Marley Marl
Marley Marl was Mr. Magic’s on-air assistant on his radio show as well as the producer for all the Juice Crew artists during the height of their popularity. Marley started the tradition of ”battle” records early on when he had his girlfriend Dimple D do an answer record aimed at Run-DMC. The record came out in 1983 and was titled “Sucker DJ’s (I Will Survive)”, based on Run-DMC’s ”Sucker M.C.’s” from the same year. Other than producing many classic tracks for the Juice Crew, he also produced LL Cool J’s classic comeback album Mama Said Knock You Out from 1990.
Biz Markie
Biz Markie, often called the “clown prince of hip-hop,” hailed from Long Island rather than Queensbridge. Renowned for his charismatic presence and humor-infused lyrics, Biz brought a playful energy to the Juice Crew. Beyond rapping, he explored acting and reality TV. His most iconic track, “Just A Friend” (1989), reached #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and showcased his unique blend of rapping and singing.
Kool G Rap
Kool G Rap is widely regarded as one of the most technically skilled and influential rappers of his generation. His early adoption of mafioso and street narrative styles helped shape the direction of hip-hop in the 1990s. Known for his complex rhymes and “superhuman breath control,” G Rap has remained a prolific force, releasing ten albums since 1989 and earning respect for his consistency and innovation.
Tragedy Khadafi / Intelligent Hoodlum
Tragedy Khadafi, originally known as Intelligent Hoodlum, emerged from the Queensbridge projects and overcame a challenging upbringing. Starting as part of the Super Kids duo, he joined the Juice Crew in the mid-1980s. After a stint in prison, he adopted the Five Percenter philosophy and changed his stage name. Tragedy became known for his appearances on Capone-N-Noreaga’s “War Report” and for his ongoing influence and lyrical feuds within the hip-hop community.