Apollo Brown's Collaborative Chronicles: A Top Ten Evaluation
We're detailing the magic of Apollo Brown's musical alliances in no order. #HipHop50
Achieving mastery in the field of sampling requires the utilization of various capabilities. Beyond the technical skills needed to manipulate source material, one must possess a broad knowledge of records often gained through years of intensive record hunting. Imagining and thinking creatively is another crucial component for adequate sampling. Apollo Brown, a seasoned hip-hop producer from Grand Rapids, Michigan, honed his craft amidst Detroit’s esteemed hip-hop landscape. Brown is considered a leader among underground hip-hop producers known for giving life to old records through his samples.
Over the past two decades, Brown has developed a deep and extensive body of work, shaping rich, soul-drenched beats for leading rappers. A proactive collaborator, Brown's portfolio includes collaborations with various contemporary rap's most acclaimed MCs. Brown has maintained an impressive streak recently, creating well-received albums for rappers such as Ché Noir, Joell Ortiz, Stalley, and R&B artist Raheem DeVaughn.
Here is a selection of ten of Brown’s most notable collaborative efforts. These projects exemplify his aptitude for transforming vintage samples into fresh beats that typically exude a triumphant, gritty, and brooding ambiance.
Boog Brown & Apollo Brown, Brown Study
Hailing from Detroit but now based in Atlanta, emcee Boog Brown is one of the most overlooked artists of her generation. She joined forces with then-emerging Detroit beatsmith Apollo Brown for Brown Study, an album that showcases her deep, laid-back lyricism paired with Brown's soulful beats. With her nuanced writing skills, appealing flow, and distinctive voice, Boog Brown holds her own, while Apollo Brown continues his trend of creating lush, bass-heavy beats. Brown Study is an album devoid of weak tracks and deserves attention, particularly songs like “Masterplan,” “Carpe Diem,” or “Understanding.”
The Left & Apollo Brown, Gas Mask
The Left, composed of Brown, Journalist 103, and DJ Soko, are remembered for their sole 2010 album, Gas Mask. The album, now regarded as one of the finest rap albums of its decade, is characterized by its strong beats and top-notch guest features, such as Marv Won, Haassaan Mackey, and Guilty Simpson. “Real Detroit,” for instance, is set ablaze by Marv Won’s smooth rhythm and commanding presence, while “Fooled Thought” is an introspective track driven by an intriguing brass fanfare.
O.C. & Apollo Brown, Trophies
O.C., a recognized hip-hop veteran, collaborated with Brown in 2012 for the album Trophies. O.C.'s hip-hop legacy is solid, whether through his solo albums, guest appearances with Organized Konfusion, or his involvement in D.I.T.C. Trophies is a notable addition to his collection, showcasing powerful tracks like “The Pursuit” and "We the People," which perfectly pairs with O.C.'s sharp observational verses.
Ugly Heroes, Ugly Heroes
Comprising of MCs Verbal Kent, Red Pill (now Chris Orrick), and Apollo Brown, Ugly Heroes introduced their self-titled collaborative debut album. Apollo Brown's sound is an homage to the nineties, complete with rich, bass-heavy beats, atmospheric strings, and piano chords. Ugly Heroes represents blue-collar hip-hop, focusing on the struggles of working-class life as experienced by Chicago and Detroit-based MCs Verbal Kent and Red Pill. The album deals with serious subjects and offers honest lyrics, complementing deep and slow beats.
Apollo Brown & Ras Kass, Blasphemy
Apollo Brown worked with renowned rapper Ras Kass on a reflective album that contemplates Ras' career and life. Ras’ lyrical dexterity is on full display here, guided by the theme of religion. Blasphemy also boasts various instrumental arrangements, keeping the production fresh and engaging. Notable contributors to this project include Pharoahe Monch, Royce da 5’9,” and Xzibit.
Apollo Brown & Skyzoo, The Easy Truth
The Easy Truth is Apollo Brown’s first team-up with Skyzoo. Skyzoo impresses with his storytelling skills, tackling current issues without sounding self-righteous. The album also boasts stellar features, with artists like Conway the Machine, Westside Gunn, Joell Ortiz, Stalley, and Patty Crash contributing.
Apollo Brown & Planet Asia, Anchovies
Anchovies is a collaborative album between Brown and Fresno, California rapper Planet Asia, where Brown's soul samples become minimalistic backdrops for Planet Asia's complex rhyme schemes. Notable tracks such as “Avant Garde” and “The Aura” feature chopped vocal samples and surreal lyrics.
Apollo Brown & Ché Noir, As God Intended
As God Intended, the album by Brown and Ché Noir tackles themes of violence, struggle, and faith. Ché Noir stands out on tracks like “Blood Is Thicker” and “Hustle Don’t Give.” The album concludes with “94”, a song in which Ché Noir reflects on the era's cultural milieu.
Raheem DeVaughn & Apollo Brown, Lovesick
In Lovesick, Brown joins forces with veteran soul singer Raheem DeVaughn from Washington, D.C. The blend of DeVaughn’s smooth vocals with Brown's hardcore hip-hop beats creates a unique balance. The album allows Brown to expand his signature sound with slick tracks like “When a Man.”
Apollo Brown & Philmore Greene, Cost of Living
The album Cost of Living is a collaboration between rapper Philmore Greene and producer Apollo Brown. It offers a sincere reflection on contemporary urban life, dealing with existential themes like life, death, and the cost of opportunities. Greene’s ability to deliver complex emotions and empathetic street narratives makes him an ideal collaborator for Brown’s rich musical backdrop.