C.L. Smooth Quotes
- Rapper
- 1968
C.L. Smooth is an American rapper and hip-hop artist known for his smooth flow and introspective lyrics. He rose to fame in the 1990s as one half of the duo Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth, with hits such as “They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.)” and “Straighten It Out.” SmoothR…Read More
C.L. Smooth is an American rapper and hip-hop artist known for his smooth flow and introspective lyrics. He rose to fame in the 1990s as one half of the duo Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth, with hits such as “They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.)” and “Straighten It Out.” Smooth’s solo career includes the critically acclaimed album “The Main Ingredient” and collaborations with artists like Kanye West and J Dilla. He is known for his socially conscious and thought-provoking rhymes, making him a respected figure in the hip-hop community.Read Less
C.L. Smooth is an American rapper and hip-hop artist known for his smooth flow and introspective lyrics. He rose to fame in the 1990s as one half of the duo Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth, with hits such as “They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.)” and “Straighten It Out.” Smooth’s solo career includes the critically acclaimed album “The Main Ingredient” and collaborations with artists like Kanye West and J Dilla. He is known for his socially conscious and thought-provoking rhymes, making him a respected figure in the hip-hop community.
C.L. Smooth Career Highlights
C.L. Smooth, born Corey Brent Penn, is an American rapper and hip-hop artist who rose to fame in the 1990s as one half of the duo Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth. He began his career in the late 1980s, performing at local parties and clubs in his hometown of Mount Vernon, New York. In 1991, he and producer Pete Rock released their debut album, “All Souled Out,” which received critical acclaim and established them as one of the most promising acts in hip-hop.
Their second album, “Mecca and the Soul Brother,” was released in 1992 and became a commercial success, reaching number 42 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album’s lead single, “They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.),” is considered a hip-hop classic and is often cited as one of the greatest rap songs of all time. The duo’s third and final album, “The Main Ingredient,” was released in 1994 and also received positive reviews.
After the duo’s split in 1995, C.L. Smooth embarked on a solo career, releasing his debut album “American Me” in 2006. He has since released several solo projects, including the critically acclaimed “The Outsider” in 2007 and “The Emancipation of Corey Penn” in 2010.
Key Contributions by C.L. Smooth
C.L. Smooth’s smooth flow and soulful lyrics have been a major contribution to the hip-hop genre. He is known for his introspective and socially conscious rhymes, often addressing issues such as poverty, racism, and police brutality. His collaboration with producer Pete Rock also played a significant role in shaping the sound of 1990s hip-hop, with their use of jazz and soul samples and intricate production techniques.
C.L. Smooth’s solo career has also been marked by collaborations with other notable artists, including Kanye West, J Dilla, and DJ Premier. He has also been featured on tracks by artists such as Nas, Jay-Z, and The Notorious B.I.G., solidifying his status as a respected and influential figure in the hip-hop community.
What Sets C.L. Smooth Apart
One of the key factors that sets C.L. Smooth apart from other rappers is his smooth and melodic flow. He has a unique ability to seamlessly blend his rhymes with the beats, creating a harmonious and captivating sound. His introspective and socially conscious lyrics also set him apart, as he often uses his platform to shed light on important issues and inspire change.
C.L. Smooth’s longevity in the hip-hop industry is also noteworthy. Despite the changing trends and evolving sound of hip-hop, he has remained relevant and respected throughout the years, continuously releasing quality music and collaborating with both established and up-and-coming artists.
Takeaways
C.L. Smooth’s career highlights, key contributions, and unique qualities make him a highly influential and respected figure in the hip-hop industry. His smooth flow, socially conscious lyrics, and collaborations with other notable artists have solidified his place in hip-hop history. Aspiring rappers can learn from his longevity and ability to adapt to the ever-changing music landscape, while fans can continue to appreciate his timeless music and thought-provoking messages.