Artifacts is an acclaimed hip-hop duo from Newark, New Jersey, consisting of El Da Sensei (William Williams) and Tame One (Rahem Brown). Making their mark in the early to mid-1990s, the pair is celebrated for their graffiti-inspired lyricism, gritty underground beats, and impressive wordplay. They struck a chord in the hip-hop community with their debut album, "Between A Rock And A Hard Place," released in 1994. This foundational work was well-received for its authentic sound and the hit single "Wrong Side of da Tracks," which paid homage to the art of graffiti, a key element of hip-hop culture.

Following their impactful entrance onto the scene, Artifacts continued to build their legacy with their sophomore album, "That's Them," released in 1997. The project was well-received and featured notable tracks such as "C'mon Wit Da Git Down" and "The Ultimate," solidifying their standing as potent lyricists and storytellers. In the years following, both members embarked on solo careers and collaborations with other artists, but they would occasionally reunite for performances. Despite the hiatus in their group discography, the respect they command in the hip-hop community remains undiminished, as evidenced by their sustained relevance and the timelessness of tracks such as "No Expiration Date," demonstrating the duo's enduring contribution to the genre.

Genres

Alternative Hip Hop

Hardcore Hip Hop

New Jersey Rap

Related Artists

A Tribe Called Quest

De La Soul

The Roots

Lil Wayne

Outkast

T.I.

MF DOOM

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony

Madlib

Twista

Mos Def

Gang Starr

Latest Release

No Expiration Date

Artifacts

Album - 10 Tracks - Released August 20, 2022