Suprême NTM, an acronym teeming with defiance and symbolizing the rage against stifling societal norms, has been more than just a hip-hop group. It's a cultural movement that carved the gritty textures of French rap, galvanized a voice for the voiceless, and charged through the music scene with potent lyricism and an undeniable presence.
Formed in the crucible of Saint-Denis, a suburb painting the quintessential portrait of French societal divides, in 1989, Suprême NTM comprised rappers Joey Starr and Kool Shen. Their sonic journey wasn't merely about laying tracks; it was about blazing a trail through the dense forest of racial and class inequalities that marked France's landscape.
The Roots of Rebellion
Gutting lyrics and acute awareness of their lived realities birthed albums infusing hardcore rap with veins of funk, soul, and reggae influences as they evolved. Tracks like Pose ton Gun became anthems, reverberating the message of resistance and the plea for tranquility amidst the chaos. Their stance was clear; their music was their megaphone.
Branching Beyond Music
Their last original album under the Suprême NTM moniker was released in 1998, marking a pivotal alteration in their career trajectory. Joey Starr and Kool Shen extended their artistic compass to canvases undefined by the constraints of music alone. They turned their attention to new terrains with personal labels, promoting fresh talent and venturing into ventures like the clothing industry.
While the NTM name has continued to echo through history, with various projects keeping their legacy alive, the band members themselves acknowledged the end of an era by the late '90s.
Artistry and Influence
The dichotomy of styles between the two rappers intensified the impact of their message. Joey Starr, with his deep, booming voice and slow flow, offered a fierce contrast to Kool Shen's funkier, wittier delivery. This combination not only set stages ablaze but also inspired generations of artists who saw in them the unabashed rawness that became the hallmark of French rap.
