The Rise, Fall, and Resurgence of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony: What Really Happened to the Legendary 90s Hip-Hop Group?

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, one of the most influential hip-hop groups of the 90s, has had a career filled with massive success, personal struggles, and dramatic controversies.

From chart-topping hits to legal troubles and internal conflicts, their journey has been as turbulent as it has been groundbreaking. Let’s take a closer look at the highs and lows of this legendary group and find out where they stand today.

The Early Days: From Cleveland to Stardom

The group was formed in 1991 in Cleveland, Ohio, originally known as B.O.N.E. Enterprise. The original lineup consisted of Krayzie Bone, Layzie Bone, Bizzy Bone, and Wish Bone, later joined by Flesh-n-Bone.

Struggling to make a name for themselves, they hustled their way to Los Angeles, hoping to catch the attention of rapper and producer Eazy-E, the founder of Ruthless Records.

After months of persistence, they finally got their big break when Eazy-E gave them a chance to showcase their talent. Impressed by their rapid-fire delivery and harmonized rap style, he signed them to Ruthless Records and helped launch their first major EP, Creepin on ah Come Up, in 1994.

Their hit single “Thuggish Ruggish Bone” put them on the map, and their follow-up album, E. 1999 Eternal, cemented their legacy with the smash hit “Tha Crossroads”, a tribute to Eazy-E after his tragic passing from AIDS-related complications in 1995.

Success and Turmoil

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s unique melodic rap style set them apart from other groups of their era, earning them a Grammy Award and collaborations with some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., and Big Pun. Their influence extended beyond music, inspiring future artists with their fast-paced, chopper-style rhymes mixed with smooth harmonies.

However, as their fame grew, so did their problems. Internal conflicts, financial disputes, and legal issues began to plague the group. Bizzy Bone, one of the most charismatic members, became notorious for his unpredictable behavior.

His personal struggles, including a traumatic childhood involving abduction, led to erratic actions that sometimes caused tension among the group.

Flesh-n-Bone also faced serious legal troubles. In 2000, he was sentenced to 12 years in prison for assault with a deadly weapon after pulling an AK-47 on a friend. This was just one of many legal issues that kept the group from maintaining their full lineup for extended periods.

Beef, Breakups, and Reunions

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony was no stranger to beef. Over the years, they found themselves in feuds with other rap groups, including Three 6 Mafia, which led to an infamous on-stage altercation during their Verzuz battle in 2021.

However, some feuds eventually cooled down, and even surprising collaborations emerged, such as their recent alliance with Tha Dogg Pound, their former rivals.

The group also faced tension among themselves. Bizzy Bone’s frequent absences and erratic behavior led to multiple instances where he was kicked out and later reinstated. Despite this, the core members always found a way to reunite, proving that their bond was stronger than their differences.

Where Are They Now?

Despite their rocky journey, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony remains active. Over the years, they have released numerous projects, including New Waves (2017) and Enigma (2020). Each member has also pursued solo careers, with Krayzie Bone and Bizzy Bone being the most prolific in releasing solo albums.

However, in recent years, the group has slowed down. Krayzie Bone has battled serious health issues, including sarcoidosis, a disease that affects the lungs. His hospitalization in 2023 left fans worried, but he has since been recovering.

Legacy and Influence

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s impact on hip-hop is undeniable. They paved the way for the melodic rap style that artists like Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and Migos have adopted today. Their influence can be heard in countless songs and across multiple generations of rappers.

Despite their ups and downs, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony has solidified their place in hip-hop history. Whether they are performing on stage or dealing with personal struggles, their legacy as pioneers of a unique rap style will always remain.

While their future as a group remains uncertain, one thing is for sure: Bone Thugs-N-Harmony will always be remembered as legends of the 90s hip-hop era.