PMD of EPMD

PMD (NYC)
Support: tbc

Parish Smith, professionally known as PMD (the Mic Doctor), stands as a pivotal figure in the evolution of hip-hop. Parish alongside Erick Sermon joined forces in their creative vision to create EPMD. Now PMD has established himself as a legend in hip-hop history with a career spanning over three decades. Known for his dope mellow voice coupled with his b-boy attitude, Smith’s contributions to hip-hop have solidified his status as one of the most respected hip-hop legends in the music industry.


EPMD debuted with the album “Strictly Business” marking the beginning of a revolutionary journey in hip-hop, blending deep funky beats with a strong lyrical flow on the mic. Follow-up albums such as “Business Never Personal” and “Unfinished Business” continued to capture the hearts of fans, DJs, and critics alike, establishing EPMD as a staple in hip-hop’s golden era. The duo’s innovative approach also paved the way for the formation of Hit Squad, giving rise to iconic emcees like Das EFX, Redman and K-Solo, further cementing their influence in hip-hop culture.

Despite facing challenges and a temporary disbandment in the mid-’90s, PMD moved forward to launch his solo career, releasing albums like “Shade Business” and “Business Is Business,” which, despite mixed reviews, showcased his resilience and adaptability. The reunification of EPMD for the “How To Be A Player” soundtrack reignited their legacy, leading to the release of “Back In Business” and “Out Of Business,” albums that contributed new classics to the hip-hop repertoire.
In the aftermath of EPMD’s departure from Def Jam, Smith embarked on a journey of reinvention. His alliance with the indie label Solid Records and the launch of Boon Dox Records underscored his commitment to the underground hip-hop scene. The release of “The Awakening,” his third solo album, marked a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing a refined blend of hardcore rhymes and funk-infused beats, featuring collaborations with hip-hop stars like Fat Joe, Erick Sermon, and Pete Rock. PMD then linked up with the Snowgoons, which created tours overseas. The tour covered several countries, which sparked an album called the Goondox. This album was recorded in Europe featuring PMD, DJ Illegal & Sean Strange. After the success of that run, P went on to record his fourth solo album “Business Mentality”. Bringing the boom bap back.
Today, in addition to his musical endeavors, PMD embraces the role of mentor, nurturing the next generation of hip-hop talent. His future projects, including a collaboration album with DJ Honda titled “Underground Connection,” promise to further contribute to his legacy in hip-hop culture.
As PMD continues to navigate the complexities of the music industry, his journey from a pioneering b-boy to a revered hip-hop legend shows his unwavering dedication to hip-hop and its globalculture. Parish Smith’s legacy is not just in the records he’s released or the stages he’s graced; it’s in the lasting impact he continues to have on the culture of hip-hop, ensuring his place as a perpetual force in the music industry.