By Tiffany Harte
Founded in 1985, Atlanta-based Ichiban Records played a pivotal role in shaping Southern hip-hop, nurturing iconic artists, and fostering a distinctive sound.
The label, led by visionary John Abbey, was a crucible for talent like MC Shy-D and Kilo. Despite challenges, including a risky partnership with EMI and internal issues, Ichiban’s impact on the music industry, especially in nurturing local talent and promoting diversity, is undeniable. The story is a compelling narrative of ambition, innovation and the complexities of the music business.
They Were No. 1: The Ichiban Records Story
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In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Atlanta emerged as a hip-hop powerhouse, with Ichiban Records playing a crucial role in its rise. The label provided a platform for local artists like MC Shy-D and Kilo Ali, who were instrumental in shaping Atlanta’s distinctive sound.