MC Hammer Albums (8)
What The Critics Say
The former MC Hammer resurfaced with a new musical identity and rap approach on this 1994 album. Getting help from new-school producers and debuting a video on The Arsenio Hall Show, Hammer's sound was leaner, his rapping tougher and more fluid, and his subject matter harder and less humorous. The results seemed to have worked; Funky Headhunter peaked at number two on the R&B list, went gold, and remained in the Top 30 midway through the year. ~ Ron Wynn, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
With his third album, Too Legit to Quit, Hammer dropped the "MC" from his name, but didn't undergo any major changes musically. Indeed, Legit provided a heavy dose of the thing that made Please Hammer, Don't Hurt Em so successful: likeable, fun pop-rap that appealed to mainstream Top 40 audiences more than the hood. For a few years, Hammer almost seemed to be the Michael Jackson of rap. Although it fell short of Please Hammer's artistic and commercial success, Legit definitely had its share of inviting hits, including "This Is the Way We Roll" and the title song. While Hammer hasn't always been the most challenging artist in the world, the Oakland native has some noteworthy social commentary in "Living in a World Like This" and "Brothers Hang On" -- both of which are disturbing commentaries on the harsh realities of ghetto life. ~ Alex Henderson, All Music Guide
'Please Hammer, Don't Hurt 'Em'
Release Date 2/12/1990
Tracks 13
Label Capitol
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
MC Hammer's second album stands as the pinnacle of pop-rap crossover, with its hit singles "U Can't Touch This," "Have You Seen Her," and "Pray" forming its core. Hammer relied on pop choruses as much as hip-hop beats, which helped the album sell over ten million copies and stay on the top of the charts for 21 weeks. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
MC Hammer's debut effort established him as a hip-hop superstar, with energetic dance tracks under its pop-tinged choruses, highlighted by the single "Turn This Mutha Out." ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide
