The Educational Backgrounds of UTFO Members: Pioneers of Hip-Hop
UTFO (Untouchable Force Organization) was a pioneering hip-hop group from Brooklyn, New York City, that significantly impacted the genre's early commercial success. The group, formed in the early 1980s, consisted of Kangol Kid, Educated Rapper (EMD), Doctor Ice, and Mix Master Ice. While widely known for their hit song "Roxanne, Roxanne," the educational backgrounds and achievements of its members, particularly Educated Rapper, are noteworthy.
UTFO's Formation and Rise to Fame
Before UTFO, Kangol Kid and Doctor Ice were breakdancers known as the Keystone Dancers, even touring with Whodini. They later formed UTFO, signing with Select Records in 1984. Their debut album was produced by Full Force, with Gary Pozner contributing to the sound and beats.
UTFO gained mainstream exposure with appearances on shows like "The Phil Donahue Show" in 1984, where they showcased breakdancing to a wider audience. Kangol Kid's signature Kangol hats became a defining accessory in 1980s hip-hop, leading to an endorsement deal with the brand.
"Roxanne, Roxanne" and the "Roxanne Wars"
The group's most famous single, "Roxanne, Roxanne," released in 1984, became a hip-hop classic. The song, about the members of UTFO trying to gain the affections of a fly girl named Roxanne, reached No. 10 on Billboard’s R&B and Hip-Hop chart. The rappers told stories of Roxanne shunning them. “Roxanne, Roxanne, I wanna be your man,” went the chorus.
The song's popularity sparked the "Roxanne Wars," with numerous response records, the most notable being Roxanne Shanté's "Roxanne's Revenge." This marked one of hip-hop's first rap beefs. UTFO's Kangol Kid reflected on this period, stating, "When you think of hip hop, hip hop is a sport… a lot of breakdance is battle, rap is battle, DJs battle, but we were the first to battle on wax."
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The Educated Rapper: Jeffrey Campbell's Academic Achievements
Jeffrey Campbell, known as the Educated Rapper (EMD), stood out for his commitment to education and his impressive vocabulary, which he flaunted in his rhymes. EMD had the most technically sharp verse and stole the show. “Educated Rapper’s verse on “Roxxane” is the earliest memory I have of being amazed by the technical aspect of a rhyme scheme.
Campbell's dedication to education culminated in him graduating as the Valedictorian of the College of New Rochelle in 2009, earning a Baccalaureate in Communications Magna Cum Laude. This achievement underscored his belief in the importance of education, setting him apart in the hip-hop community.
Kangol Kid: From Breakdancing to Hip-Hop Icon
Kangol Kid, born Shaun Shiller Fequiere, was a Haitian American raised in Brooklyn. Before rapping, he and Doctor Ice were B-Boys, performing as the Keystone Dancers and touring with Whodini. His Kangol hats became synonymous with his image, leading to a lifetime sponsorship from the company.
Kangol Kid's influence extended beyond music. One of his Kangol hats is part of the collection at the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture. In his later years, he advocated for cancer screenings, sharing his own battle with colorectal cancer.
Doctor Ice and Mix Master Ice: Completing the UTFO Picture
Doctor Ice (Fred Reeves) and Mix Master Ice (Maurice Bailey) were integral to UTFO's success. Doctor Ice, like Kangol Kid, started as a breakdancer before transitioning to hip-hop. Mix Master Ice's DJ skills added another layer to the group's performances.
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UTFO's Legacy and Impact
UTFO's contribution to hip-hop extends beyond their hit song. They were among the first to bring breakdancing to a mainstream audience and were pioneers in rap battles on wax. The group's innovative approach to music and performance helped shape the genre's early years.
The deaths of Educated Rapper in 2017 and Kangol Kid in 2021 marked the end of an era for UTFO. However, their music and legacy continue to inspire and influence artists today. Chuck D of Public Enemy acknowledged Educated Rapper's role in emphasizing education in hip-hop.
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