Fun Lovin Criminals: The New York Hip-Hop Rock Hybrid

Fun Lovin Criminals are an American alternative band renowned for their unique fusion of hip-hop, rock, and lounge-jazz. Formed in New York City in the early 1990s, the trio achieved international success with their 1996 debut album Come Find Yourself, which was certified platinum in the United Kingdom.

Early career

The band formed in 1993, with the core lineup solidifying as Huey Morgan (vocals, guitar), Fast (Brian Leiser, bass, keys), and Steve Borgovini (drums). Their sound was a direct product of their New York environment, blending gritty street narratives with samples, funk grooves, and bluesy guitar. They built a local following before signing a deal with EMI's Capitol Records imprint in the UK.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough came in 1996 with the release of their debut album, Come Find Yourself. Driven by the sleeper hit single Scooby Snacks, which cleverly sampled dialogue from Quentin Tarantino films, the album resonated strongly with British and European audiences. It spent over a year on the UK Albums Chart, eventually earning a platinum certification.

Key tracks

Scooby Snacks — This single became their signature track, defining their cinematic, sample-heavy style and breaking them into the mainstream.

The Fun Lovin' Criminal — The smooth, lounge-rap opener from their debut album perfectly established the band's charismatic, noir-inspired persona.

King of New York — A later single that encapsulates their love for their hometown, blending a laid-back funk rhythm with Huey's distinctive vocal delivery.

Love Unlimited — A cover of the Barry White classic, showcasing their ability to reinterpret soul and R&B through their own unique filter.

Following their debut success, they released 100% Colombian in 1998, which debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart and went gold. Subsequent albums like Mimosa and Welcome to Poppy's explored soul, funk, and electronic influences while maintaining their core sound. The band has seen several drummer changes over the years but Huey and Fast remained the creative constants until Fast's departure in 2020.

Their music finds common ground with other genre-blending acts. Listeners of Fun Lovin Criminals often enjoy Beastie Boys for their similar fusion of hip-hop and rock energy. The smooth, laid-back grooves connect with fans of Everlast and his blend of blues and rap. The New York storytelling vibe is also shared by Urban Dance Squad, another pioneering alternative rap-rock group.

The band's distinctive catalog remains a staple on radio stations that celebrate eclectic rock. Their hits are frequently featured on classic rock FM stations, alternative rock radio stations, and online rock radio streams that appreciate 90s alternative music with a funky edge.

You can hear the music of Fun Lovin Criminals on the radio stations featured here on onairium.com. Tune in to discover their unique blend of hip-hop and rock on our curated selection of independent music radio stations.