React

"React" by Erick Sermon Featuring Redman: A Funky Hip-Hop Reunion of Two Legends

Step into the world of early-2000s hip-hop, a moment when the genre was riding high and veteran artists were proving they still had plenty to offer. Into that climate arrived this funky, energetic single, a collaboration between two longtime friends and frequent collaborators with deep roots in the genre. Built on a distinctive sample and an irresistible groove, the song brought together two respected figures for a track that became one of the more memorable hip-hop hits of its year.

A Producer and Rapper

Erick Sermon was a respected veteran of hip-hop, both as a producer and a rapper, who had first risen to prominence as one half of the influential duo EPMD in the late 1980s and early 1990s. By 2002 he had established himself as a solo artist and a sought-after producer with a distinctive, funk-influenced style. This song appeared on his solo work, continuing his long and respected career. Sermon's deep roots in the genre and his gift for funky, head-nodding production made him a beloved figure among hip-hop fans.

The Redman Connection

The track features Redman, the charismatic New Jersey rapper known for his energetic, humorous and skillful style. Redman and Erick Sermon were longtime friends and frequent collaborators, and their chemistry was a key part of the song's appeal. Redman brought his trademark energy and personality to the track, providing a dynamic, animated presence. The pairing of the two artists, with their established rapport and complementary styles, gave the song a sense of fun and authenticity that fans appreciated.

A Distinctive, Funky Sound

Musically the track is built on a distinctive, catchy sample and a funky, energetic groove that perfectly suits the two rappers' styles. The production reflects Erick Sermon's signature funk-influenced approach, creating an irresistible, head-nodding foundation. The arrangement gives both artists room to display their personalities and skills, with the infectious sample driving the whole track. It is a fun, energetic hip-hop song built on the kind of groove that gets heads nodding, a showcase of Sermon's production gifts.

A Strong Run on the Hot 100

On the Billboard Hot 100, the single performed well. It debuted on October 19, 2002, at number 79, and climbed steadily over the following weeks. It reached its peak of number 36 during the week of December 7, 2002, cracking the upper half of the chart, and showed real durability, logging 16 weeks on the chart. That solid run reflected the song's broad appeal and its success on both hip-hop and pop radio. Cracking the top forty was a strong showing for the veteran collaboration.

A Memorable Collaboration

Looking back, this song stands as one of the more memorable hip-hop hits of its year and a fine example of the chemistry between two longtime collaborators. Both Erick Sermon and Redman would continue their respected careers as enduring figures in the genre. The track has gathered roughly 11 million views on YouTube, keeping its funky energy accessible to fans. It captured a moment of two veterans delivering a fun, skillful collaboration that resonated with audiences and reminded everyone of their enduring talent.

A Funky Favorite

For fans of early-2000s hip-hop and the funky, sample-driven sound, this song remains a rewarding listen, a showcase of two respected artists having fun together. It captures the chemistry and skill that made the collaboration so enjoyable. The track stands as a testament to the staying power of two veterans who had been shaping the genre for years, proof that experience and rapport could still produce an irresistible hit that connected with a wide audience. Put it on, and you can feel the irresistible, head-nodding groove of two hip-hop veterans at the top of their game.

"React" — Erick Sermon Featuring Redman's singular moment on the 2000s charts.