clipping. Vinyl Records & Discography

Who is clipping.? A Brief Career Overview

Welcome to the captivating world of clipping., an innovative American experimental hip-hop group from Los Angeles, California, made up of the dynamic rapper Daveed Diggs and the creative producers William Hutson and Jonathan Snipes. Since their formation in 2009, clipping. has redefined the boundaries of hip-hop with an exhilarating blend of escape room, industrial hip hop, and experimental hip hop.

What sets clipping. apart is their unique sonic palette, which seamlessly combines the intensity of rap with sample-based soundscapes that often draw upon horror and science fiction themes. Their profound impact can be seen through their groundbreaking achievements, such as their acclaimed albums There Existed an Addiction to Blood and Visions of Bodies Being Burned, which not only garnered critical acclaim but also resonated deeply with vinyl collectors and enthusiasts. Their vinyl releases are coveted for their stunning artwork and pressing quality, becoming essential additions for any serious vinyl aficionado. With their relentless creativity and passion for innovation, clipping. continues to inspire awe in music lovers and stands at the forefront of the evolving hip-hop landscape.

clipping.'s Early Life and Background

Tracing back to their origins, we delve into the early life of clipping.. The two key figures, Daveed Diggs and William Hutson, first crossed paths in grade school, where their friendship blossomed amid the vibrant backdrop of Los Angeles. While Diggs grew up in a multicultural environment that celebrated diverse artistic expressions, Hutson found a musical haven in his college years, sharing a room with Snipes and merging their creative ideas. This unique blend of backgrounds--encompassing ethnically rich communities and artistic pursuits--has profoundly shaped their worldview and connection to music.

During their childhood, Diggs was immersed in a rich tapestry of genres, from classic rock to hip-hop, often fueled by the sounds lingering in his home. As they explored their musical interests, the seeds of their passion for vinyl records began to take root. Their early experiences in music, laced with experimentation and excitement, highlight a journey that would eventually lead them into the experimental realms of hip-hop.

The Musical Influences That Shaped clipping.'s Sound

The captivating sound of clipping. is a collage of influences from various musical icons and genres. Among their inspirations are revered pioneers such as Dr. Dre and Public Enemy, who pushed the boundaries of hip-hop production through innovative techniques and socially conscious lyrics. The group has not only embraced these influences but also transformed them through their unique lens. The combination of horror narratives within their lyrics and the avant-garde production techniques mirrors the groundbreaking work of luminaries like Three 6 Mafia and Shabazz Palaces.

During their formative years, clipping. found themselves captivated by influential vinyl albums, appreciating the artistry of records not just as a medium but as an experience. These vinyl gems shaped their sound and ethos, contributing to the distinctive narratives that characterize their discography.

How clipping. Entered the Music Industry

Every great journey has its beginnings, and for clipping., it commenced in 2009 as a remix project. With Hutson and Snipes experimenting with a cappellas to create power electronics and noise remixes, the duo laid the groundwork for a new musical venture. When Diggs joined in 2010, he added his rap verses to their distinctive sound, leading to the self-release of their debut mixtape, midcity, in 2013. Despite minimal promotional effort, the mixtape resonated widely and propelled them into the spotlight, allowing them to sign with Sub Pop Records within months.

The year 2014 marked their official debut with the album CLPPNG, whose experimental nature challenged mainstream hip-hop conventions and piqued the interest of collectors. Navigating the production of their music on vinyl posed initial challenges, but their determination led them to establish key partnerships, resulting in limited and special vinyl releases over time. This tenacity not only helped them refine their sound but also laid the groundwork for their subsequent critical and commercial successes.

clipping.'s Breakthrough and Rise to Fame

The meteoric rise of clipping. can be traced back to their album There Existed an Addiction to Blood, released on October 18, 2019. This concept album, juxtaposing horror themes with clever lyrical storytelling, received widespread acclaim, particularly for its release on vinyl. Critics marveled at the album's profound storytelling and innovative sound, elevating it to become a key milestone in their career. The album's success catapulted them into the limelight, leading to features in notable media outlets and paving the way for a larger fanbase.

As the buzz surrounding them grew, clipping. found themselves performing at high-profile festivals and venues, their powerful live shows leaving an indelible mark on audiences. Their continued evolution and captivating artistry solidified their status within the musical landscape, capturing the hearts of vinyl collectors and hip-hop enthusiasts alike.

How Personal Life Shaped clipping.'s Music

The personal lives of clipping. members have profoundly impacted their music, with each artist bringing individual experiences, struggles, and victories to the creative process. Diggs, in particular, has openly addressed the societal issues that inform his lyrics, including themes of race and identity. These intimate narratives resonate with listeners, depicting the complexities of the human experience. The raw authenticity present in their tracks often serves as a reflection of their personal beliefs and interactions.

Moreover, their commitment to social justice and activism has shaped both their public image and their artistry. By utilizing their platform to address pressing issues and collaborating with philanthropic organizations, clipping. has positioned themselves as voices of change within the industry. This dedication is mirrored in their lyrics and themes, resulting in a body of work that transcends mere entertainment and becomes a catalyst for awareness.