What happened to gentle criminal?

What Happened to Gentle Criminal?

Gentle Criminal, also known as Kansai Phil, is a Japanese music producer and composer, best known for his work as the leader of the hip-hop group THA BLUE HERB. In this article, we will delve into the story of Gentle Criminal, exploring what led to his departure from THA BLUE HERB and his subsequent solo career.

Early Life and Career

Born in 1978 in Osaka, Japan, Gentle Criminal began his music career in the 1990s as a member of the hip-hop group THA BLUE HERB. The group gained popularity in Japan’s underground hip-hop scene, with Gentle Criminal’s unique blend of jazz, funk, and soul influences setting him apart from other producers of the time.

Rise to Fame with THA BLUE HERB

THA BLUE HERB released their debut album in 1998, which received critical acclaim and established the group as a force to be reckoned with in Japan’s hip-hop scene. Over the next decade, the group released several successful albums, with Gentle Criminal’s production style becoming a defining characteristic of their sound.

Departure from THA BLUE HERB

In 2007, Gentle Criminal announced his departure from THA BLUE HERB, citing creative differences and a desire to pursue a solo career. This decision came as a shock to fans, who had grown accustomed to Gentle Criminal’s role as the group’s lead producer and driving force.

Solo Career

Following his departure from THA BLUE HERB, Gentle Criminal released his debut solo album, "Bossa Nova", in 2008. The album marked a significant shift in his style, with a greater emphasis on Bossa Nova and Latin music influences.

Gentle Criminal’s solo career continued to flourish, with subsequent albums "Gently" (2010) and "Lost" (2012) receiving critical acclaim and further cementing his reputation as a versatile and innovative producer.

Influence on Japanese Hip-Hop

Gentle Criminal’s departure from THA BLUE HERB and subsequent solo career have had a lasting impact on Japanese hip-hop. His influence can be seen in the work of many other producers and rappers, who have incorporated elements of jazz, funk, and soul into their own music.

What Happened to Gentle Criminal?

So, what happened to Gentle Criminal? In an interview with Japan’s Rolling Stone magazine, Gentle Criminal revealed that he had become disillusioned with the hip-hop scene in Japan, feeling that it had become too commercialized and lacked the creativity and passion that had driven him to make music in the first place.

"I just felt like I was getting stuck in a rut," Gentle Criminal said. "I was making the same music over and over again, and I just didn’t feel like I was growing as an artist."

Gentle Criminal’s departure from THA BLUE HERB and his subsequent solo career have allowed him to explore new sounds and styles, free from the commercial pressures and creative constraints that can come with being part of a group.

Conclusion

Gentle Criminal’s story is a testament to the power of creativity and innovation in music. Despite his departure from THA BLUE HERB, Gentle Criminal has continued to thrive as a solo artist, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in Japanese hip-hop.

From his early days as the leader of THA BLUE HERB to his current status as a respected solo artist, Gentle Criminal has left an indelible mark on Japan’s hip-hop scene. His legacy continues to inspire and influence a new generation of producers and rappers, ensuring that his music will be enjoyed for years to come.