Digable Planets

Digable Planets is an American alternative hip hop group based in New York City. The group, consisting of Craig Irving, Ishmael Butler, and Mary Ann Viera, is known for their fusion of jazz and hip hop. Formed in the early 90s, Digable Planets quickly gained attention with their unique sound and unorthodox appearance. Their albums Reachin’ (A New Refutation Of Time And Space) and Blowout Comb redefined hip-hop and set standards for future soul poets and innovative producers. Although the group disbanded in 1996, they recently reunited to play live shows and are working on a new album.

In the early days of Digable Planets, members Butterfly (Ishmael Butler), Doodlebug (Craig Irving), and Ladybug (Mary Ann Vieira) lived together in Jersey City before moving to Brooklyn's black neighborhoods. They scraped by while rapping and working odd jobs until winning a record contract in 1992. Their Grammy-winning hit "Rebirth Of Slick (Cool Like Dat)" showcased their ability to connect with audiences tired of aggressive gangsta rap.

Butterfly spent his childhood in Seattle but moved around the country with his father who was a history professor. He was exposed to an extensive jazz collection which influenced his musical taste along with rap. Doodlebug grew up in Philadelphia where he became a deejay at Howard University's radio station. He also