Atlanta hip hop duo Outkast - composed of Andre Benjamin and Antwan Patton - have achieved incredible success in the music industry, winning six Grammy Awards, selling 25 million records worldwide, and having a lasting impact on its genre.

Their distinctive style and daring approach to lyricism have earned them a place among the all-time greats of this genre. Their classic albums such as Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik (1994), ATLiens (1996), Aquemini (1998), Stankonia (2000) and Speakerboxxx/The Love Below (2003) all stand as classics within their genre.

Aquemini

On September 29th, 1998 OutKast released their third studio album Aquemini under the names Big Boi (Aquarius) and Gemini (Andre 3000). It earned platinum certification in November 1998 and peaked at number two on both Billboard 200 and Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums charts.

Recorded at Bobby Brown's Bosstown Recording Studios in Atlanta and Doppler Studios in New York City, Aquemini is an album of outer space-inspired compositions with live instrumentation. Lyrically, the album delves into topics such as human nature, addiction, self-inflicted struggles, technology and interpersonal relationships - making it a landmark moment in hip-hop history.

Aquemini is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums in hip-hop, setting itself apart with some of its lushest tracks ever included on a recording. According to Los Angeles Times writer Soren Baker, Aquemini "remains one of hip-hop's most influential records".

Although Aquemini was released over a decade ago, it still stands as a testament to OutKast's creativity and artistry in rap music. Their virtuosic production style helped cement their legacy as one of the industry's most acclaimed groups.

Big Boi and Andre 3000 blended various styles and genres to craft their distinctive sound. They utilized instruments from the guitar and piano to synthesizer, yet OutKast maintained a consistent, well-defined tone throughout the entirety of their album.

One of the key ingredients in Aquemini's success was their collaboration between OutKast and an extensive roster of session musicians. By working with professional producers, OutKast gained more creative control over production - allowing them to be more experimental and daring than they had been on their debut record, AT Liens. This allowed for greater experimentation throughout the project.

On their classic track "Da Art of Storytellin' (Part I"), Andre and Big Boi shared personal insights into their friendship and growing up in East Point, Georgia. This track earned The Source's 5 Mic rating, solidifying them as classics within hip-hop history.

Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik

Georgia, located in the southeast United States, is renowned for its diverse culture and large population. It's home to both the Okefenokee Swamp and Blue Ridge Mountains.

The state's economy relies heavily on agriculture and tourism, though the region has experienced economic decline in recent years.

This has primarily been caused by the 2008 recession, which saw unemployment jump to 19 percent. Furthermore, there was a shortage of housing and energy in the state - leading many people to relocate elsewhere. Southern Georgia in particular is becoming increasingly attractive to this population due to its proximity to major cities like Atlanta or Charlotte.

ATLiens

Big Boi and Andre 3000 broke away from the straight-up thug sound they established with Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik with their 1996 sophomore release ATLiens. Though these artists may have seemed aliens within the New York/Los Angeles-dominated hip hop scene they helped pioneer, their unique approaches on this record created a new type of rap that wasn't constrained by either gangsta culture or mainstream audiences.

Many were taken aback by ATLiens' futuristic production and characters created by Big Boi and Andre. These new musical and lyrical approaches helped them break away from traditional hip-hop fans while drawing in more people who might otherwise have overlooked Outkast's music.

On ATLiens, Outkast's lyrics are both poignant and humorous at the same time. Songs like "13th Floor/Growing Old," for instance, provide Andre with an opportunity to reflect on aging while remaining relatable and approachable in his language style.

Outkast's style of writing allows them to balance their passion and wit with personal experiences, creating an album that's deeply felt yet also deeply rooted in Atlanta street culture. The reverb-heavy beats on this record are perfect nod-your-head music, while Big Boi's smooth vocals will have you moving your body.

As a result, the duo's songs remain relevant today as they did 25 years ago. They successfully balance introspection with the energy that comes from being part of an emerging generation of artists - showing that hip-hop isn't just about getting rich; it's about finding your place in the world.

In honor of their 25th anniversary, Legacy Recordings and SME's Certified are releasing an expanded 25th anniversary deluxe edition of ATLiens this summer. This reissue includes the original ATLiens in its entirety as well as 14 previously unreleased instrumentals. Available on digital and vinyl formats, it comes complete with limited-edition anniversary merch.

In August 1996, Outkast's ATLiens album catapulted them to the top of Billboard charts after their 1994 debut. This marked Outkast as a formidable force that could compete with any rap group from New York or Los Angeles at that time. As such, ATLiens became an iconic milestone in hip-hop history that will never be forgotten.

Where Is Goodie Mob?

Goodie Mob (Cee-Lo, Big Gipp, Khujo and T-Mo) made their entrance onto the rap scene with their debut album Soul Food (1995), a mud-soaked statement that mixed down home wisdom with trenchant socio-political commentary.

Goodie Mob were one of the earliest Southern rap groups to achieve widespread recognition, helping shape Atlanta's rap scene. Before Cee-Lo left the group, they released two more albums - Still Standing (1998) and World Party (1999) - that cemented their legacy.

The History

Goodie Mob has a storied legacy as one of Southern hip hop's most influential and pioneering rap groups. They were the first group to coin the term "Dirty South," and their albums addressed serious social issues such as racism, discrimination, geopolitics, and gentrification head-on.

Khujo, Cee-Lo Green, T-Mo and Big Gipp formed the group in 1991 and gained notoriety for their raw style and social commentary on their debut album Soul Food, released in 1991.

Goodie Mob also brought attention to social issues of their time, such as drug abuse and apathy, while criticizing the music industry for its treatment of ghetto youth. During their peak popularity, Goodie Mob became a staple for radio shows and festivals across America.

After the release of their second album, Still Standing, the group briefly enjoyed mainstream success. However, with their third album World Party they departed from their hard-hitting socially conscious approach in favor of a more lighthearted and festive style.

In 2004, Cee-Lo Green chose to leave the group in order to pursue a solo career. Despite this, Big Gipp, T-Mo and Khujo remained within the ensemble.

Their subsequent album, One Monkey Don't Stop No Show, took a further detour from their original social message with songs like "All A's" and "Funky Things." Unfortunately, the record failed to achieve significant sales and Goodie Mob was eventually dropped by Arista Records due to this.

Since then, all four members have expressed their intention to get back together and record a new album. According to them, the project will aim at rebalancing their sound with contemporary rap music, particularly from Atlanta.

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This book chronicles the real-life stories of fifteen of America's most notorious mob bosses and their exploits prior to Prohibition. Authors O'Reilly and Dugard provide a captivating look into these men's lives as they rose to power, making this an essential read for all gangsters and crime enthusiasts.

The Members

Goodie Mob (which stands for "GOOD DIE Mostly Over Bullshit") is composed of Cee-Lo Green, Khujo Goodie, T-Mo and Big Gipp. All four members hail from Atlanta and were part of the Dungeon Family collective of Southern rappers that included OutKast and P.A.

Soul Food, their first album, produced hits like "Sell Therapy" and had a major influence on the Dirty South movement as they rapped about social and political issues such as gentrification and discrimination. Later they released two other albums - Still Standing (1998) and World Party (1999) - both certified gold in the US.

After Cee-Lo left for a solo career, T-Mo and Big Gipp also parted ways. Recently however, they have confirmed their reunion as men and have returned to the studio to record a new album.

Their latest record, Survival Kit, was released in mid-November and speaks directly to many of today's pressing issues. It includes songs about COVID-19 pandemic, Black Lives Matter movement and other protests.

Rap music desperately needed a fresh approach, and the group has delivered. It is an inspiration that these four men can come together and prove they can overcome adversity while continuing to thrive in their hometown of Atlanta.

They firmly believe that talent and hard work are the two essential ingredients for success in this business. The Goodie Mob have developed their leadership abilities by working tirelessly towards reaching their objectives.

Hard work and determination have propelled the group to success throughout their careers, enabling them to be part of so many iconic moments in hip-hop's evolution.

The group has released six full-length albums and are the only southern rapper to have a top 10 hit in the US with "Crazy." They are renowned for their conscious Southern sound and prophetic voice which they have shared with the world since 1991. Their sixth studio album, Survival Kit, addresses some of our country's pressing issues while offering some hope for a brighter future.

The Music

Rap music has a long-standing legacy, but none quite compare to Atlanta-based Goodie Mob. While these legendary artists are responsible for shaping hip hop culture, none can compare to their groundbreaking impact.

They are renowned for their conscious Southern sound, prophetic voice and profound understanding of social and political issues facing our world today. And now, with their sixth studio album Survival Kit, a group that had been apart for seven years is back together again ready to make an impact on the world once more.

Big Gipp, Cee-Lo, Khujo and T-Mo have joined forces to create an original brand of rap music that speaks directly to their listeners. Their songs are hard hitting, powerful and filled with catchy choruses.

Rappers have inspired a generation of activists to stand up for what they believe in and fight for what is right. Their message is not only about reinforcing their convictions and standing up for their families, but also taking a stand against the injustices of modern life.

Aside from their impressive lyrical abilities, the group is also renowned for their musical production. They've collaborated with artists like Chuck D, Andre 3000 and Big Boi.

Soul Food, the band's debut album, earned them high praise from publications such as The Source, XXL, Rappages and VIBE - becoming the first rap album to be covered by those publications and becoming a major hit in the South.

In 1998, Goodie Mob released their second album, Still Standing. Although it failed to reach the top of the charts, it still featured strong social commentary and Cee-Lo's singing.

On their third album, World Party, the group experimented with lighter beats and party-related themes. Their single "Sell Therapy," which reached number 39 on Billboard Hot 100, proved particularly popular - topping off at number 39.

Even with their success, the band was criticized for departing from its gritty roots. Some of their albums failed commercially and received poor reception; additionally, Big Gipp left the group in 2004.

The Message

In the '90s, hip-hop suffered through a difficult decade. Goodie Mob made their mark on Southern playalisti cadillacmuzik by countering negativity with messages of hope and respect. Their debut album Soul Food achieved platinum success and had an immense effect on the industry as a whole.

The band's name was a nod to Atlanta's "Dirty South," where they grew up and were born, and their message was that they weren't ashamed of their roots nor unifying in their fight against injustice. Instead of dwelling on the misery in ghettos, they delivered powerful lyrics about social and political issues.

Their debut two albums, Soul Food and Still Standing, were met with critical acclaim. XXL Magazine featured them on its cover, while Rappages, The Source and VIBE all gave them recognition.

Goodie Mob's second album, World Party, was a major success and earned them gold record status in the U.S. The group reunited for the first time in 2006 to perform at Gnarls Barkley's concert in San Diego.

Goodie Mob were one of only two Southern rap groups to achieve major international success in the 1990s, and their lyrics often reflected on social justice movements of their day. Their songs address black people's struggles in today's world and aim to raise awareness about these problems by expressing their anger and frustration.

Goodie Mob have an eclectic sound, drawing inspiration from various musical genres such as rhythm-and-blues, gospel, trip-hop, hip-hop and rock music. As friends since childhood, the members formed Goodie Mob to express themselves creatively through their music.

Their music reflects the difficulties they experience as teenagers in Atlanta. While its messages may be difficult to hear, they do have a positive effect on those who listen.

Goodie Mob have been a mainstay in the hip hop music scene for years, leaving an indelible mark on many artists with their powerful messages that often touch upon politics or controversy without ever feeling preachy or exploitative. Their music continues to inspire generations of artists with its honest approach.

Where Is Silk?

Silk is an exquisite natural fiber, often associated with wealth and status. This delicate fabric can be found around the world in stunning beauty.

Origins remain mysterious, but it was developed in ancient China and has been an essential element of Chinese culture and trade ever since. Additionally, by the middle ages it had spread to Europe as well.

Origin

Silk is one of nature's most stunning and resilient fibers, known for its luxurious sheen. Popular in clothing, bedding and accessories around the world, silk offers unmatched durability and softness.

Silk was first discovered in ancient China when Si Ling Chi, the Chinese empress, accidentally discovered it while sipping hot tea under a mulberry tree in her palace gardens.

She had been gazing upon the sparkling cocoons created by various tiny worms in the mulberry trees. As she watched them unravel, a long thread of silk appeared that she soon realized was made from silk!

This discovery marked the inception of sericulture, an art form whereby farmers and harvesters of rare silk from domesticated silk worm cocoons. This industry flourished in China, producing everything from bowstrings to luxury paper and even providing employment for members of the Chinese bureaucracy.

Silkworm eggs, cocoons and mulberry seeds were highly valued in Chinese society during the 14th century BC and guarded with fierce zeal against anyone smuggling them out of China; those caught attempting this were immediately put to death.

As time passed, knowledge of silk spread westward to countries like Rome and Greece. These civilizations were drawn by its luxurious texture, refinement, and luxury aesthetic; they eagerly developed their own production as a means of expanding their trade networks.

However, it wasn't until 550 AD that silk weaving spread beyond China and became widely accessible to the rest of the world. Not only was it used in fabric creation, but silk was also spun into velvets for upholstery purposes.

Velvet is a dense, soft fabric made of various fibers such as silk or cotton. The quality of velvet depends on its pile density and the pattern created by cutting the warp threads.

History

Silk is one of the world's most luxurious fabrics. Known for its softness, smoothness, and shine, silk also holds a reputation as one of the strongest fibers available to mankind.

Silk has been around for millennia, playing an important role in fashion, culture and history. It remains one of the most widely used and beloved fibers today.

Silk is created from the cocoons of silkworms, which live in mulberry trees. After being fed with leaves from these trees, the worms unwound their cocoons to reveal long strands of silk.

Fabric is created by weaving together these strands, which can then be dyed and used for various purposes.

Sericulture, also known as silk production, was first developed in China but quickly spread throughout other nations.

Sericulture evolved, breeding silkworms for various characteristics and qualities. For instance, some were more resistant to pests than others while others could accelerate or slow the growth of their cocoons.

Silkworms were also selectively bred to produce different colored silk, through specialized dying and weaving techniques.

Once these silks were created, they could be woven into exquisite garments worn by royalty and elite members of society. The fabric was so valuable that it wasn't allowed to be smuggled out of China - an indication of its high value to China as a source for luxury items.

Its success spread to many countries around the world and continues to be an essential element in fabric industry today, found in products from bicycle tires to clothing.

Silk has been around since 27,000 BC in China. Initially used as a luxury material, it was exported along the legendary Silk Road to neighboring states such as Korea and Japan. Silk was an integral part of Chinese culture and provided much wealth for its people.

Uses

Silk is one of the world's most beloved fabrics, used for everything from clothing to household items. With centuries in existence, it remains one of the most versatile textiles available today.

Silk has many desirable characteristics that make it suitable for a range of uses. It is lightweight and soft yet strong, resistant to damage while being elastic enough to recover from tears or stretching.

Silk is also breathable and moisture releasable, allowing skin to retain its natural moisture without becoming overly dry. This property makes it especially useful during summer when silk helps keep bodies cool without promoting excessive sweating.

This fabric is ideal for sleepwear, with its tightly-woven fibres trapping moisture close to the skin. Not only does this keep your body hydrated and prevent creases and lines on the skin while you sleep, but it can also leave you with refreshed skin when you wake up in the morning.

Silk can also be used in lingerie, with various styles and cuts such as lace, satin or crepe available. Not only do these materials look stunning against the skin, but they're oh-so-soft against it too - giving you a luxurious experience every time you slip into them!

Silk is not only popular for lingerie, but it can be used on other types of clothing as well. Some silks retain their shape well while others drape beautifully and create soft folds for a dressy aesthetic.

Silk is not only used for garments, but also home furnishings and decorative wall hangings. This durable material allows designers to craft stunning, intricate designs that look fantastic displayed on the wall.

Silk is an expensive and delicate material, so it's essential to choose the right quality for your project. The momme number, a Japanese unit of weight measurement, can be helpful here; 17 momme being ideal for light items like scarves or underwear while 19-25 momme should be used for bed linens.

Fabricating silk requires nurturing larvae of insects undergoing their final metamorphosis, such as silkworms and web spinners. After these have completed their life cycles, the larvae spin a cocoon from which silk filament is extracted and spun into yarn or woven into cloth.

Production

Silk is a natural fiber created by insects such as silk worms, beetles, honeybees and weaver ants. It's used to craft clothing and other textiles and known for its softness, shine and versatility.

Sericulture, or the production of silk, has been around for millennia. It's an intricate process that necessitates great care and precision.

The initial step in silk production is collecting silkworms - usually mulberry (Bombyx mori) moths. These moths feed on mulberry leaves until they mature into adults and then lay eggs on a leaf. After one month of feeding on leaves, larvae spin cocoons that can produce up to 900 meters (2,950 feet) of thread each.

Once harvested, silk cocoons are soaked in boiling water to loosen its filaments. These are then carefully unwound by hand and sent off to a weaving factory where the raw material is dyed to create various shades.

Before dyeing, silk threads are treated to soften sericin - the sticky substance that makes up a cocoon. This helps keep the fibers together when they're twisted into threads and prevents them from tangling or fraying while being spun.

After sericin has softened, silk threads are dyed with various chemicals. Acid dyes, metal-complex dyes and reactive dyes are some of the dyes commonly used; these have the potential to affect biodegradability of silk as well as pollute local water supplies.

These chemical processes require large amounts of water, making them not particularly eco-friendly. Unfortunately, silk is an essential fiber in textiles and its production remains necessary for many economies.

Silk has many uses beyond its traditional applications. It's an integral component of lingerie and also found in home textiles like bedding and duvets.

The silk industry provides employment to an immense number of people and serves as a significant source of income for disadvantaged groups in developing countries. It serves as proof that social responsibility is an integral component of sustainable development.