When Juvenile’s voice erupted with “Cash Money Records takin’ over for the 99 and the 2000s” at the beginning of “Back That Azz Up,” it wasn’t just an intro; it was a declaration. This iconic track, celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2019, became more than just a song – it was an anthem signaling the undisputed arrival of Cash Money Records into the mainstream. But what year did Cash Money truly take over the music scene and solidify their place in hip-hop history?
Cash Money Records, founded by brothers Bryan “Birdman” Williams and Ronald “Slim” Williams, had been building momentum throughout the late 1990s. However, the period from 1999 to the early 2000s marked their undeniable apex. This era saw the label, home to artists like Lil Wayne, Juvenile, and the Hot Boys, unleash a wave of hits that dominated radio airwaves and MTV. Their distinct sound, characterized by Mannie Fresh’s production and the artists’ signature flows, became synonymous with the late 90s and early 2000s hip-hop landscape.
“Back That Azz Up,” released in 1999, served as a pivotal moment in this takeover. The infectious violin sample and Juvenile’s charismatic delivery made it a cultural phenomenon. It wasn’t just a regional hit in New Orleans; it transcended geographical boundaries, becoming a staple at parties and clubs nationwide. This song, alongside other Cash Money hits, defined the sound of an era and cemented 1999 and the years following as the period when Cash Money Records truly took over the hip-hop industry, influencing music and pop culture for years to come.
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