On this date 35 years ago, the iconic Bronx Hip Hop duo Nice & Smooth released their sophomore album, Ain’t A Damn Thing Changed, through Rush Associated Labels/Columbia Records. At a time when the landscape of Hip Hop was shifting rapidly, the duo managed to carve out a unique space that balanced technical skill with infectious personality.
By 1991, the genre was evolving. While groups like Naughty By Nature were bringing new anthems to the forefront and the New York scene was leaning into an increasingly hardcore aesthetic, Greg Nice and Smooth B remained steadfast in their own lane. Ain’t A Damn Thing Changed served as a follow-up to their 1989 self-titled debut, further establishing the pair as a distinct force in an era where many MCs were hesitant to show a lighter side.
The chemistry between the two was undeniable. Greg Nice provided the high-octane energy, humor, and signature chants, while Smooth B offered a laid-back, melodic flow that grounded the tracks. This dynamic was perfectly captured on the hit “Hip Hop Junkies,” a celebratory record that remains a staple of their catalog. Perhaps even more significant was “Sometimes I Rhyme Slow,” which sampled Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car.” The track showcased their depth, as Smooth B utilized the familiar guitar melody to weave a poignant narrative about the struggles of drug addiction, proving the duo could handle serious subject matter with grace.
The album also featured standout cuts like “Cake & Eat It Too,” “How to Flow,” and “Sex, Sex, Sex,” all of which highlighted their ability to blend harmonizing with sharp lyricism. Beyond the studio, Nice & Smooth were renowned for their live performances. They carried on a tradition of the MC as a complete entertainer, ensuring that their stage presence was just as compelling as their recorded output.
This versatility granted them remarkable longevity. Their influence extended to collaborations with legends like Gang Starr, cementing their place in the pantheon of New York Hip Hop. Three and a half decades later, Ain’t A Damn Thing Changed stands as a testament to the personality and artistry that defined the early ’90s. We salute Greg Nice and Smooth B for delivering a classic that continues to resonate with fans today.
