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Crookers

9.1K Listeners

Artist Bio

Introduction & Current Status Crookers, the Italian production duo, may not be dominating the mainstream charts right now but their influence on electronic music and club culture is undeniable. Phra and Andrea Fratangelo, the masterminds behind the project, continue to drop tracks and EPs that resonate with their core fanbase and inspire a new generation of producers. Their genre-bending sound, a fusion of hip-hop, house, and electro, remains a staple in DJ sets worldwide. While the hype machine moves fast, Crookers' legacy lives on through their innovative production techniques and the countless artists they've influenced. They proved that Italian producers could make a global impact. Their early work still sounds fresh, proving they were ahead of the curve. Their current projects often involve collaborations with up-and-coming artists, proving they're dedicated to pushing the boundaries of sound. They are more focused on artistic expression and creating interesting music, instead of chasing fleeting trends. Early Life & Background The Crookers story begins in Milan, Italy, where Phra (Francesco Barbaglia) and Andrea Fratangelo first crossed paths. Both were deeply immersed in the local music scene, soaking up everything from classic hip-hop to the burgeoning sounds of electronic dance music. This eclectic mix of influences would later become a defining characteristic of the Crookers sound. Growing up in a vibrant cultural hub like Milan exposed them to a wide range of artistic expressions. They were drawn to the energy and innovation of hip-hop, but also fascinated by the possibilities of electronic music production. This combination sparked their creative fire. They started experimenting with music production software and DJing at local clubs, honing their skills and developing a unique sonic identity. This early experimentation laid the foundation for their future success as Crookers. Career Beginnings Crookers officially formed in 2003, quickly gaining recognition for their remixes and original productions. Their early tracks circulated on the internet, building a dedicated following within the underground electronic music scene. They were early adopters of blog culture, using platforms like MySpace to connect with fans and share their music. One of their early breakthroughs came with a series of remixes that caught the attention of established DJs and producers. These remixes showcased their ability to blend different genres and create infectious dancefloor anthems. Their unique style quickly set them apart from the competition. The Crookers Mixtape was an early defining moment. It was a free download that showcased their eclectic taste and innovative production techniques, further solidifying their reputation as a force to be reckoned with. Major Albums & Discography Crookers' discography is a testament to their genre-bending approach and relentless creativity. Dr Gonzo, released in 2011, is perhaps their most well-known album, showcasing their signature blend of hip-hop, electro, and house. The album features collaborations with a diverse range of artists, reflecting their willingness to experiment and push boundaries. Before Dr Gonzo, they dropped Tons of Friends which solidified their status as innovators. Each album saw them explore new sonic territories, incorporating different influences and experimenting with new production techniques. I Hope This EP Finds You Well, Put Your Hands on Me, and Mad Kidz EP are other notable projects. Don't forget the Sixteen Chapel album either. Each release further cemented their reputation as pioneers of the electro-house sound. And of course, the What Up Y’all album. Let's not forget Ghetto Guetta - EP, and the remix album Tons of Remixes. They all demonstrate their willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of electronic music. Hit Songs & Signature Tracks Crookers have unleashed a string of bangers that still get play today. Ghetto Guetta is arguably their most iconic track, a high-energy fusion of hip-hop and electro that became a staple in clubs and festivals worldwide. The track's infectious beat and catchy vocal samples made it an instant classic. I Just Can’t, another standout track, showcases their ability to craft melodic and emotionally resonant music. The song's soaring vocals and driving beat create an uplifting and euphoric atmosphere. It's a perfect example of their ability to blend different genres and create something truly unique. Tracks like 128Bpm and Strokin’ are also essential to understanding the Crookers sound. And who could forget 1+1=1 (Intro), Picture This, Able to Maximize, Belly Button Tickler + Micio Micio (Skit), Heavy and Mark It Up? They are all reminders of Crookers' ability to craft innovative and infectious dancefloor anthems. Collaborations & Features Crookers have a knack for collaborating with diverse artists, resulting in some seriously fire tracks. Their work with Kid Cudi on "Embrace the Martian" is a prime example, blending Cudi's signature vocals with Crookers' hard-hitting production style. They also teamed up with Yelle, solidifying their status as innovators. These collaborations demonstrate their versatility and willingness to experiment with different sounds and styles. They are always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of their music and create something unexpected. Their collaborations have not only produced great music but have also exposed them to new audiences, further expanding their reach and influence. Awards & Achievements While Crookers may not have a shelf full of Grammys, their impact on electronic music is undeniable. They have consistently topped the Beatport charts and received critical acclaim for their innovative productions. More importantly, they have influenced a generation of producers and DJs. Their tracks have been featured in countless DJ mixes and radio shows, spreading their sound to every corner of the globe. They have also toured extensively, bringing their high-energy performances to festivals and clubs around the world. Their true achievement lies in their ability to create music that is both innovative and accessible, pushing the boundaries of electronic music while still appealing to a wide audience. Personal Life Phra and Andrea prefer to keep their personal lives relatively private, focusing instead on their music. They are known for their dedication to their craft and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of electronic music. They are also known for their support of emerging artists, often using their platform to showcase new talent. They are passionate about fostering a sense of community within the electronic music scene. Their low-key approach to fame allows them to focus on what matters most: creating innovative and exciting music for their fans. Musical Style & Influence Crookers' sound is a unique blend of hip-hop, electro, and house, characterized by heavy basslines, distorted synths, and catchy vocal samples. They are known for their innovative production techniques and their willingness to experiment with different genres. They have cited a wide range of influences, from classic hip-hop artists like DJ Premier and A Tribe Called Quest to electronic music pioneers like Daft Punk and The Chemical Brothers. This eclectic mix of influences is evident in their genre-bending sound. Crookers, in turn, have influenced countless artists, helping to shape the sound of modern electronic music. Their impact can be heard in the work of many popular DJs and producers, solidifying their legacy as pioneers of the electro-house sound. Recent Work & What's Next Crookers continue to release new music and tour the world, bringing their signature sound to fans old and new. They remain committed to pushing the boundaries of electronic music and exploring new sonic territories. They are also involved in various side projects, showcasing their versatility and creativity.

Popular Albums

Popular Songs

Most popular songs by Crookers
Track NumberSong
01Embrace the Martian
02Ghetto Guetta
03Birthday Bash
04Intro
05Hallo Spank
061000 Pezzi
07FT3 - skit
08Johnny Depp
09Day N Nite - Acapella
10Tee-Pee Theme
11We Love Animals
12No Security
13Park The Truck
14Royal T
15Remedy
16Hold Up Your Hand
17Put Your Hands On Me
18Transilvania
19Let’s Get Breezy
20Hip Hop Changed

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