In 1989, Kwamé Rocked Polka Dots With Style & Rhythm (Video)

BY MJ SAVINO • AUGUST 2, 2018

Back in 1989, just 16 years old and just at the peak of his adolescence, Kwamé released his debut album titled Kwamé The Boy Genius Featuring A New Beginning. The new Atlantic Records artist found himself a hit on the Rap and R&B Charts with the aptly-titled second single, “The Rhythm.”

During that celebrated period in Hip-Hop, teenagers were tapped into Kwamé not only for his playful, lyrical flow, but also for his bold sense of style. From the same part of Queens as Kool G Rap and The Beatnuts, Kwamé Holland sported a full polka dot suit in “The Rhythm” visual. The record was about a teenager crushing on a girl with overindulgent brothers. Chased on stage with no corners to cut and no time to devise a plan, the microphone became the sole solution. He adjusted the polka dots, relied on his storytelling skills, and rhymed for his beauty letting her know who Kwamé was; “a mellow cool Brother.”

That now memorable polka dot suit (also prominently featured in magazine layouts and single/album artwork) started a new fashion trend for Hip-Hop fans, and became part of the MC/producer’s trademark. In fact, during one of his many shows, the audience was dressed in all polka dots mirroring the artist and his innovative fad. Kwamé continued to create music and released three more albums after the phenomenon surrounding Kwamé the Boy Genius Featuring A New Beginning.

Read the rest at AMBROSIA FOR HEADS

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