Black Sheep (group)

Black Sheep was an American hip hop duo from Queens, New York City, composed of Andres "Dres" Titus and William "Mista Lawnge" McLean. They were part of the Native Tongues collective, which also included A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, Jungle Brothers, and Queen Latifah, known for their positive, socially conscious, and innovative approach to hip hop.

Black Sheep distinguished themselves within the Native Tongues through their more direct, sometimes controversial, lyrics and a slightly harder-edged sound compared to some of their contemporaries. They often incorporated jazz and funk samples into their music, creating a distinctive and recognizable style.

The duo released their debut album, A Wolf in Sheep's Clothing, in 1991, which is considered their most successful and critically acclaimed work. It featured the hit singles "Flavor of the Month" and "The Choice Is Yours (Revisited)." The album's success helped to solidify their place within the burgeoning alternative hip hop scene.

Following their initial success, Black Sheep faced internal tensions and challenges navigating the music industry. They released a second album, Non Fiction, in 1994, which, while showcasing their lyrical skills, did not achieve the same commercial success as their debut.

After the release of Non Fiction, the duo disbanded. Both Dres and Mista Lawnge pursued solo projects and ventures in the music industry. Dres continued to record music and perform, while Mista Lawnge focused on production and DJing.

Black Sheep's contribution to hip hop is remembered for their unique style, witty lyricism, and their ability to blend humor with social commentary. They remain an important part of the history of the Native Tongues collective and the alternative hip hop movement of the early 1990s. They have periodically reunited for performances and collaborations, reminding audiences of their enduring impact on the genre.