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Three 6 Mafia
Three 6 Mafia
Three 6 Mafia
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Three 6 Mafia is an American hip-hop group from Memphis, Tennessee, formed in 1991. Emerging as a horror-themed underground hip-hop group, they went on to enjoy mainstream success.[1] The group's 1995 debut album Mystic Stylez became an influential cult classic.[2] They have released music on independent labels such as Prophet Entertainment and their own Hypnotize Minds label, as well as Relativity, Loud, and Columbia Records.

Key Information

Two of their albums are RIAA-certified platinum: When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1 (2000) and Most Known Unknown (2005), with the latter featuring their hit single "Stay Fly". In 2006, the group won the Academy Award for Best Original Song at the 78th Academy Awards for their song "It's Hard out Here for a Pimp" from the film Hustle & Flow. The group's latest studio album, Last 2 Walk, was released in 2008. Three 6 Mafia's worldwide album sales stand at 5.5 million as of 2016.[3]

History

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1988–1990: Origins

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Three 6 Mafia's founding members became musicians at young ages. In 1988, DJ Paul, at age 11, was taking piano lessons, and his half-brother,[4] Lord Infamous, age 15, was a singer practicing bass and electric guitar. The two would compose songs together, with Paul playing piano and drums while Infamous played bass and guitar and sang.

At the same time, in North Memphis, Tennessee, Juicy J, at age 13, was learning how to DJ as well as rap. He had initially wanted to be a singer, but in the late 1980s and early 1990s he fell in love with the gangsta rap style, and he, like his future founding group members across town, wanted to make music like popular artists at the time such as N.W.A and Geto Boys.[5]

In 1989, DJ Paul and Lord Infamous formed the duo "Da Serial Killaz".[6] It was at this time they distributed their own mixtapes of popular songs at school, and Lord Infamous had started rapping with his signature triple time flow. Juicy J was also creating his own mixes by this time but was not putting his raps on tapes just yet.

1991–1992: The beginning

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By 1991, DJ Paul had already begun to make a name for himself in the local hip-hop scene through DJing at local clubs, such as Club 380 Beale, where he got his first opportunity to perform. His mixtapes, which were gradually evolving to include more and more original content of "Da Serial Killaz", also helped spread word of his talents.[7] At the time, the hip-hop scene in Memphis had not taken a fully fledged form yet, but early works by artists such as DJ Spanish Fly and DJ Squeeky were hinting at what was to come.[8] Meanwhile, Lord Infamous was still rapping and evolving his lyrical style. In North Memphis, Juicy J was slowly building a name for himself as well, now that he was making his own songs and distributing them with his mixtapes, as well as DJing at local clubs with his mentor.

That same year, DJ Paul and Juicy J first crossed paths after Juicy sought out Paul in 1991 for help making beats. The two quickly grew fond of each-other's musical styles and the two subsequently teamed up with Lord Infamous to form the group "The Backyard Posse". DJ Paul and Lord Infamous still continued work as "Da Serial Killaz" by themselves, and in 1992 released the first legitimate original recording to come out of the eventual Three 6 Mafia camp, "Portrait of a Serial Killa". Featuring dark beats by Paul and horrorcore-styled lyrics from Lord Infamous and DJ Paul, this tape is recognized in its raw form as a pioneering work of horrorcore hip-hop. Juicy J in the meantime released his debut hard copy mixtape, Volume 5, that same year, as well as his seminal track in its original form, "Slob on My Knob".

1993–1996: Debut, Mystic Stylez and Chapter 1: The End

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The first notable release from members of the group that dropped in 1993 was DJ Paul and Lord Infamous's Come With Me to Hell, which featured original forms of future Three 6 Mafia hits such as "Tear da Club Up" and "Porno Movie". Paul's "DJ Paul Volume 12" mixtape was also released at this time. That same year, while recording music for "The Backyard Posse", Lord Infamous rapped a line referring to his crew as the "Triple Six Mafia". The group later adopted the name, seeing that the name more closely matched the bleak and dark imagery of their music.[6]

Juicy J had yet to release a notable work of his own at this point, but in 1994 that would change with Vol. 9: It's On and Vol. 10: Chronicles of the Juice Manne. Similar to Paul and Infamous's works the previous year, these tapes featured what would turn out to be some of the framework of future hit songs.

Also in 1994, the group added its fourth official member, rapper Koopsta Knicca (Robert Cooper Phillips). Following the addition, the group released their first unified release with the mixtape Smoked Out, Loced Out, which featured fellow budding local rappers Gangsta Blac, Kingpin Skinny Pimp, Lil Fly, 211, K-9, Lil Glock and S.O.G. That same year, Koopsta Knicca recorded the original version of what would become his first solo album, Da Devil's Playground.

1994 also marked a significant milestone for the group, when Paul and Juicy, alongside local entrepreneur Nick Scarfo, formed Prophet, their first imprint. Through the label, the Prophet Posse was created, which was a looser collective that consisted of several local Memphis rappers who associated closely with Paul and Juicy J and ultimately signed onto the label, but were not members of Triple 6 Mafia. It was at this time when Juicy J's older brother, Project Pat, emerged with his debut, Solo Tape.

In 1995 the group filled out when it officially added rappers Crunchy Black and Gangsta Boo. It was later this year when the group shifted its name to Three 6 Mafia and released its debut album Mystic Stylez on Prophet. The LP earned them widespread recognition and attention locally and in the southern underground hip-hop scene, and as a result, Prophet landed a distribution deal with Select-O-Hits. The group's first song on the radio was "Da Summa".[9]

Three 6 Mafia's logo, seen on every album since Chapter 1: The End

In 1996, the group released Chapter 1: The End, its first non-lo-fi music record. At the helm of Prophet, DJ Paul and Juicy J would produce and release a handful of albums of some of the label's other acts, including Gangsta Blac's Can It Be? and Kingpin Skinny Pimp's King of Da Playaz Ball in 1996. At the end of 1996, however, DJ Paul and Juicy J had a falling-out with Nick Scarfo, and a lengthy legal lawsuit ensued between the two sides over Prophet. It was at this time when Paul and Juicy laid the framework for Hypnotize Minds, their own independent label, which would become the powerhouse for Three 6 Mafia’s music. In 1997, Three 6 Mafia and Hypnotize Minds signed a distribution deal with Relativity.

1997–2000: Chapter 2: World Domination and When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6 Sixty 1

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In 1997, after forming Hypnotize Minds, the group signed a deal with Sony and began working on what would become its first RIAA certified album, Chapter 2: World Domination. Polishing up their darker sound for a more palatable aesthetic while still retaining their authenticity, Chapter 2: World Domination went on to reach RIAA Gold status, selling over 800,000 copies in the United States. The LP peaked at no. 40 on the Billboard Top 200. The LP included the club anthem "Tear Da Club Up". At this point in the group's evolution, DJ Paul and Juicy J began expanding their brand and focused on developing Hypnotize Minds. Along with Three 6 Mafia, they brought along several artists from Prophet in their transition to Hypnotize Minds, creating the Hypnotize Camp Posse, the successor of the Prophet Posse. Over the next few years, the new label would put out and the Prophet Posse's Body Parts, The Kaze (trio of Project Pat, M.C. Mack and Scan Man)'s Kamakazie: Timez Up, Indo G's, Angel Dust, Gangsta Boo's Enquiring Minds, Project Pat's Ghetty Green, and Hypnotize Camp Posse's self titled album (Three 6 Mafia Presents: Hypnotize Camp Posse).

In 1999, Tear da Club up Thugz, a subgroup of Three 6 Mafia members in the founding trio of DJ Paul, Juicy J, and Lord Infamous, released CrazyNDaLazDayz, which is recognized as one of if not the first album made entirely in the "crunk" production style. The album included Juicy J's solo "Slob on My Knob" and went on to be certified Gold by the RIAA. CrazyNDaLazDayz peaked at no. 18 on the Billboard Top 200 music chart. Later that year, group member Koopsta Knicca's debut album, Da Devil's Playground: Underground Solo, was released independently, although like all the Hypnotize Minds albums, was still produced by DJ Paul and Juicy J.

In 2000, the group soared to new heights in the crunk music genre, carried by their most successful LP, When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1. The album went on to achieve RIAA Platinum status, a first for the group, and spawned the single "Sippin' on Some Syrup", which featured UGK.

2000 represented a troubling year for the group. The Prophet Posse, which to this point had still been working closely with Hypnotize Minds in an auxiliary-type relationship, disbanded, and its members who had not made the transition to Hypnotize Minds ceased making music with Three 6 Mafia and the rest of Hypnotize Minds. Moreover, group member Koopsta Knicca was forced out of Three 6 Mafia due to ongoing legal issues, which culminated with his 2000 robbery incarceration, which voided his contract with Sony and forbade him from recording with the group.[10] Koopsta Knicca was notably absent from the album cover of When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6 Sixty 1 and music videos that accompanied tracks on the album because of his incarceration, despite still being a member of the group at the time of the album's release.

2001–2004: Choices and Da Unbreakables

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Despite losing Koopsta Knicca from its ranks and cutting ties officially with Prophet, Three 6 Mafia and Hypnotize Minds were still successful. In 2001, the group released the soundtrack to the DJ Paul, Juicy J and Hypnotize Minds-produced film, Choices. The soundtrack was released as a studio album and (Choices: The Album), kept the Three 6 name and Hypnotize Minds brand growing. Moreover, Juicy and Paul successfully positioned Project Pat to become the new star of Hypnotize Minds, with his 2001 LP Mista Don't Play: Everythangs Workin hitting #4 on the Billboard 200 and being certified Gold by the RIAA, being thus far the only Three 6 Mafia affiliate or member to release an RIAA-certified solo album. 2001 also saw Gangsta Boo leave Three 6 Mafia following the release of Choices: The Album, citing a variety of reasons including group dynamics, religion, alleged financial mismanagement and her desire to pursue a solo career.[11][12]

In 2002, Juicy J and DJ Paul re-released their remastered and dramatically updated "Vol. 10" and "Vol. 16" albums respectively as Chronicles of the Juice Man, and Underground Volume 16: For da Summa. These LPs represented their solo studio LP debuts and the last piece of some of their older sound, effectively giving way to full on crunk.

In 2003, the latest incarnation of Three 6 Mafia, DJ Paul, Juicy J, Lord Infamous, and Crunchy Black, released their album Da Unbreakables. Spawning hit singles such as "Ridin' Spinners" and "Testin' My Gangsta", the album was a success, with the RIAA certifying it Gold by the RIAA. In 2004, Three 6 Mafia began to mobilize for what would become their domination over hip-hop. They were working on a sequel to their 2001 film, as well as another studio LP. But DJ Paul, Juicy J, and Hypnotize Minds's Frayser Boy, were about to ink a deal with the directors of Hustle & Flow to write the original track ‘It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp‘ for the film that would ultimately result in the group winning an Oscar.

2005–2006: Academy Award, Choices II: The Setup and Most Known Unknown

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During 2005, many members had left including Lord Infamous, and with that even more affiliates, but other acts such as Project Pat and Frayser Boy cropped up as successes to keep the camp moving forward. This moving forward reached its zenith in 2005–06 for Three 6 Mafia, wherein they became superstars of hip-hop. Firstly, they dropped the sequel to their Choices movie, Choices II: The Setup, and a studio album to go along with it that sold 400,000 copies. Secondly, they released their most commercially successful LP, Most Known Unknown, which charted at #3 on the Top 200 and went on to sell 1,600,000 copies in the United States, becoming their second album to go Platinum in America and their best selling overall. The LP featured 3 successful singles: "Side 2 Side", "Poppin' My Collar", and "Stay Fly". "Stay Fly" is Three 6 Mafia's most commercially successful song, being certified Double Platinum in America. The song featured 8Ball & MJG and Young Buck. The song also peaked at no. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 music charts. "Poppin' My Collar", the remix which featured Project Pat, was certified Platinum by the RIAA and peaked at no. 21 on the Billboard Top 100. Also in 2005, they released an additional film, the comedy, Clean Up Men.

Three 6 Mafia's rise came to a head in 2006 when they became the first hip-hop group to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song with "It's Hard out Here for a Pimp" (which they co-wrote with Frayser Boy) as one of the theme songs for Hustle & Flow. They were also the first hip-hop group to perform at the ceremony, which they did with Hustle & Flow actress Taraji P. Henson reprising her chorus.[13] Right before presenter Queen Latifah announced that they had won, she chuckled and sang the refrain from the song. The energy from DJ Paul, Juicy J, Crunchy Black, and Frayser Boy's on-stage presence and acceptance speech was infectious, causing that year's Oscar host Jon Stewart to quip "How come they're the most excited people here tonight? Why is that? They're thrilled! They're thrilled!.... That's how you accept an Oscar!"[14][citation needed]

2007–2011: Last 2 Walk

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On June 7, 2007, Sony announced the departure of Crunchy Black. He stated his primary reason for departing was to make a solo LP that DJ Paul and Juicy J had allegedly put off for years, as much of the material that he'd wanted on his solo LP was used for Most Known Unknown. Crunchy also later cited frustration over alleged financial mismanagement.[15][16] Thereafter Three 6 Mafia consisted officially of DJ Paul and Juicy J.

The pair was featured along with Timbaland on fellow Memphis artist, Justin Timberlake's single, "Chop Me Up" from his 2007 album FutureSex/LoveSounds.[17]

Juicy J (front) and DJ Paul (back) performing in late 2007

In 2007, DJ Paul and Juicy J landed their own reality television show, Adventures in Hollyhood, on MTV. The show focused on the pair balancing fun and studio work after their Oscar win. Project Pat, along with friends Big Triece and Computer, co-starred. The show premiered on April 5, 2007, on MTV and aired for one season.[18]

Three 6 Mafia released their 9th studio album Last 2 Walk on June 24, 2008, after multiple delays. The album featured collaborations with Akon, Good Charlotte, Lyfe Jennings, UGK, and 8Ball & MJG among others.

After leaving Three 6 Mafia in 2005, Lord Infamous was featured on DJ Paul's second solo album Scale-A-Ton, which was released on May 5, 2009. Lord Infamous was featured on eight tracks. Juicy J's second solo album Hustle Till I Die was released on June 16, 2009.[19] The LP featured Project Pat and other rappers such as V-Slash, Gucci Mane, Webbie and Gorilla Zoe.

In 2011, DJ Paul and Juicy J starred in VH1's cooking show Famous Food together with 7 other celebrities and eventually won 1st place.[20] In an interview published in July 2011,[21] DJ Paul cleared up some controversy from the show, involving Ashley Alexandra Dupré, best known from the Eliot Spitzer prostitution scandal.[21]

In December 2011, Juicy J confirmed that he was the newest member of Wiz Khalifa's Taylor Gang – as an A&R and co-owner.[22]

2012–2018: Hiatus, Da Mafia 6ix, and independent endeavors

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By the end of 2012, Juicy J had moved completely away from Three 6 Mafia work to focus on his solo career. During this time he released a number of solo mixtapes such as Rubba Band Business and Blue Dream & Lean. He also had begun frequently collaborating with Wiz Khalifa, appearing on a number of his mixtapes.

After a number of mixtapes, DJ Paul released his third solo studio album A Person of Interest on October 22, 2012. He announced that the album was a mix of gangsta rap and crunk music, with it also incorporating influences from dubstep and electronic dance music. The album featured past collaborator Gucci Mane, and also came with a bonus DVD including a self-titled short movie, music videos and behind the scenes footage.

On November 26, 2013, DJ Paul released Volume 16: The Original Masters, a remaster of his 1994 mixtape 4 Da Summer of '94, on iTunes. After releasing a series of singles, including the chart topping "Bandz a Make Her Dance" which featured 2 Chainz and Lil Wayne, Juicy J released his third solo studio album Stay Trippy under Taylor Gang Records, Kemosabe Records and Columbia Records on August 27, 2013. Juicy J has since stated that he would still "love to" participate in a Three 6 Mafia album in the future.[23]

In 2013, it was announced that five of the six original members of Three 6 Mafia – DJ Paul, Crunchy Black, Koopsta Knicca, Lord Infamous and Gangsta Boo – were reuniting to form a new group, to be known as Da Mafia 6ix, with plans to release an album which was scheduled for a March 2014 release. At the time of the formation of Da Mafia 6ix, DJ Paul clarified that the collective was "not a Three 6 Mafia reunion" and described it as "a totally new group".[24] The new group opted for a style reflecting their roots, focusing largely on the horrorcore foundations of their early works. Recording began in Las Vegas in late 2013.[25] On November 12, 2013, Da Mafia 6ix released their first mixtape 6iX Commandments. The tape was almost entirely produced by DJ Paul and featured 8Ball & MJG, Krayzie Bone, Bizzy Bone, SpaceGhostPurrp and old HCP affiliates Kingpin Skinny Pimp and La Chat, among others.[26] Juicy J and Project Pat also appeared as surprise guests on the posse song "Body Parts", being credited just as "& more" in the track listing. The mixtape was supported by the lead single "Go Hard".[27] The mixtape also received a retail release and debuted at number 34 on the US Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.[28] The group is managed by DJ Paul's management team, TBA Worldwide.

On December 20, 2013, Lord Infamous died of a heart attack at home in Memphis.[29]

Gangsta Boo would leave Da Mafia 6ix in May 2014. DJ Paul explained it saying, "It was what we thought was going to be best for everybody. It just happened. Nobody forced nobody. It was a gut feeling."[30] The reunited group's debut album, Watch What U Wish..., featured the three remaining members of the group as well as Lord Infamous, who appeared on a handful of tracks through several verses he had recorded prior to his death. The album was released on March 17, 2015.[31] A month later, Crunchy Black was arrested for drug possession in Las Vegas. He had an outstanding arrest warrant stemming from a domestic violence charge and was sentenced to a total of 7 months in prison.[32]

On October 9, 2015, Koopsta Knicca died after several days in urgent care following a stroke and intracranial aneurysm.[33]

2019–present: Reunion performances and tour

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In August 2019, group leaders DJ Paul and Juicy J announced they would soon be reviving Three 6 Mafia and reuniting for performances together for the first time in several years.[34] The slate of performances kicked off with a show on October 12, 2019 at the Landers Center in the Memphis metropolitan area, where the group hails from. The performance featured many of the group's biggest hits and included the other two living members of the original group, Crunchy Black and Gangsta Boo, as well as three fellow Hypnotize Camp Posse members who were so synonymous with the group that they were often incorrectly or unofficially labeled as members, Project Pat and La Chat.[35] The series of performances, mostly taking place in the Southeastern United States, continued into 2020, and were successful to the point where DJ Paul and Juicy announced on February 12 an organized official reunion tour at locations across the United States would begin the following month.[36] In April, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the postponement of the remainder of the tour.

The reunion performances and subsequent tour have further fueled speculation that Three 6 Mafia may come out with new music or ultimately a tenth studio album, but no timetable has been revealed.[37][38]

On December 2, 2021, Three 6 Mafia competed in a Verzuz battle with longtime rival group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony. DJ Paul, Juicy J, Crunchy Black, and Gangsta Boo all took part as the living representatives of the Mafia, as did all five members of Bone Thugs. Juicy J and Bizzy Bone had a verbal altercation during the event which resulted in Bizzy throwing a bottle at Juicy J and being briefly escorted off stage, before returning and apologizing to continue the show without incident. The event was highly acclaimed as one of the series' best events to date, seen as more of a celebration of old-school hip-hop than a fight for supremacy.

Gangsta Boo was found dead at her mother's home on January 1, 2023, at the age of 43. DJ Paul confirmed her death via Instagram. Her cause of death was later revealed to be an accidental overdose with fentanyl, cocaine and alcohol found in her system.[39][40][41]

Members

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Members

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  • DJ Paul (1991–2012, 2019–present)
  • Juicy J (1991–2012, 2019–present)
  • Crunchy Black (1991–2006, 2019–present)

Past members

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  • Lord Infamous (1991–2005; died 2013)
  • Koopsta Knicca (1994–2000; died 2015)
  • Gangsta Boo (1994–2001, 2019–2023; died 2023)

Timeline

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Posse

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See also: Hypnotize Camp Posse, Prophet Posse, and Three 6 Mafia discography § Posse Songs

Three 6 Mafia never expanded beyond the six original members of the group, but it had an expanded version, known initially as Prophet Posse and later as Hypnotize Camp Posse (in reference to the Three 6 Mafia-created and sponsored labels, Prophet then Hypnotize Minds).[42]

Prophet Posse and Hypnotize Camp Posse are known for their posse songs, which accompanied nearly every album release by Prophet and Hypnotize Minds from 1995 through 2005.

  • Grandaddy Souf (2004–2006)
  • Project Pat (1994–2012)
  • La Chat (1994–1995, 1999–2003)
  • M.C. Mack (1994–2000)
  • Scan Man (1994–2000)
  • The Kaze (1994–2000)
  • K-Rock (1994–1998; died 2018)
  • Lil Pat (1994–2000)
  • T-Rock (1997–2001)
  • M-Child (1996–1999)
  • Chrome (2005–2008)
  • Nigga Creep (1997–2000; died 2000)
  • Kingpin Skinny Pimp (1994–1996)
  • Indo G (1996–1998)
  • Gangsta Blac (1994–1996)
  • Lil Fly (1994–1995)
  • Mr. Del (1999–2000)
  • Droopy Drew Dog (1997–1998)
  • Lil Wyte (2002–2012)

Discography

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Main article: Three 6 Mafia discography

Studio albums

Subgroup albums

Posse albums

Collaborative albums

Filmography

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Feature films

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Film appearances

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Television series

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Television appearances

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DVDs

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  • Choices: The Movie (2001)
  • Choices II: The Setup (2005)
  • Clean Up Men (2005)
  • Ultimate Video Collection (2006)

Musical inclusions in video games

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Awards and nominations

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Year Awards Category Work Result
2006 Academy Awards Best Original Song "It's Hard out Here for a Pimp" Won
BET Awards Best Group Three 6 Mafia Nominated
MTV Video Music Awards Best Hip-Hop Video "Stay Fly" Nominated
MTV2 Award Nominated
2007 BET Awards Best Group Three 6 Mafia Nominated
2008 American Music Awards Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Band, Duo or Group Three 6 Mafia Won
2009 BET Awards Best Group Three 6 Mafia Nominated
2010 International Dance Music Awards Best Hip Hop Dance Track "Feel It" Nominated
2012 Memphis Music Hall of Fame Inductee Three 6 Mafia Won

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Three 6 Mafia

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Three 6 Mafia is an American hip hop group from , formed in 1991 by (Paul Beauregard), (Jordan Houston), and (Ricky Dunigan), initially under the name Backyard Posse before adopting the moniker referencing the biblical "666." The group pioneered and subgenres within Southern rap, blending dark, aggressive lyrics with heavy bass production that influenced the Dirty South sound. Originally releasing independent albums through their Prophet Entertainment label, Three 6 Mafia gained regional acclaim with their 1995 debut and follow-up The End (1996), which together sold nearly 200,000 copies despite a modest $4,500 budget and featured raw tracks like "Live by Yo Rep." Follow-up efforts such as the gold-certified Chapter 2: World Domination (1997) expanded their roster, incorporating affiliates like Koopsta Knicca (Robert Cooper), Crunchy Black (Darnell Carlton), (Lola Mitchell), and briefly (Chastity Daniels), while signing a major deal with Relativity Records/ in 1997. Their breakthrough came with the platinum-selling When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1 (2000), driven by hits like "," followed by the platinum (2005), which included the chart-topping "Stay Fly." In a landmark achievement, Three 6 Mafia became the first hip-hop group to win an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2006 for "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp" from the film , also marking the first time a rap act performed at the Oscars and the first African American rap group to claim the honor. The group founded Records, launching solo careers for members like and , though lineup changes occurred— and Koopsta Knicca departed around 2000, Crunchy Black in 2005—leaving and as the core duo. They received further accolades, including the 2008 American Music Award for Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Group, and reunited as Da Mafia 6ix in 2013 for the 6ix Commandments. The group has reunited periodically since 2019 for tours and events, including a 2021 battle, though former member died in 2023; and continue to perform with affiliates as of 2025.

History

Formation and underground beginnings (1988–1996)

DJ Paul and Juicy J first met during their high school years in , in the late 1980s, bonding over their shared interest in music production and rapping. As teenagers immersed in the city's burgeoning underground rap scene, they began collaborating on beats and rhymes, drawing from the gritty realities of Southern life. This meeting laid the foundation for what would become a pioneering force in , distinct from contemporaries like through its emphasis on dark, atmospheric sounds. In 1991, the duo formally assembled the group as the Backyard Posse, recruiting —DJ Paul's half-brother—as a key early member to contribute sharp, narrative-driven verses. The collective soon rebranded to Triple 6 Mafia (later stylized as Three 6 Mafia), a name evoking their fascination with and apocalyptic themes that defined their aesthetic. By 1994, the lineup expanded with the addition of , whose fierce delivery added a female perspective, and Koopsta Knicca, known for his rapid-fire flows, solidifying the core six-member structure. These early years were marked by independent hustle in a Memphis scene rife with limited distribution channels, forcing the group to rely on cassette tapes and word-of-mouth to cultivate a devoted Southern fanbase through club performances and street-level promotion. The group's underground momentum built with the 1994 release of their debut tape Smoked Out, Loced Out, a raw collection of lo-fi tracks produced in home studios that showcased booming 808 bass, eerie synths, and triplet flows over lyrics exploring drugs, violence, and motifs. This was followed by their first full-length , , issued in 1995 on the independent Prophet Entertainment label, which featured standout cuts like "Tear da Club Up" and delved deeply into imagery of serial killers, blood sacrifices, and demonic pacts. To address ongoing distribution challenges, and established the imprint in 1997, enabling greater autonomy in releasing material tailored to the South's crunk-infused underground circuit. By 1996, they dropped Chapter 1: The End, a remix-heavy follow-up that remixed tracks from while introducing new material, further entrenching their reputation for innovative, bass-driven production amid the era's regional rap rivalries.

Mainstream breakthrough and commercial success (1997–2005)

In 1997, Three 6 Mafia signed a distribution deal with Relativity Records through their independent label , marking a pivotal shift from underground releases to broader commercial distribution. This partnership facilitated the release of their third studio album, Chapter 2: World Domination, on November 4, 1997, which became their first widely distributed project and achieved RIAA Gold certification for sales exceeding 500,000 units in the United States. The album featured standout tracks such as "Late Nite Tip," which originated on their previous underground album Chapter 1: The End (1996) as track 4 in a cruder version and was re-included here—potentially as a reprise—to leverage its popularity after signing the distribution deal for broader reach and sales, a common practice among rap groups transitioning to major-label exposure, with the Chapter 2 version becoming more widely known due to official promotion and higher streaming numbers. It is a , bass-heavy single that highlighted the group's emerging fusion of lyrics with rhythmic, party-oriented beats, foreshadowing their influence on the subgenre of Southern hip-hop. Additionally, Crunchy Black, a longtime affiliate, was fully integrated as a core member during this period, solidifying the group's lineup amid their national push. Building on this momentum, Three 6 Mafia released When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1 on June 13, 2000, via , which propelled them to mainstream prominence by earning RIAA Platinum certification for over 1,000,000 units sold. The album showcased a polished evolution of their sound, blending gritty with accessible hooks, and included the hit featuring and , a track that popularized codeine-laced lean culture in hip-hop while peaking at No. 46 on the Billboard Hot 100. Collaborations like these expanded their reach, drawing in Southern rap audiences and establishing as a hub for regional talent. In 2001, the group capitalized on their growing profile with Choices: The Album, a soundtrack tied to their film of the same name, released on August 28 via . The project featured the title track "Choices," a raw narrative on street life that resonated with fans, alongside contributions from affiliates like . By 2003, arrived on June 24 through , further cementing their commercial viability with singles like "Ridin' Spinners" featuring , which charted on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs at No. 61 and exemplified their knack for club anthems centered on luxury and bravado. During this era, Hypnotize Minds expanded its roster significantly, signing artists such as , , and later , fostering a collective known as the Hypnotize Camp Posse that amplified the label's output through compilation albums like Three 6 Mafia Presents: Hypnotize Camp Posse in 2000. However, the group's rise was not without conflict, as they engaged in high-profile feuds with other Southern rappers, most notably , stemming from territorial disputes in that escalated through diss tracks and nearly turned violent in the late 1990s and early . Overall album sales during this period, including approximately 1.5 million units for Sixty 6, Sixty 1 when accounting for international figures, underscored their breakthrough impact on the Southern hip-hop landscape.

Oscar achievement and final group album (2006–2008)

In early 2005, Three 6 Mafia contributed the track "It's Hard out Here for a Pimp" to the soundtrack of the film , directed by and starring . The song, written by group members , , and Cedric "Biggity" Coleman, served as the film's theme, capturing the struggles of a Memphis pimp aspiring to rap stardom. On March 5, 2006, at the , "It's Hard out Here for a Pimp" won the Oscar for Best Original Song, making Three 6 Mafia the first hip-hop group to achieve this honor and only the second rap song ever to win in the category after "" by in 2003. The group performed the song live during the ceremony, accompanied by actor and a dancer portraying a pimp, in a moment that blended Southern rap aesthetics with Hollywood glamour. The Oscar victory generated significant media attention, propelling Three 6 Mafia into broader mainstream visibility and highlighting Memphis rap's cultural reach beyond underground circuits. Outlets like and covered the win as a landmark for hip-hop's acceptance in prestigious institutions, with host Jon Stewart's onstage banter adding to the buzz by humorously acknowledging the song's explicit themes. This exposure boosted sales of their existing catalog and positioned the group as trailblazers, influencing subsequent hip-hop integrations into film soundtracks and award shows. Amid this heightened profile, Three 6 Mafia released two projects in 2005 that capitalized on their rising . Choices II: The Setup, a soundtrack album tied to the direct-to-video film of the same name starring the group, dropped on March 29 via Hypnotize and , featuring tracks like "Sup WIth Dat" and collaborations with affiliates such as . Later that year, on September 27, they issued Most Known Unknown, their eighth studio album, which debuted at No. 4 on the and was certified platinum by the RIAA for over one million units sold. The lead single "Stay Fly," featuring , 8Ball & MJG, became their biggest hit, peaking at No. 13 on the and certified double platinum, with its bouncy, crunk-infused production emblematic of their polished Southern sound. By 2008, as internal frictions emerged over finances and creative direction—exacerbated by member Crunchy Black's departure in 2006 due to disputes with and over earnings—Three 6 Mafia released on June 24, marking their final album under the original group name. Distributed by and Columbia, the project debuted at No. 5 on the , selling over 51,000 copies in its first week, and included guest spots from artists like and . Standout track "Lolli Lolli (Pop That Body)," featuring , Young D, and , peaked at No. 72 on the and gained traction as a club anthem with its playful, candy-themed lyrics promoting twerking. These tensions, including ongoing label negotiations with Columbia, signaled the end of the group's cohesive era, shifting focus toward individual pursuits.

Hiatus, solo ventures, and side projects (2009–2018)

Following the release of their final group album in 2008, Three 6 Mafia entered an extended hiatus marked by internal tensions and label disputes with , their independent imprint, which became largely inactive by 2012. This period culminated in the group's effective disbandment that year, as core members pursued divergent paths amid unresolved business conflicts and creative differences. Juicy J, one half of the group's production duo, signed a partnership and A&R deal with 's Taylor Gang Records in 2011, shifting focus to his solo career and collaborations within the emerging trap scene. This move facilitated his third solo album, , released in August 2013 via Kemosabe and , which debuted at number four on the and featured hits like "Bandz a Make Her Dance" with guest appearances from artists such as and . DJ Paul, the other foundational producer, released his second solo album Scale-A-Ton in May 2009 through and Scale-A-Ton Entertainment, showcasing his signature beats across 21 tracks with features from Three 6 affiliates like and . Meanwhile, Crunchy Black issued independent projects, including the 2010 mixtape Bawlin Vol. 1 and sporadic singles distributed via platforms like , maintaining a low-profile output centered on raw themes. Koopsta Knicca contributed to underground releases during this time, including tracks on compilations and his ongoing solo efforts like the 2014 EP The Mind of Robert Cooper, which he was developing further before his passing. In response to the group's dormancy, formed Da Mafia 6ix in as a revival project featuring original Three 6 Mafia members Crunchy Black, Koopsta Knicca, , and , aiming to recapture their roots without . The collective debuted with the 6ix Commandments in November , hosted by DJ Drama's Gangsta Grillz series, followed by the Watch What U Wish... in March 2015, which included collaborations with and Fiend. Da Mafia 6ix also participated in the supergroup Killjoy Club with , releasing the collaborative Reindeer Games in 2014 on , blending their styles on tracks like "Santa's Slay." The hiatus was overshadowed by profound losses, as died of a heart attack on December 20, 2013, at age 40 in his mother's Memphis home, shortly after rejoining Da Mafia 6ix. Koopsta Knicca suffered a massive on October 4, 2015, and passed away five days later at age 40, having recently completed vocal contributions to Da Mafia 6ix's Watch What U Wish... and planning a follow-up solo project. These tragedies compounded existing strains, including public feuds between and , who traded criticisms on in 2018 over creative credits and past collaborations, with accusing of downplaying their shared history. Despite the discord, both teased potential Three 6 Mafia reunions in interviews during the mid-2010s, though none materialized until later. Throughout the period, and pivoted toward production roles, with crafting beats for artists like and Three 6 affiliates on albums such as his 2012 solo effort A Person of Interest, while co-produced tracks for Taylor Gang signees and mainstream acts, including Wiz Khalifa's O.N.I.F.C. (2012) and his own hits, solidifying their influence on trap and Southern hip-hop production.

Reunion, tragedies, and ongoing tours (2019–present)

In August 2019, and announced the reunion of Three 6 Mafia alongside Crunchy Black, marking the group's return after over a decade of hiatus with a series of live performances. The initial shows included a high-profile set at One Musicfest in on September 7, 2019, where the group delivered their signature anthems to an enthusiastic crowd, revitalizing interest in their legacy. Former member joined for select appearances during this period, adding her distinctive flow to the lineup and contributing to the electric atmosphere of these early reunion events. The momentum continued into 2020 with announced U.S. tour dates starting in March, but the disrupted plans, leading to postponements and cancellations across the live music industry. In response, the group adapted by hosting one of the first socially distanced indoor arena concerts in the U.S. on , 2020, at the in Memphis, allowing fans to experience their high-energy sets under strict health protocols. By 2021, Three 6 Mafia participated in the battle series against on December 2 at the in , a matchup that showcased classic tracks from both groups and drew massive viewership, though it was briefly halted by an onstage altercation. made additional guest appearances, including at Miami in July 2022, where the performance highlighted the enduring appeal of their chaotic, bass-heavy sound to newer generations of fans. Tragedy struck the group on January 1, 2023, when died at age 43 from an accidental overdose involving , , and alcohol, as confirmed by an report released in June. Her passing prompted widespread tributes from , , and the hip-hop community, emphasizing her pioneering role as a female voice in Southern rap and the profound emotional impact on Three 6 Mafia's ongoing activities. The loss underscored the challenges of reunion efforts but did not halt their momentum, with the core members channeling fan support into continued live performances that maintained the group's raw, hypnotic energy. In July 2025, they performed at the Gods of Chaos festival alongside acts like . In June 2025, Three 6 Mafia announced the Thuggish Ruggish Mafia Tour, a co-headlining run with featuring special guests and , originally set for amphitheaters from August to October across . The tour promised collaborative sets blending the groups' styles, focusing on fan-favorite and receiving positive early for its potential to recreate the Verzuz's competitive spirit on a larger scale. However, in August 2025, the dates were postponed—not canceled—with the tour rescheduled to begin in April 2026, extending the run into further extensions amid logistical adjustments. As of November 2025, no new studio album has been released by the group, though their reunion shows continue to emphasize live vitality and hints at future collaborations without confirmed recordings.

Members

Current members

The current lineup of Three 6 Mafia consists of its three core members, who have been actively performing together since their 2019 reunion. , born Paul Duane Beauregard, is a founding member, primary producer, DJ, and occasional rapper who shaped the group's signature sound through innovative, dark beats on seminal albums like (1995) and When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1 (). His production work, often featuring layered samples and ominous synths, remains central to the group's identity, and he continues to contribute to their live sets and occasional new material. Juicy J, born Jordan Michael Houston, is the other co-founder, serving as a lead rapper, producer, and hook writer whose energetic delivery and party-oriented lyrics helped propel the group to mainstream success on tracks like "Stay Fly" from (2005). Following the group's hiatus, his solo career exploded with hits like "" (2012), but he rejoined for the reunion, bringing his experience from collaborations with artists like to enhance their performances. Crunchy Black, born Darnell Carlton, joined as a rapper in 1995 and is known for his gritty, high-energy verses and distinctive ad-libs on albums such as When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1, along with his incorporation of the Memphis "gangsta walk" into live shows. After departing post-2008, he returned for the 2019 reunion, solidifying the trio's dynamic with his raw, street-level contributions. As of 2025, , , and Crunchy Black remain the active members, with no additions to the lineup since the reunion, and they continue touring, including their performance at the on August 16, 2025, and a joint North American amphitheater run with that was announced for summer 2025, later postponed to April 2026.

Former members

Ricky "Lord Infamous" Dunigan was a founding member of Three 6 Mafia, joining in 1991 alongside and , and contributed to the group's early underground sound with his horrorcore-influenced verses and dark, narrative-driven lyrics that often explored themes of violence and the supernatural. He remained with the group until 2005, when he departed amid internal conflicts, but briefly rejoined in 2013 for the Da Mafia 6ix project, releasing the mixtape 6ix Commandments before his death. died on December 20, 2013, at age 40 from a heart attack while sleeping at his mother's home in Memphis. Robert "Koopsta Knicca" Cooper Phillips joined Three 6 Mafia in 1994, bringing a distinctive fast-paced flow and horror-themed lyrics that complemented the group's and style, appearing on key albums like (1995) and When the Smoke Clears (2000). He left the group in 2000 due to monetary disputes and to pursue a solo career, though he made occasional guest appearances on later projects. Koopsta Knicca passed away on October 9, 2015, at age 40 in Memphis from complications of a and . Lola "Gangsta Boo" Mitchell, who joined Three 6 Mafia in 1994 at age 14, became the group's pioneering female rapper, delivering confident, aggressive flows that helped shape Southern hip-hop and distinguish the ensemble's dynamic on albums such as Chapter 1: The End (1996) and Tear Da Club Up Thugs (1999). She departed in 2001 following the release of Choices: The Album, citing financial disputes and creative differences as she shifted focus to her solo work, but rejoined briefly in 2019 for a reunion tour with surviving original members. died on January 1, 2023, at age 43 in Memphis from an accidental overdose involving , , and alcohol. Other brief tenures included affiliates like , who collaborated extensively but was not a core member, often contributing as a guest rather than a full participant in the group's lineup. Departures among former members generally stemmed from creative differences, financial disagreements, or pursuits of individual projects, impacting the group's evolution while their contributions remained foundational to Three 6 Mafia's legacy.

Group timeline

YearEventActive Members
1991Formation of Three 6 Mafia by DJ Paul, Juicy J, and Lord Infamous.DJ Paul, Juicy J, Lord Infamous
1994Gangsta Boo joins the group. Koopsta Knicca becomes a full member.DJ Paul, Juicy J, Lord Infamous, Koopsta Knicca, Gangsta Boo
1995Crunchy Black joins the group; release of debut album Mystic Stylez.DJ Paul, Juicy J, Lord Infamous, Koopsta Knicca, Gangsta Boo, Crunchy Black
2001Gangsta Boo departs the group to pursue a solo career.DJ Paul, Juicy J, Lord Infamous, Koopsta Knicca, Crunchy Black
2005Lord Infamous leaves the group following the release of Most Known Unknown.DJ Paul, Juicy J, Koopsta Knicca, Crunchy Black
2006Crunchy Black leaves the group; Three 6 Mafia wins the Academy Award for Best Original Song for "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp" from Hustle & Flow.DJ Paul, Juicy J
2012The group disbands.None (disbanded)
2013Lord Infamous dies of a heart attack at age 40.N/A
2015Koopsta Knicca dies from a brain aneurysm and stroke at age 40.N/A
2019Reunion announced with DJ Paul, Juicy J, and Crunchy Black.DJ Paul, Juicy J, Crunchy Black
2021Participation in Verzuz battle against Bone Thugs-n-Harmony.DJ Paul, Juicy J, Crunchy Black (with guests)
2023Gangsta Boo dies at age 43 from an accidental overdose.N/A
2025Announcement of joint tour with Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Thuggish Ruggish Mafia Tour, later postponed to 2026; performance at Gathering of the Juggalos.DJ Paul, Juicy J, Crunchy Black

Musical style and influences

Core influences and Memphis rap roots

Three 6 Mafia's sound emerged from the gritty underbelly of 1990s , a scene rooted in the city's poverty, violence, and vibrant street culture where artists traded homemade cassette tapes at local spots like Mr. Z Sound Express stereo shop. Local pioneers such as , who debuted in the late 1980s with raw depictions of Southern life, heavily influenced the group's early hustle-oriented lyrics and laid-back flows, with even serving as a DJ for their shows before forming Three 6 Mafia. This underground tape-trading network, driven by DJs like Soni D and Spanish Fly, allowed acts to build a without major label support, fostering a collaborative ethos seen in Three 6's affiliates such as the Tear Da Club Up Thugs, a supergroup featuring core members alongside and others for high-energy posse cuts. The group's production drew from Memphis's rich musical heritage, incorporating samples from ' soul and funk catalog—evoking the city's historic R&B legacy—alongside gospel elements for haunting, layered textures that amplified their dark narratives. DJ Paul's early background in , honed through childhood lessons, contributed to this melodic foundation, enabling intricate keyboard solos and beats that blended eerie atmospheres with rhythmic drive, as he later expressed appreciation for piano's role in their albums. Additionally, techniques like reverb-heavy vocals and low-bitrate loops—filtered into via regional exchanges—gave Three 6's tracks a disorienting, hypnotic quality that mirrored the city's drug-fueled street life. Broader inspirations pulled from horror films and occult rap aesthetics shaped Three 6 Mafia's pioneering role in the subgenre, characterized by violent, imagery and ritualistic vibes. Films like directly influenced their sampling choices, as heard in tracks such as "Threesixafix," where the movie's iconic "" theme is reworked into a menacing Memphis banger with murderous bars. themes echoed earlier Southern acts like the , whose macabre gangsta rap on albums like We Can't Be Stopped (1990) inspired Three 6's devilish personas and bleak lyrics about stabbings and hauntings, though the group emphasized artistic flair over literal . This fusion of local grit with cinematic horror positioned Three 6 as innovators, exporting Memphis's shadowy sound to wider Southern hip-hop.

Evolution of style and themes

Three 6 Mafia's early work from 1995 to 1997 was firmly rooted in , characterized by dark and aggressive lyrics centered on violence and supernatural elements, paired with production featuring eerie synths and rapid patterns. Their debut Mystic Stylez exemplified this style through occult-themed narratives and haunting melodies that evoked a sense of Memphis underworld menace. Building on their foundations, this phase established a gritty, experimental sound that prioritized atmospheric dread over mainstream accessibility. The group's shift toward began in the late 1990s, introducing high-energy party anthems with bass-heavy beats and infectious call-and-response hooks that contrasted their prior intensity, continuing into the early 2000s through 2005. Tracks like "Tear da Club Up '97" captured this evolution, transforming ambient horror into chaotic, crowd-inciting aggression through layered piano riffs and rising synths. This period marked a pivot to more celebratory, rowdy themes while retaining raw Southern production techniques. In the later phases from 2006 onward, Three 6 Mafia incorporated trap influences, especially evident in members' solo ventures, where themes transitioned from street horror to narratives of and hustling. Their Oscar-winning track "It's Hard out Here for a Pimp" highlighted this change, blending gritty realism with soulful hooks to depict the challenges of urban survival. Production evolved to include triple-time flows, a signature rhythmic style originating from member , adding a , hypnotic cadence to their beats. This style persisted in post-2008 reunions, such as the 2013 Da Mafia 6ix mixtape 6ix Commandments and ongoing tours as of 2025, maintaining core elements like triplet flows and ad-libs amid modern trap and influences in collaborations. Throughout their career, Three 6 Mafia maintained unique elements like consistent ad-libs—such as "yay yay" chants—and hypnotic call-and-response structures, which reinforced their energetic delivery and contributed to the development of subgenres like phonk through eerie, sample-heavy aesthetics.

Discography

Studio albums

Three 6 Mafia's debut studio album, Mystic Stylez, was released on May 30, 1995, through Prophet Entertainment. This independent release introduced their signature horrorcore sound, characterized by dark, ominous beats and lyrics centered on supernatural and violent themes, helping to define the early Memphis rap scene. The album achieved underground success, with Mystic Stylez and follow-up The End together selling nearly 200,000 copies. Their second studio album, The End (also known as Chapter 1: The End), was released on December 3, 1996, via Prophet Entertainment. It continued the raw style of their debut, featuring tracks like "Break Da Law '95" and building on their regional following in the scene. Their third studio album, Chapter 2: World Domination, arrived on November 4, 1997, via Relativity Records. It expanded their palette to include more club-oriented anthems alongside elements, achieving gold certification from the RIAA for sales exceeding 500,000 units in the United States. When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1, the group's fourth studio album, was issued on June 13, 2000, by Loud Records. Featuring the hit single "Sippin' on Some Syrup," it blended crunk party tracks with their gritty style, earning platinum certification from the RIAA for over 1,000,000 units sold. The fifth studio album, Da Unbreakables, came out on June 24, 2003, under Hypnotize Minds and Columbia Records. Including the track "Ridin' Spinners," it maintained their high-energy production and reached gold status from the RIAA, with sales surpassing 500,000 copies. Most Known Unknown, released on September 27, 2005, by Hypnotize Minds, Sony Urban Music, and Columbia Records, became one of their biggest commercial successes. Propelled by the platinum-certified single "Stay Fly," the album achieved platinum status from the RIAA, selling over 1,000,000 units. The group's final studio album to date, Last 2 Walk, was released on June 24, 2008, through Hypnotize Minds and Columbia Records. Featuring "Lolli," it reflected internal tensions but debuted at No. 1 on the US R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. By 2016, Three 6 Mafia's combined worldwide album sales exceeded 5.5 million units.

Compilation albums and EPs

Three 6 Mafia's early output included the underground Smoked Out, Loced Out, released in 1994 as their first under the name Triple Six Mafia. This precursor to their debut album featured raw, lo-fi tracks with elements, hosted by and , including radio call-ins and early demos that showcased the group's style. The tape circulated locally and helped build their underground following before wider recognition. In 1999, the group released Underground Vol. 1: 1991–1994, a compilation collecting 15 tracks from their formative years, including instrumentals and early recordings by original members like , , and . Issued on Smoked Out Records on March 2, it captured the gritty, gangsta-infused sound of their pre-debut era, with songs like "Ridin' N' Da Chevy" highlighting affiliate contributions. The project served as an archival release for fans, emphasizing their roots in Memphis . Underground Vol. 2: Club Memphis, released on August 24, 1999, via Smoked Out Records, compiled 19 tracks focused on club and party vibes from their early catalog, including remixes and collaborations with affiliates like . It bridged their underground roots with more accessible Southern rap elements. The following year, Underground Vol. 3: Kings of Memphis arrived on October 31, 2000, as the third installment in the series, compiling 16 tracks with remixes and new material from the camp. Released via Smoked Out Records, it included collaborations like "M.E.M.P.H.I.S." () and "Smokin on Da Dro," reinforcing the group's dominance in Southern rap with themes of street life and supernatural motifs. This volume solidified their compilation efforts by blending unreleased cuts with polished production. Choices: The Album, released in 2001 on , functioned as the to the film Choices, featuring 21 new tracks and skits with guests like and . The project expanded the group's sound into cinematic territory, with standout cuts like "2-Way Freak" and "Mafia" driving its narrative tie-in. It marked a commercial pivot, integrating original music with movie promotion. The 2005 sequel Choices II: The Setup, issued on , served as the soundtrack to the follow-up film, compiling 20 tracks including an intro skit and songs like "Who Da Fuck You Playin' Wit?" Packaged with a DVD of the movie, it continued the franchise's blend of hip-hop and , featuring production from and contributions from core members. The release maintained the group's momentum in multimedia ventures. Post-hiatus, Da Mafia 6ix—a reconfiguration of Three 6 Mafia excluding —debuted with the 2013 mixtape 6ix Commandments, hosted by Trap-A-Holics and featuring 11 tracks like "Go Hard" with . Released independently on December 17, this compilation-style project revived the group's trap and aesthetics with members including , , and Koopsta Knicca. It represented a continuation of their legacy through raw, street-focused material.

Filmography and media

Feature films and directorial works

Three 6 Mafia members and starred in and produced Choices (2001), a low-budget independent video film under their label and shot primarily in their hometown of , and directed by Gil Green. The story follows a semi-autobiographical of local hustlers grappling with moral conflicts, , and redemption, starring group affiliates including as DJ, as J, as Pat, and as Chat. The duo starred in and produced the sequel Choices II: The Setup (2005), another independent production directed by Dale Stelly, that amps up the action with a plot centered on two Memphis hustlers (played by and ) whose botched heist leads to entanglement with corrupt DEA agents demanding a larger score for their freedom. Released alongside a featuring original tracks from the group, the film maintains the raw, street-level aesthetic of its predecessor while incorporating more thriller elements. Beyond their production works, Three 6 Mafia appeared in cameo roles in the 2005 drama , a depicting the Memphis underground rap scene, where they contributed to the authenticity of its portrayal through on-screen presence and a key track. These films, characterized by minimal budgets and DIY production values, echo the gritty themes of urban survival and hustling prevalent in the group's music, serving as extensions of their ethos without relying on mainstream Hollywood resources.

Television and video game appearances

Three 6 Mafia made notable television appearances that highlighted their musical performances and comedic contributions. In 2006, the group served as musical guests on the season two premiere of Nick Cannon Presents: Wild 'N Out, hosted by on , where they performed alongside as the black team captain. They returned for another episode featuring Brooke Hogan as squad captain, participating in improv sketches and delivering a performance that blended their style with the show's energetic format. In December 2021, Three 6 Mafia faced off against in a highly anticipated battle streamed on Triller, performing hits like "Tear da Club Up '97" and "Stay Fly" to an audience of over 300,000 viewers; the event escalated into a brief physical altercation involving and Three 6 Mafia members, showcasing their enduring influence in Southern hip-hop. The group's music has been prominently featured in video games, extending their reach to gaming audiences and contributing to mainstream crossover. In Saints Row (2006), "Who I Is" featuring Trillville and Lil Wyte plays on the 101.69 Sizzurp FM station, aligning with the game's chaotic, street-level action and amplifying the song's raw, party-ready vibe. Additionally, the Three 6 Mafia remix of Santigold's "Shove It," featuring Project Pat, is included in Fight Night Round 4 (2009), providing a high-energy backdrop for boxing matches and highlighting their production prowess in crossover collaborations. These inclusions in popular video games significantly boosted Three 6 Mafia's visibility beyond hip-hop circles, introducing their sound to millions of gamers and solidifying their role in shaping early 2000s pop culture through . Behind-the-scenes content, such as the DVD release tied to their film Choices: The Movie, offered fans insights into their creative process during this period of rising fame.

Awards and nominations

Academy Awards

Three 6 Mafia won the Academy Award for Best Original Song at the for "It's Hard out Here for a Pimp," from the 2005 film . The song's lyrics were credited to Jordan Houston (), Cedric Coleman (also known as ), and Paul Beauregard (). The track was composed specifically for the film's protagonist, DJay—a Memphis pimp aspiring to become a rapper—highlighting the struggles of street life in a raw, authentic hip-hop style that resonated with the movie's narrative. The ceremony took place on March 5, 2006, at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, California. During the event, Three 6 Mafia performed the song live, joined by —who had sung the chorus in the film—for a high-energy rendition featuring dancers, elaborate lighting, and a cleaned-up version to suit broadcast standards. Their win marked the first time a hip-hop group received an Oscar in this category, beating nominees including Dolly Parton's "Travelin' Thru" from Transamerica and Bird York's "In the Deep" from Crash. This achievement built on the precedent set by Eminem's "" in 2003, underscoring hip-hop's growing mainstream legitimacy in film soundtracks. The victory had a profound cultural impact, symbolizing a breakthrough for Southern rap and Memphis's underground scene on a global stage typically dominated by pop and traditional scores. Post-win, the group participated in numerous media interviews, reflecting on the surreal experience and its validation of their gritty sound. The Oscar significantly boosted sales of their 2005 album , which featured the song and achieved from the RIAA, propelled by heightened visibility and radio play.

Other major awards and nominations

In addition to their Academy Award achievement, Three 6 Mafia garnered recognition across major music ceremonies, highlighting their impact on Southern hip-hop during the mid-2000s. At the 2006 , the group was nominated for Best Group, acknowledging their rising prominence as a collective force in rap. Their breakthrough single "Stay Fly" earned a for Best Rap Video at the 2006 , competing against high-profile entries like Kanye West's "" and reflecting the track's cultural resonance in hip-hop visuals. The group achieved their sole win in this period at the 2008 , taking home Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Band, Duo or Group for their body of work, including albums like , which solidified their status among peers such as G-Unit and . They received a further nomination for Best Group at the 2009 . These honors, comprising one win and several nominations, emphasized Three 6 Mafia's role in elevating on national stages, though they remained more celebrated for innovation than trophy hauls compared to mainstream contemporaries.

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  50. https://juggalogathering.com/performer/three-6-mafia/
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