Memphis rap would have been a very different beast without Three 6 Mafia, the pioneers of the gritty, bass-heavy sound which was unlike anything heard before. The group emerged in the early ’90s, and their influence can still be heard today in modern hip-hop. However, despite their contribution to the genre, Three 6 Mafia’s journey has been far from smooth sailing.
In this blog post, we’re going to delve deep into the world of Three 6 Mafia mixtapes, exploring some of their greatest works while also answering some frequently asked questions about the group. We’ll take a look at their discography, rank their albums, examine the original members’ histories, and explore why Three 6 Mafia broke up in the first place.
We’ll also cover some interesting trivia about the group that you might not know, such as whether Three 6 Mafia are affiliated with the Crips, or whether Project Pat is part of the lineup. Plus, we’ll take a closer look at the iconic album ‘When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1’ and give you some insight on the mixtape cover albums.
All this and more is coming your way in this exciting exploration of Three 6 Mafia’s mixtape legacy. Make sure you keep reading to find out everything you ever wanted to know about the pioneers of Memphis rap!
Ranking 3 6 Mafia’s Albums
As one of the pioneers of Southern rap, Three 6 Mafia has blessed us with numerous hit mixtapes and studio albums throughout the years. Here’s a rundown of their most notable albums, ranked from worst to best:
8. Last 2 Walk (2008)
While it’s not a terrible album, Last 2 Walk is probably Three 6 Mafia’s weakest project. Despite featuring collaborations with some big names in the industry like Lil Jon and Akon, the album doesn’t quite live up to the hype.
7. Laws of Power (2011)
Laws of Power is one of Three 6 Mafia’s most experimental albums, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, it feels like the group may have strayed too far from their Southern roots with this one.
6. World Domination (1997)
World Domination is the album that put Three 6 Mafia on the map. While it shows a lot of promise and features some classic tracks like “Tear da Club Up,” the album falls short compared to some of their later projects.
5. Choices II: The Setup (2005)
Choices II: The Setup is one of Three 6 Mafia’s most cohesive albums. The skits and interludes between tracks add a layer of storytelling that makes the album feel complete.
4. Da Unbreakables (2003)
Da Unbreakables is a gritty and raw album that showcases Three 6 Mafia’s signature sound. The album features collaborations with some of the biggest names in Southern rap like Lil Flip and Project Pat.
3. When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1 (2000)
When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1 is a classic album that captures the essence of Southern rap. With hits like “Sippin’ on Some Syrup” and “Who Run It,” this album is a must-listen for any Three 6 Mafia fan.
2. Mystic Stylez (1995)
Three 6 Mafia’s debut album, Mystic Stylez, is a certified classic. The album’s eerie beats and dark lyrics set the tone for the group’s future projects. To this day, songs like “Tear da Club Up” and “Da Summer” are still fan favorites.
1. Chapter 2: World War III (1997)
Chapter 2: World War III is Three 6 Mafia’s magnum opus. The album features some of the group’s most iconic tracks, including “Late Nite Tip” and “Body Parts.” For many fans, this album represents the peak of Three 6 Mafia’s career.
In conclusion, Three 6 Mafia has left an undeniable mark on Southern rap, and their albums continue to be a source of inspiration for many artists today. While they’ve had some missteps along the way, their best work is nothing short of legendary.
Is Three Six Mafia Crips?
Three Six Mafia is a legendary rap group hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, that has made a significant impact on the hip hop scene for over three decades. The group is well-known for their raunchy lyrics, infectious beats, and use of synths. However, there have been rumors circulating that Three Six Mafia is affiliated with the Crips gang. In this section, we’ll explore the truth behind this claim.
The Origin of the Rumors
The rumors about Three Six Mafia being associated with the Crips appeared in the early 2000s, around the same time they released their hit album “Choices.” Many of the group’s members were seen sporting the color blue, which is often associated with the Crips gang. This led people to believe that Three Six Mafia was affiliated with the gang.
The Truth
Despite the rumors, there is no evidence that Three Six Mafia is associated with the Crips or any other gang. In fact, the group has stated in interviews that they are not affiliated with any gang. They have also called out other rappers who claim to be in gangs, saying that it’s not something to be glorified.
In conclusion, Three Six Mafia is not a part of the Crips gang, and the rumors are unsubstantiated. While it is true that the group members have been seen sporting the color blue, there is no evidence that proves their affiliation with the Crips or any other gang.
Key Takeaways
- Three Six Mafia is not associated with the Crips or any other gang.
- The rumors about their affiliation with the Crips stem from the group members wearing the color blue.
- Three Six Mafia has spoken out against glorifying gangs in their music and in hip hop culture.
Who Died from Three 6 Mafia?
Three 6 Mafia is an American hip hop group formed in 1991 in Memphis, Tennessee. Since their formation, the group has experienced several personnel changes. Here are the members of Three 6 Mafia who have died:
1. Lord Infamous
- Born Ricky Dunigan, Lord Infamous was a founding member of Three 6 Mafia.
- He died on December 20, 2013, at the age of 40.
- Cause of death: heart attack.
2. Koopsta Knicca
- Born Robert Phillips, Koopsta Knicca was also a founding member of Three 6 Mafia.
- He died on October 9, 2015, at the age of 40.
- Cause of death: brain aneurysm.
3. MC Mack
- Born Marcus McFarlin, MC Mack was not a member of Three 6 Mafia, but he was known to collaborate with the group.
- He died on May 12, 2021, at the age of 47.
- Cause of death: gunshot wounds.
It’s always sad when members of a band or music group pass away. However, the legacy of Three 6 Mafia lives on, and their music continues to be appreciated by fans around the world.
Three 6 Mafia Albums in Order
If you’re a fan of Three 6 Mafia, you know that they have a vast discography that spans over two decades. With so many albums to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this section, we’ll take a deeper look at Three 6 Mafia’s albums in order of release to help you navigate their extensive catalog.
Mystic Stylez (1995)
- Released in 1995, Mystic Stylez is a classic Three 6 Mafia album that helped pave the way for the group’s success.
- It features the iconic song “Tear Da Club Up,” which remains a fan favorite to this day.
- If you’re looking to get into Three 6 Mafia’s earlier work, Mystic Stylez is an excellent place to start.
Chapter 1: The End (1996)
- Chapter 1: The End is Three 6 Mafia’s second album, released in 1996.
- It features a darker and more ominous sound than Mystic Stylez, with standout tracks like “Break da Law ’95” and “Live by Yo Rep (B.O.N.E. Dis).”
- This album proved that Three 6 Mafia was more than a one-hit wonder and solidified their place as one of the most influential groups in hip-hop.
Chapter 2: World Domination (1997)
- Chapter 2: World Domination is Three 6 Mafia’s third album, released in 1997.
- This album is jam-packed with hits, including “Stay Fly” and “Poppin’ My Collar.”
- World Domination marked a significant turning point for the group, as they began to gain mainstream recognition and appeal to a broader audience.
When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1 (2000)
- When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1 is Three 6 Mafia’s fourth album, released in 2000.
- It features the group’s biggest hit to date, “Sippin’ on Some Syrup,” as well as other hits like “Who Run It” and “Side 2 Side.”
- This album solidified Three 6 Mafia’s place in hip-hop history and proved that they were a force to be reckoned with.
Choices: The Album (2001)
- Choices: The Album is a soundtrack album for the Three 6 Mafia movie “Choices,” released in 2001.
- It features several new Three 6 Mafia tracks, as well as songs from other artists like Gangsta Boo and Frayser Boy.
- While not as well-known as some of the group’s other albums, Choices: The Album still has some standout tracks, such as “We Shootin’ 1st” and “Stomp.”
Da Unbreakables (2003)
- Da Unbreakables is Three 6 Mafia’s sixth album, released in 2003.
- It features collaborations with artists like Lil Flip and Sean Paul, as well as hits like “Who I Is” and “Ridin’ Spinners.”
- This album showcases Three 6 Mafia’s ability to evolve their sound while still staying true to their roots.
Most Known Unknown (2005)
- Most Known Unknown is Three 6 Mafia’s seventh album, released in 2005.
- It features the group’s biggest hit to date, “Stay Fly,” as well as other hits like “Poppin’ My Collar” and “Side 2 Side.”
- This album cemented Three 6 Mafia’s place in the mainstream and established them as one of the most successful rap groups of all time.
Last 2 Walk (2008)
- Last 2 Walk is Three 6 Mafia’s eighth album, released in 2008.
- It features collaborations with artists like Akon and Project Pat, as well as hits like “Lolli Lolli (Pop That Body)” and “Doe Boy Fresh.”
- While not as critically acclaimed as some of the group’s other albums, Last 2 Walk is still a solid addition to Three 6 Mafia’s discography.
In conclusion, Three 6 Mafia has released an impressive array of albums throughout their career, each with its own unique sound and style. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just getting into their music, this guide to their albums in order is a great place to start exploring their catalog.
“Three Six Mafia Mixtape Covers: The Art behind the Sound”
Three Six Mafia is an iconic hip-hop group that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. Their music is not only thrilling but also visually appealing. Three Six Mafia mixtape covers are a perfect representation of their music and creative skills.
History of Three Six Mafia Mixtape Covers
Three Six Mafia began with making physical mixtapes from their neighborhood in Memphis in the ’90s. Back then, they would burn the songs onto CDs, print custom covers, and sell them out of the trunk of their car. Over the years, the covers have evolved from the DIY aesthetic to a more polished and professional look.
Elements in Three Six Mafia Mixtape Covers
Three Six Mafia mixtape covers have a distinct style that reflects the group’s unique sound. Some of the elements that are common in most of their mixtape covers include:
- Bold and heavily saturated colors
- Creative typography
- Intriguing artwork
- Pictures of the group members
- Playful and sometimes gory imagery
These elements capture the audience’s attention from the start and prepare them for the music ahead.
Notable Three Six Mafia Mixtape Covers
Three Six Mafia has released numerous mixtapes with unique covers that stand out from the rest. Some of the notable covers include:
- “Mafia 6ix Commandments” mixtape cover, which features an illustration of the group members holding guns in a dimly lit alleyway.
- “The Blue tape” mixtape cover, which uses a blue and white color scheme with a picture of a blue butterfly.
- “Da Unbreakables” mixtape cover has a classic Three Six Mafia style with bold typography and a picture of the members surrounded by flames.
The Impact of Three Six Mafia Mixtape Covers
Three Six Mafia mixtape covers are just as important as their music. They create a visual representation of their sound, and fans can easily identify their releases. These covers also serve as a symbol of the group’s success and impact on the hip-hop industry.
In conclusion, Three Six Mafia mixtape covers are a significant part of their music. They are visually stunning and perfectly represent the group’s sound. The group’s creativity shines through the covers, and they’re sure to capture the attention of anyone who comes across them.
Three 6 Mafia Original Members
Three 6 Mafia is a prominent hip-hop group that has been around since the early 90s. The group was founded in Memphis, Tennessee, by DJ Paul, Juicy J, and Lord Infamous. As the group evolved, other members joined in, but these three were the original members.
DJ Paul
- DJ Paul, whose real name is Paul Duane Beauregard, was born on October 13th, 1977.
- He is a rapper, DJ, and record producer.
- DJ Paul is known for his distinctive beats and horrorcore lyrics.
- He has produced for many famous artists, such as Lil Wayne, 8Ball & MJG, and the late Pimp C.
- DJ Paul was the one who came up with the name “Three 6 Mafia” in 1991.
Juicy J
- Juicy J, whose real name is Jordan Michael Houston, was born on April 5th, 1975.
- He is a rapper, songwriter, and record producer.
- Juicy J is known for his energetic flow and catchy hooks.
- He has won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp” from the movie Hustle & Flow.
- Juicy J has also collaborated with many popular artists, such as Katy Perry, Wiz Khalifa, and The Weeknd.
Lord Infamous
- Lord Infamous, whose real name is Ricky Dunigan, was born on November 17th, 1973.
- He was a rapper, songwriter, and record producer.
- Lord Infamous was known for his dark and violent lyrics, which contributed heavily to the group’s horrorcore sound.
- He left the group in 2006 but continued to produce music until his death in 2013.
- Lord Infamous was DJ Paul’s half-brother.
These original members laid the foundation of Three 6 Mafia’s unique sound, which blended Southern hip-hop with horrorcore rap. Their influential style has paved the way for many artists in hip-hop, and their legacy continues to inspire new musicians in today’s music industry.
Why Three 6 Mafia Split Up?
Three 6 Mafia is one of the most iconic hip hop groups in the history of the genre. With an impressive discography that includes over thirty albums, mixtapes, and EPs, it’s no surprise that fans were devastated when they broke up. But why did the group split? Here are the main reasons:
Creative Differences
Like many other bands, Three 6 Mafia split due to creative differences. The group members had different ideas about the direction in which they wanted to take their music. Juicy J, for instance, wanted to explore more pop and mainstream sounds, while DJ Paul wanted to stick to the group’s roots and maintain their signature dark, hypnotic sound.
Financial Issues
As with any business venture, financial issues can put a strain on relationships. The members of Three 6 Mafia had some disagreements about how the group’s earnings should be distributed. There were concerns that some members were not getting their fair share, which led to tension and eventually contributed to the group’s split.
Legal Troubles
The members of Three 6 Mafia had their share of legal troubles, which also contributed to their split. In 2012, Juicy J left the group to focus on his solo career, while DJ Paul continued with the group under a different name, Da Mafia 6ix. In 2015, DJ Paul filed a lawsuit against Juicy J, alleging that he had not received his fair share of royalties for some of the group’s songs.
Personal Issues
Personal issues can also affect group dynamics. The members of Three 6 Mafia had known each other since they were teenagers, and over time, personal issues and disagreements began to surface. Some members wanted to pursue other ventures outside of music, while others were more focused on the group. These differences eventually led to the split of the group.
The split of Three 6 Mafia was a significant loss for hip hop fans worldwide. While it’s always tough to see favorite bands break up, it’s important to remember that creative differences, financial issues, legal troubles, and personal issues are common culprits. Despite the split, the legacy of Three 6 Mafia lives on, and their music will continue to inspire artists and fans alike.
Is Project Pat a Member of Three 6 Mafia?
If you’re a hip hop lover, you might have come across the name Three 6 Mafia. It’s a group of talented musicians who have released chart-topping mixtapes, albums, and hit singles, but you may be wondering if Project Pat is part of the group. Here’s what you need to know:
Background of Three 6 Mafia and Project Pat
Three 6 Mafia is a group that originated from Memphis, Tennessee, in the early 90s. The group’s members consist of DJ Paul, Juicy J, and other rappers affiliated with them. They released their debut album in 1995, and since then, they have released numerous mixtapes and albums.
Project Pat is also a rapper from Memphis, Tennessee. He’s gained popularity in the music industry for his unique flow, and his real name is Patrick Stephen Houston. He is the older brother of Juicy J, a member of Three 6 Mafia.
Is Project Pat a Member of Three 6 Mafia?
Technically speaking, Project Pat is not a member of Three 6 Mafia, although he’s affiliated with them. He has worked with the group on several songs and collaborated with them on different projects. His first album, “Ghetty Green,” was produced by Juicy J and DJ Paul, both members of Three 6 Mafia. The album was a massive success, and it laid the foundation for Project Pat’s successful career.
Project Pat’s Relation with Three 6 Mafia
Project Pat has established a long-standing relationship with Three 6 Mafia, and he has contributed to their success in different ways:
- He has featured on some of their mixtapes and albums, such as “Mystic Stylez,” “Da Unbreakables,” “Most Known Unknown,” and others.
- He has collaborated with Three 6 Mafia members on different songs, such as “Chickenhead,” “Poppin’ My Collar,” “Lolli Lolli (Pop That Body),” and others.
- He has toured with Three 6 Mafia, performing at shows and concerts to promote their music.
In conclusion, Project Pat is not a member of Three 6 Mafia, but he has worked with them on different projects, and their relationship spans many years. His contribution to the group’s music has not gone unnoticed, and he remains a respected figure in the music industry.
Triple 6 Mafia vs Three 6 Mafia
Fans of Three 6 Mafia may have heard their favorite Memphis rap group referred to as “Triple 6 Mafia” at some point, which begs the question: are these two names interchangeable? The answer is both yes and no. Let’s dive into the details:
The Origin Story of Triple 6 Mafia
Triple 6 Mafia was the original name chosen by DJ Paul and Juicy J when they formed the group in the early 1990s. The name was inspired by the three 6’s in a phone number prefix in their hometown of Memphis, Tennessee.
The Three 6 Mafia Rebrand
In 2000, the group officially changed its name to Three 6 Mafia, dropping the “Triple” altogether. In an interview with The FADER, DJ Paul explained the reasoning behind the name change: “Basically, we were just trying to make it easier for people to say our name.”
Are They Really That Different?
In terms of musical style and content, there is no real difference between Triple 6 Mafia and Three 6 Mafia. They are the same group, with the same members and the same catalog of songs. The “Triple” in Triple 6 is simply an alternative version of the “Three” in Three 6, so fans need not worry about missing out on any key tracks if they come across the old name.
Key Takeaways
- Triple 6 Mafia was the original name of the group, inspired by a phone number prefix in Memphis.
- In 2000, the group changed its name to Three 6 Mafia to streamline branding efforts.
- From a musical perspective, there is no difference between the two names – they refer to the same iconic Memphis rap group.
So, whether you call them Triple 6 or Three 6, there’s no denying the influence that this group of rap pioneers has had on the industry.
“When the Smoke Clears”: A Classic Three 6 Mafia Mixtape
Released in 2000, “When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1” is arguably one of the best mixtapes of all time. Three 6 Mafia, the Memphis-based hip hop group, created an impressive piece of work that is still celebrated today by fans and industry players alike.
Here are some fascinating facts about this iconic mixtape:
The Tracks and Features
- “When the Smoke Clears” boasts of 23 songs, which include both skits and full tracks.
- The mixtape has featured appearances from notable artists, such as Gangsta Boo, Fiend, Lil’ Flip, and UGK, among others.
- Three 6 Mafia member Lord Infamous featured in nine tracks on the mixtape, cementing his place as one of the group’s most prominent members.
Commercial Success
- When “When the Smoke Clears” first dropped, it peaked at number six on the US Billboard 200 chart, an impressive feat for a mixtape.
- By the year 2000, Three 6 Mafia had already won an Academy Award for their hit “It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp,” from the “Hustle & Flow” soundtrack. It’s safe to say that the group had gained a solid reputation in the music industry.
Sampling Techniques
- Three 6 Mafia have always been known for their unique sampling techniques, and “When the Smoke Clears” is no different. The mixtape includes samples from various sources, such as horror movies and classic rock songs.
- The song “Sippin’ on Some Syrup” features samples from Three 6 Mafia’s previous work, “Late Night Tip” and “N 2 Deep.”
Themes and Lyrics
- “When the Smoke Clears” deals with several themes, including street life, drug use, sex, and violence. The members of Three 6 Mafia never shy away from the realities of life in their music.
- The lyrics on “When the Smoke Clears” are as catchy as they are explicit. Lines such as “Sippin’ on some sizzurp, sip, sippin’ on some, sip” from “Sippin’ on Some Syrup” were a hit with fans.
Legacy
- “When the Smoke Clears” is undoubtedly a fan favorite and one of the most loved Three 6 Mafia mixtapes. The impacts it has had on the music industry are still evident today, 21 years after its release.
- In 2020, Three 6 Mafia announced that they were working on a re-release of “When the Smoke Clears,” much to the delight of their fans worldwide.
In conclusion, “When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1” is a work of art that has transcended time and continues to inspire young artists. If you haven’t listened to it yet, I highly recommend that you do.