To celebrate 50 years of hip-hop this year, let’s take a trip down memory lane with Dipset. It’s only fitting that Respect My Region highlights some of the industry’s trendsetters before the year ends.
Over 25 Years of Hip-Hop with Dipset
Background History
Around 26 years ago in Harlem, NY, a group of childhood friends formed a collective hip-hop group called The Diplomats aka Dipset. In 1997, the group consisted of Cam’ron, Jim Jones, and Freekey Zekey. Juelz Santana joined in 1999, just two years later.
Dipset at the Grammy Awards in 2003 | Sourced from VIBE.com
The Diplomats emerged when the music industry’s ideas of hip-hop began to switch to commercial audiences. By the late 1990s and early 2000s, hip-hop music became the top-selling music genre with mainstream success. This success would soon follow Dipset into becoming one of the many game-changers in hip-hop.
By 2001, the group was offered a deal from Roc-A-Fella Records following the sign-on of group member Cam’ron. The group released its debut album, Diplomatic Immunity, in 2003. With their most famous hit, Dipset Anthem.
Diplomatic Immunity
Soon, Diplomatic Immunity 2 was released in 2004, with songs like “I Wanna Be Your Lady,” as well as “S.A.N.T.A.N.A.“ and “Crunk Muzik.” These projects allowed Dipset to make a name for themself and were the start of their cultural impact.
The group also faced disagreements, and in 2007 all individuals formed their groups. From 2010 to 2015, the group worked through differences. Leading into 2021, they were allowed to perform their hits on Verzuz against another NYC legend group, The Lox.
Dipset Through Music and Fashion
The group was able to blend their individuality to become one of hip-hop’s trailblazing rap groups in history. With their edgy street fashion and NYC grit, it is clear why they can be known as trendsetters in the rap game.
- “Oh Boy” featuring -Juelz Santana
- “Dipsey Anthem” – Cam’Ron ft Juelz Santana
- “Crunk Muzik“
- “We Stay Fly”- Jim Jones
- “I Really Mean It”
Even with their lyrical and catchy musical abilities, Dipset displayed their style with iconic looks. They blended early 2000s New York City fashion and personal individuals to create their unique brand. The Diplomats even effortlessly brought Harlem streetwear to modern media.
From Juelz Santana’s matching bandanas to Jim Jones’s braids and Harlem swag to Cam’ron’s infamous pink fur jacket that is recreated almost every Halloween, you cannot deny Dipset’s talent, style, and iconic impact on the culture.
Cam’ron’s Infamous Outfit
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