The group Ghetto Mafia established many of the trends
coming out of the true roots of the, “Dirty
South”, genre of music in the mid, 90’s. Originally
from Decatur, GA, Ghetto Mafia members, Wicked and
Nino, spent most of their youth surrounded by up and
coming stars such as actor/comedian, Chris Tucker and
the R&B group known as Silk. Ghetto Mafia emerged into
the music industry and propelled their talents by
collaborating with major artists such as MC Breed and
Jazzy Phe. Hip Hop legend, MC Breed is the most
notable influence that taught this duo the hip-hop
game.
The group scored a two-album deal in 1994 with Leroy Mc
Math and Power Records. Ghetto Mafia released their
first album, entitled “Draw the Line,” with the hit
single, “Everyday Thing in Tha Hood.” It featured MC
Breed, and its success led to their second release, “Full
Blooded Niggas,” which dropped in 1995. Derrick “Big D”
Handspike, CEO of Down South Entertainment, originally
released the album, “Straight from the Dec,” selling
over 50,000 units independently.
With this success, they caught
the attention of Fully Loaded Records Executive, Ernie
Singleton and received a distribution deal for 2 albums
through Fully Loaded/Red in 1996. Ghetto Mafia
released their third album, “Straight From the Dec” and
accelerated their craft of music to the next level by
receiving a gold record from the hit single,” Straight
From the Dec.” In 1998 the fourth album “On Da Grind” was
released and along with it came another hit single, “In
Decatur!”
