On this day in Hip Hop history, Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith, better known as EPMD, released their groundbreaking debut album, Strictly Business, through Sleeping Bag Records in 1988. The album marked the arrival of one of rap’s most dynamic duos, combining funk-laced beats with laid-back yet hard-hitting lyricism that would become a blueprint for East Coast Hip Hop.
Strictly Business was built on simplicity and groove, offering a refreshing break from the more politically charged or fast-paced rap styles that dominated the era. Fueled by the success of its title track, the album peaked at No. 80 on the Billboard 200 and No. 22 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, solid achievements for a debut from two MCs out of Long Island.
The LP’s standout tracks include “You Gots to Chill,” “I’m Housin,” “Let the Funk Flow,” and, of course, the title track “Strictly Business.” The album was a sonic playground of expertly flipped samples, from Zapp’s “More Bounce to the Ounce” to Eric Clapton’s rendition of Bob Marley’s “I Shot the Sheriff.” EPMD’s sound was both rugged and funky, pioneering a lane that heavily influenced the boom-bap era that followed.
Critics initially gave Strictly Business mixed reviews, but over time, it’s earned classic status. The duo’s clever wordplay, comedic charm, and undeniable chemistry helped them carve out a unique space in Hip Hop. The album went on to be certified Gold by the RIAA within months of its release and has since been hailed as one of the greatest Hip Hop debuts of all time.
More than three decades later, Strictly Business remains a foundational piece of Hip Hop history—essential listening for fans of the genre’s golden era. Salute to EPMD for dropping the business knowledge and funk in equal measure.