In 1983, they entered a rap contest at Radio City Music Hall and won first place (they weren't even sure if they would be able to get in the door because of their age!). The first place prize was a recording contract and not too long after that, the group would release their first single and then their self-titled album in 1984. One of the singles from the album, "Stick 'Em" was the first a cappella song in hip hop history. Instead of beats and instruments, Buff provided all of the background sound while Kool Rock and Mark Dee rapped. They also had major success with their first single from album, "Fat Boys," which stayed on the charts for weeks. Throughout the 80s, The Fat Boys would drop a number of albums and have plenty of success, especially after their role in the movie Krush Groove (along with a few other movie roles). However, after issues with management and the label, Mark Dee would leave the group (or be kicked out, depending upon how you look at it) and start his own solo career as both a producer and an artist. The other two members put out one album as a duo, but after that the group called it quits. Unfortunately, in December 1995, Buff Love went into cardiac arrest and passed away.

The groups legacy in hip hop has been cemented and is sure to live on. Mark Dee and Kool Rock teamed up to start the website www.originalfatboys.com and have actually been rumored to have a reality show coming out to find a new permanent member for the group. Regardless of what the future holds, nobody can deny the impact that The Fat Boys have had on the culture. So, to The Fat Boys we say...Respect Due.

What's you're favorite Fat Boys song? Album? Any general thoughts? Leave your comments and of course you can e-mail at straightouttahiphop@gmail.com. 

Peace. 

Sources: originalfatboys.com/index2.html, TV One's "Unsung: The Story of The Fat Boys"