"Released on September 5, 1989, 'Stone Cold Rhymin’' contains 13 songs and zero curse words. The sepia-toned album cover depicts Young in profile, cradling an old broadcast microphone and looking more like a dapper doo-wopper than a hip-hop hero. In terms of playing it straight, the songs are shocking in their innocence. At the 1990 Grammy Awards, “Bust A Move” won for Best Rap Performance. It was clear that hip-hop wasn’t going to back the NY-or-nothing mentality, and New York’s ire was real. Grumpy Village Voice don Robert Christgau deigned to give 'Stone Cold Rhymin’' a “B+” in his letter-grade consumer guide. “His polysyllables and quick lips aren't as fresh as he thinks they are,” sniffed Christgau. Au contraire: 'Stone Cold Rhymin’' still sounds fresh after all these years."
HipHop
VOL № RH054 — February 2022
Stone Cold Rhymin'
Young M.C.
Stone Cold Rhymin’ is the landmark debut of Young MC, and the VMP Hip-Hop Record of the Month for February 2022. It’s here on 180g “Stone Gold & Red” vinyl, with lacquers cut by Cicely Balston at Alchemy Mastering at AIR.
