05/27/2025
Loved kmd ....get the gas face
KMD was a Hip-Hop trio from Long Beach, New York, formed in 1988 by Zev Love X (MF DOOM) and DJ Subroc, alongside Onyx the Birthstone Kid. Their name stood for "Kausing Much Damage" or "A Positive Kause in a Much Damaged Society," embodying their goal to address social issues through music. Starting as a graffiti crew, they transitioned to Hip-Hop, gaining attention from MC Serch of 3rd Bass, which launched their career.
In 1991, KMD released their debut album, Mr. Hood, a creative mix of satire and social commentary. The album tackled racism and black empowerment with lyrics layered over innovative beats sampled from children’s TV shows. This bold approach set them apart, establishing their unique voice in the Hip-Hop scene.
Their second album, Black Bastards, recorded in 1993, shifted to a darker, more mature sound and sparked controversy. Before it released, DJ Subroc was killed in an accident and Onyx the Birthstone Kid left the group, leaving Zev Love X to finish the album alone. Elektra Records shelved it. (Though it later surfaced as a bootleg before its official 2000 release, selling over 75,000 copies and amassing 40 million streams.)
Elektra had also decided to drop them over the album’s content, Zev Love X stepped away from music until 1997, later reemerging as MF DOOM, and it was the end of KMD, defined by loss and unrealized potential.
Despite their short run, KMD’s legacy in Hip-Hop remains today. Their blend of conscious themes and groundbreaking production inspired countless artists, bridging generations. Zev Love X’s death in 2020 sent a shockwave through the Hip-Hop community, but KMD's music continues to resonate with fans and collectors.
This isn't their whole story, but I always suggest anyone who's a fan of the culture learn more for themselves.
