching the urgency and complexity of the lyrics. With “New Rap Language,” The Treacherous Three not only solidified their status as lyrical innovators but also showcased the creative potential of hip-hop as a means of self-expression and cultural commentary. The track is a perfect example of the group’s contribution to the evolution of rhyme and rhythm in hip-hop.

7. “Rappers’ Delight” (Live Version)

While not their original composition, The Treacherous Three’s live version of “Rappers’ Delight” is a perfect demonstration of their stage presence and lyrical dexterity. Performing alongside The Sugarhill Gang, they added their own energetic spin to the track, injecting their fast-paced style and charismatic delivery. Their live version takes the song to new heights with tight, energetic rhymes and an enthusiastic performance. The Treacherous Three’s live presence was one of the reasons they became so popular, as they brought a unique energy to every stage they performed on. This version of “Rappers’ Delight” showcases the group’s ability to shine in a collaborative setting while still maintaining their individuality.

8. “Merry-Go-Round”

“Merry-Go-Round,” released in 1982, is one of The Treacherous Three’s most memorable tracks. The song is a classic example of their ability to blend fun, playful lyrics with deep, introspective themes. The track discusses the cyclical nature of life and the struggles that come with it, using the metaphor of a merry-go-round to represent the ups and downs that individuals face. The upbeat instrumental contrasts with the song’s more serious themes, creating an engaging and thought-provoking listening experience. “Merry-Go-Round” stands as a testament to the group’s ability to blend storytelling with catchy hooks and complex rhyme schemes.

9. “The Best Disco in Town”

“The Best Disco in Town” was released in 1980 and is a standout track in The Treacherous Three’s catalog. The song merges disco rhythms with early hip-hop, creating a danceable yet lyrically rich track that was a huge hit in the club scene. The lyrics describe a night out in the city, celebrating the joys of partying and living life to the fullest. The energetic beat and catchy chorus made it a favorite in clubs, while the group’s witty, smooth rapping made it a classic in the hip-hop world. “The Best Disco in Town” exemplifies The Treacherous Three’s ability to fuse different musical genres, showcasing their versatility and creativity.

10. “Punk Rock Rap”

Released in 1983, “Punk Rock Rap” is an example of The Treacherous Three’s ability to experiment with different musical styles. The song combines elements of punk rock with traditional hip-hop, creating a gritty, high-energy track that stands out in the group’s catalog. The lyrics focus on the rebellious nature of punk rock, infused with the group’s hip-hop perspective on life. The song is fast-paced, with aggressive rapping and raw energy that perfectly match its punk-inspired instrumentation. “Punk Rock Rap” highlights The Treacherous Three’s ability to push boundaries and experiment with the fusion of genres.

11. “How Do You Like Me Now?”

“How Do You Like Me Now?” is a track from 1984 that sees The Treacherous Three adopting a more confident, self-assured tone. The song’s lyrics focus on themes of success and recognition, with the group addressing their critics and proving their worth in the hip-hop game. The beat is bold and assertive, mirroring the song’s lyrical content. The Treacherous Three’s delivery is energetic and full of bravado, making it a perfect anthem for anyone overcoming obstacles or proving themselves to the world. “How Do You Like Me Now?” is a standout track that showcases the group’s confidence and growth as artists.

12. “The Treacherous Three”

Self-titled “The Treacherous Three,” this track is a celebration of the group’s unique style and contributions to hip-hop. The song showcases each member’s individual skills, with each verse representing their distinctive personalities and lyrical abilities. The beat is a solid, steady rhythm that allows the group’s voices to take center stage, while the lyrics focus on their journey in the hip-hop world. The song’s catchy hook and clever rhymes make it a fun and memorable track that pays tribute to their legacy in the genre.

13. “Funky 4 + 1”

A collaboration with Funky 4 + 1, this track blends the best elements of both groups, resulting in a high-energy anthem for the hip-hop community. Released in 1980, “Funky 4 + 1” highlights the fusion of different sounds and styles that defined early hip-hop. The track’s infectious beat, combined with the collaborative spirit of the two groups, showcases the sense of community that was central to the genre in its formative years. The song became a hit for its funky groove and catchy lyrics, and it remains an important piece in the history of hip-hop collaborations.

See Also: Why Do People Think Hip-Hop Is Not Music?

Conclusion

The Treacherous Three played a critical role in the early days of hip-hop, bringing a unique combination of lyrical dexterity, catchy hooks, and party-ready beats. Their tracks are a testament to the creative spirit that defined hip-hop in its formative years. From tracks like “The Body Rock” to “Rappers’ Delight,” The Treacherous Three helped shape the sound of hip-hop and influence generations of artists to come. While their mainstream success may have been limited compared to other groups, their contributions to the genre cannot be overstated. The Treacherous Three’s music continues to inspire and entertain, ensuring that their legacy remains firmly rooted in hip-hop history.

Related Topics

Unveiling the 5 Rules of Hip Hop: You Need to Know

12 Must-Listen Southern Hip Hop Tracks Revealed

Busta Rhymes’ 8 Energetic Hip-Hop Tracks to Listen

related articles

Dive into the enchanting world of music at OurMusicWorld.com, your ultimate destination for discovering new and diverse sounds. From emerging artists to timeless classics, embark on a musical journey that transcends genres and captivates your senses.

Copyright © 2023 ourmusicworld.com