The article explores the roots of 1990s Memphis rap, focusing on Three Six Mafia's early influence. It highlights the rise of Mr. Z Sound Express, a small shop that thrived amid the crack epidemic. Owner Saeed Zarshenas observed locals, flush with drug money, investing in car audio systems, which led him to sell mixtapes by local DJs. These tapes not only advertised his store but became instrumental in shaping the burgeoning Memphis hip-hop scene, marking a significant cultural moment in the genre's evolution.
"People were selling a lot of drugs, and they didn’t know what to do with their money... so they’d go buy a car for $300, $400..."
"The epicenter of Memphis hip-hop was a nondescript brick building at the corner of Larkin and Cleveland Streets... a word-of-mouth business that didn’t need much advertising push."
Collection
[
|
...
]