On this day, July 29, in hip-hop history…

Jive Records
Jive Records
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1996: Texas rap duo UGK released their third studio album Ridin’ Dirty, on July 29, 1996.

UGK, consisting of Chad “Pimp C” Butler and his longtime partner Bernard “Bun B” Freeman, have had several albums charting on the Billboard 200 and Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums charts. The group has been featured on hit singles by artists, such as on "Big Pimpin' by Jay-Z and "Sippin' on Some Syrup" by Three 6 Mafia.

Despite no music videos or official singles being released, Ridin’ Dirty is the duo's best-selling album with 67,200 copies sold in its first week out. The album peaked at No. 2 on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and No. 15 on the Billboard 200. Ridin' Dirty, is their first to be released by a major label (Jive Records), which gives you some indication of how far the group has gone in four short years.

Although UGK is known for their southern style gangsta rap, Ridin’ Dirty also has its fair share of soulful rap music. The sound of their record is vibrant and direct, bringing you right into the thick of things. Samples from the Isley Brothers, Pink Floyd and Bootsy Collins provide a healthy, well rounded soundscape for Bun and Pimp C's raspy bellowing vocals to shine through. 21 years later, Ridin Dirty is still one of the most entertaining exports from the Texas duo.—Ian Harris

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