“Don’t Disturb This Groove” by Steady B

On January 2, 1996, three men attempted to rob a bank in Philadelphia. During the botched heist, Police Officer and single mother of two Lauretha Vaird was shot and killed. An investigation followed, revealing that one of the greatest tragedies in Philadelphia law enforcement history was perpetrated by two of Philly’s once promising Rap stars Cool C and Steady B.

Like many fans of the Philly Rap scene as well as Steady B’s early singles and first two albums, I too was shocked and saddened by the news. I still can’t wrap my head around the decision they made, especially for two people who, along with classmate Will Smith, rose above troubled surroundings to find major label record deals and the world in their hands.
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The horrific and senseless crime aside, “Don’t Disturb This Groove” is still one of my all-time favorite Hip-Hop singles, skillfully sampling last week’s featured song “Impeach the President” by the Honey Drippers, and “God Made Me Funky” by Herbie Hancock’s jazz-fusion outfit The Headhunters. Released in 1987 on the now legendary Pop Art / Jive records as the B side to the “What’s My Name” 12", this song was upbeat, driving, and funky as hell.