Description

The Maximum Definitive / Soul Dwellas – Jungle Man (7″) [Funky Dividends FDR7007]

The Maximum Definitive, a groundbreaking Canadian hip-hop collective, emerged from the vibrant cultural scene of Edmonton, Alberta, in the late 1980s. Originally comprising four dancers, a singer, a DJ, and three rappers, the group underwent several transformations over the years, solidifying its core members as Darp Malone, Roger “Mystic” Mooking, and David “Click” Cox.

As The Maximum Definitive honed their craft, they swiftly ascended to the upper echelons of the Alberta music scene in the early ’90s. Their dynamic performances in Calgary and Edmonton, including opening for renowned acts like Fresh Prince, Maestro Fresh Wes, Kish, Dream Warriors, and Ice-T, earned them acclaim and a dedicated fan base.

The pinnacle of their success came with the release of the iconic video “Jungle Man,” a track that not only catapulted them into the spotlight but also earned them a MuchMusic Video Award for Best Rap Video in 1993 and garnered a Juno Award nomination for Best Rap Recording in 1993. The music video’s heavy rotation on MuchMusic played a pivotal role in solidifying The Maximum Definitive’s impact on the Canadian hip-hop scene.

In a groundbreaking move, The Maximum Definitive became one of the first rap groups to host MuchMusic’s RapCity with a full band, featuring Bass is Base. This significant milestone showcased their versatility and underscored their role as trailblazers in the Canadian hip-hop landscape. The group’s journey took an unexpected turn in 1994 when they decided to part ways. Roger “Mystic” Mooking transitioned into the band Bass is Base, contributing to their success with the hit song “Funkmobile”, which clinched a Juno Award in 1995.

Roger Mooking, beyond his musical pursuits, evolved into a world-renowned chef, restaurateur and television personality. His culinary expertise and engaging presence found a home on various programs on the Cooking Channel and Food Network Canada. His creative prowess bridged the worlds of music and culinary arts, evident in his unique fusion showcased in cooking shows and book releases. Today, Roger Mooking stands as a multifaceted talent, epitomizing the seamless integration of his passions and leaving an indelible mark on both the music and
culinary landscapes.

Meanwhile, Darp Malone and David Click Cox forged ahead with their musical endeavors. The duo founded the Soul Dwellas and later established the independent record label, Classic Entertainment. Following their achievements with Soul Dwellas and Classic Entertainment, David Click Cox underwent a noteworthy transformation, immersing himself in the corporate side of the music industry. Over the years that ensued, Cox made significant contributions to major record labels, solidifying his position as a key player in the dynamic landscape of the music business.  Simultaneously, Darp Malone continued to evolve his musical journey, engaging in collaborations with various artists and co-founding the group HERO alongside rapper E-Dot.

The legacy of The Maximum Definitive lives on through the diverse and successful paths forged by its members. Each contributor, whether in music, culinary arts, or corporate endeavors, has left their mark on their respective fields, showcasing the enduring impact of a group that once stood at the forefront of Canadian hip-hop. The group’s influence extended beyond their musical achievements as they performed tirelessly across Canada, laying the foundation for hip-hop in the country. This was especially pivotal for groups originating from outside major Hip-hop centers like Toronto. The Maximum Definitive’s impact resonates as a testament to their pioneering spirit, breaking new ground and leaving an indelible mark on the history of Canadian hip-hop.