Since 1991, Arrested Development (AD) has been a trailblazer in hip-hop, known for socially conscious lyrics and vibrant sound. Hits like “Mr. Wendal” and “People Everyday” tackled social issues, and their breakthrough song “Tennessee” gained national exposure through MTV, leading to Grammy wins for Best New Artist and Best Rap Single. AD’s Pan-African style, live band performances, and diverse lineup set them apart, while elder member Baba Oje brought wisdom to the group’s message of hope and unity.

After a brief hiatus, AD returned to release successful albums overseas and tour globally. Frontman Speech has openly criticized hip-hop’s shift toward commercialism, emphasizing the group’s dedication to authenticity. With recent projects like Standing At The Crossroads and SPLASH, AD continues to make music that champions consciousness and change.