Brockhampton, originally known as AliveSinceForever, is an influential American hip hop collective that was formed in 2010 in San Marcos, Texas. Led by the creative vision of Kevin Abstract, the group came together through the online music discussion forum KanyeToThe, where they found like-minded individuals who shared their passion for creating innovative and boundary-pushing music. Describing themselves as a "boy band," Brockhampton sought to redefine the conventional understanding of the term.
The collective's dynamic diversity, encompassing members of various ethnicities, sexual orientations, and backgrounds, is a cornerstone of their artistic identity. They have been recognized for their unique blend of styles, tackling a wide range of themes and incorporating elements of pop, rap, R&B, and alternative music into their sound. Complex magazine aptly describes them as "gay, black, white, DIY, ambitious, all-inclusive, and would-be pop stars."
Brockhampton's discography includes several significant releases. They made their debut in 2016 with the mixtape "All-American Trash." Their breakthrough came with the "Saturation" trilogy, consisting of "Saturation," "Saturation II," and "Saturation III," which were released throughout 2017. These albums showcased the group's raw talent, catchy hooks, and introspective lyrics, capturing the attention of both critics and fans alike.
In 2018, Brockhampton signed a record deal with RCA Records, marking a major milestone in their career. They released their fourth studio album, "Iridescence," in the same year, which debuted at the top spot on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying their growing popularity and commercial success.
Continuing their musical journey, Brockhampton released their fifth album, "Ginger," in 2019. This highly anticipated project was preceded by several singles and music videos that showcased the group's evolving sound and introspective storytelling.
In April 2021, they unveiled their sixth studio album, "Roadrunner: New Light, New Machine," further demonstrating their ability to experiment with different genres and push creative boundaries.
However, in January 2022, the collective announced an indefinite hiatus following their scheduled appearance at the Coachella Festival in April. Despite this break, they surprised fans by releasing their seventh album, "The Family," on November 17, 2022. Additionally, they unexpectedly dropped another album, "TM," the following day, showcasing their ongoing dedication to their craft and their ability to captivate audiences with their unique artistic vision.
Brockhampton's impact extends beyond their music. The collective consists of not only talented vocalists and producers but also includes individuals with expertise in graphic design, photography, web design, and management. This multidisciplinary approach to their artistic endeavors allows them to create a cohesive and visually striking aesthetic that complements their music.
With their boundary-pushing artistry, thought-provoking lyrics, and commitment to inclusivity, Brockhampton has become a driving force in the contemporary music landscape. They have garnered a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim, solidifying their position as one of the most influential and innovative collectives of their generation. As they continue to evolve and experiment with their sound, their impact on the music industry is sure to endure for years to come.