Three 6 Mafia (formerly Triple 6 Mafia or Triple Six Mafia) is an Academy-Award winning American hip hop group originating from Memphis, Tennessee. Formed in 1991 by DJ Paul, Lord Infamous, and Juicy J, they shortly
... Three 6 Mafia (formerly Triple 6 Mafia or Triple Six Mafia) is an Academy-Award winning American hip hop group originating from Memphis, Tennessee. Formed in 1991 by DJ Paul, Lord Infamous, and Juicy J, they shortly thereafter recruited fellow Memphian rappers Koopsta Knicca, Gangsta Boo, Mr.Del and Crunchy Black. However Mr.Del became a christian and left the group in 2000. The group also frequently collaborates with Memphis gangsta rapper Project Pat (the brother of Juicy J). Their 2005 song, "It's Hard out Here for a Pimp", won Best Original Song at the 78th Academy Awards.
The group released their horrorcore debut underground album Smoked Out, Loced Out in 1994 through Prophet Entertainment, a record label they created but have since relinquished control over. Their musical style—which initially featured dark, menacing lo-fi beats with equally gritty lyrics—has since moved to a more mainstream sound. Nonetheless, they have cultivated a sizeable and diverse cult following that has only increased since their Oscar win. They have recently released their ninth studio album Last 2 Walk, which hit shelves June 24, 2008.
