Pete Rock and CL Smooth reunited last week to perform in London’s Relentlentless Garage in Highbury. After the show, the duo appeared on the Dan Greenpeace radio show to talk about Wendy Williams‘ role in breaking their first single, “They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y),” the Sylvia Rhone era of Elektra Records, and the feeling of performing onstage.
“Wendy Williams was the first one [to play our music]” said CL. “I remember her distinct words on the air. She was like ‘Oh my God, I love this! Oh my God Pete Rock and CL Smooth, these new guys!”
They explained that the change of administration within their old record label Elektra in the mid 90s led to a huge change in Hip Hop, for the worst.
Pete said, “What happened back then–not to talk bad about anyone–but I think when Sylvia Rhone came in the picture is when things started going haywire. And all the real rap groups that were once part of Elektra were no more. So, it was like a change that was coming to Hip Hop music. And it was about the dance and the club hits. But at the same time, we still practiced our craft and made other records and still put out our stuff independently. We didn’t bank on any more majors once we got off of Elektra.”
With their most recent (yet brief) reunion, the two artists say that being on stage is still an addicting experience.
“It’s nostalgic,” said CL. “It’s almost like an out of body experience…When you’re by yourself and you’re performing it’s cool and you enjoy it, but when you’re with that group it’s like you’re with the Beatles. It’s just awesome…like you don’t have to try hard, it’s just natural.”
Despite their working together, both artists expressed that they did not know what would come out of this most recent reunion tour.
“I enjoy not knowing [what’s going to happen in the future], said Pete. “I don’t want to know what’s around the corner. I just want to think positive, and by the time I turn the corner, I hope that there’s something beautiful in the basket.”
