5 Hype Men Who Deserve More Credit in Hip-Hop
When it comes to rap concerts--high energy is everything.
A rapper's performance is only good if the crowd is responding lively and wildly. Successful showmen can get people moving, but sometimes it takes a hype-man to help keep it rocking. Whether it be mic support, or being the right-hand man, check out some of our favorite hype men in hip hop.
Get Hype! 5 Great Hype Men in Hip-Hop
Memphis Bleek
Jay-Z is considered hip-hop royalty, and his man Memphis Bleek has helped hold Jay's crown high on stage since the 90s. As one of the first artists on the Roc-A-fella Records roster, Memph tore down stages with Hov across the globe. Jay said it best himself, "Bleek could be a hit away his whole career/ as long as I'm alive he's a millionaire."
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Tony Yayo
Before the G-Unit crew blew up, 50 cent was the main act. And who was there to support Curtis on his way to the top? Tony Yayo. You saw him in the "Wanksta" video with Lloyd Banks, and you saw him on stage with Fif when he was on the come up. With Yayo handling business before the spotlight hit him, it was a given he would become a star as well. He still rides with 50 Cent, too.
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Flavor Flav
One of the first hype-men to make a mainstream career for himself, Flav supported Chuck D and was a main component to the legendary rap group, Public Enemy. With his brand including a television show and fried chicken restaurant, Flava Flav may very well be the poster child of hype men.
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Freekey Zekey
Although we don't see the Diplomats performing like we used to, you can't forget about Freekey Zekey and his antics. He was the outspoken, wild card in the group and definitely made it known. From jumping around in the Dipset music videos, to his outspoken Smack DVD interviews, Freekey was one of the more memorable members of the crew and helped the Dipset bird fly high. Not to mention his catchy ad-lib, "Freekey!" had people yelling like maniacs.
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Spliff Star
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