History was made in Toronto as legendary rap duo EPMD joined an all-star lineup of hip-hop icons for Russell Peters’ Old School Mixtape Live, a celebration of classic beats, lyrical mastery, and hip-hop heritage documented by WorldWide Entertainment TV.

Held in collaboration with DJ Starting From Scratch, the free concert brought together a powerhouse roster including Flavor Flav, Big Daddy Kane, Nice & Smooth, Crystal Waters, and Renée Neufville of Zhané, creating a night that reminded fans everywhere that real hip-hop never dies — it just gets louder.

EPMD: Pioneers of Funk-Fueled Rap

Formed in Brentwood, Long Island in the late 1980s, EPMD — short for Erick and Parrish Making Dollars — consists of rappers Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith. The duo helped define the Golden Era of Hip-Hop with their laid-back delivery, funky samples, and business-minded hustle that inspired an entire generation of MCs.

Their debut album, Strictly Business (1988), became an instant classic, propelled by the title track’s funky groove and their signature “slow flow” cadence. It was followed by a string of influential records — Unfinished Business (1989), Business As Usual (1990), and Business Never Personal (1992) — that cemented their reputation as innovators who seamlessly blended funk rhythms with raw lyricism.

EPMD’s impact extended beyond music — they helped launch the careers of Redman, Das EFX, and other artists from their Hit Squad collective. With timeless hits like “Crossover,” “You Gots to Chill,” and “Rampage,” EPMD’s sound continues to resonate with hip-hop purists and new listeners alike.

A Toronto Stage Fit for Legends

At Russell Peters’ Old School Mixtape Live, EPMD brought that same classic energy to Toronto’s vibrant stage. Backed by DJ Starting From Scratch, the duo tore through their catalog, performing fan favorites like “So Wat Cha Sayin’” and “Crossover.”

Flavor Flav ignited the crowd with his trademark charisma, Big Daddy Kane reminded fans why he remains one of rap’s greatest performers, and Nice & Smooth delivered a set that perfectly captured the golden-age spirit. Crystal Waters brought her timeless club hits like “Gypsy Woman (She’s Homeless),” while Renée Neufville of Zhané added soulful R&B energy to the mix.

Russell Peters — himself a lifelong hip-hop head — curated the night as a love letter to the genre that shaped his life. His commitment to authenticity shone through, uniting artists and fans from multiple generations for one unforgettable show.

“Toronto showed up for the culture,” said one attendee. “This wasn’t just nostalgia — it was a reminder that hip-hop’s heart still beats strong.”

Why Old School Still Matters

Old School Mixtape Live wasn’t just a concert — it was a statement. In an age of algorithm-driven playlists and viral trends, events like these celebrate craftsmanship, storytelling, and live performance — the elements that built hip-hop from the ground up.

EPMD’s set in particular underscored their influence: their blend of funk, business savvy, and smooth delivery helped pave the way for the very artists who dominate today’s charts. For fans in attendance, the night was both a time capsule and a living legacy.

A Celebration of Culture and Unity

The energy in Toronto was electric — fans from across generations packed the venue to witness living legends share one stage. Whether you grew up on vinyl, cassettes, or streaming, the event proved that hip-hop’s foundation remains unshakable.

From Public Enemy energy to EPMD’s crossover genius, Russell Peters’ Old School Mixtape Live showed that while trends change, real culture never fades — it evolves.