Tamil hip hop legend Yogi B turned 45 yesterday. The Malaysian rapper is one of the few who have broken into the Tamil film music market, where he thrives alongside big names like AR Rahman. It would be an utter injustice if we didn’t celebrate Yogi B’s birthday, don’t you think?
We take a walk down memory lane in honour of our pride and joy. Here are 10 Yogi B tunes we will ALWAYS love.
Engeyum Eppothum – Polladhavan
When Engeyum Eppothum was first released, Malaysians were dumbfounded. A local rapper singing with SP Bala? On a remake of the hit 1979 tune by the same name? Say what?
Porkaalam – Aadukalam
Aadukalam made headlines for many reasons. Porkaalam was one of them. Yogi B was on point in this tune (as he always is) and this is one of those songs that will be associated with the rooster fights of North Chennai for a long time.
Happy New Year – Kuruvi
This was one of the earliest Malaysian forays into Tamil films in recent history. Happy New Year had the people in Chennai rapping in Bahasa Malaysia, and that is a feat nobody has replicated.
Monay Monay – Poetic Ammo
Poetic Ammo’s biggest hit was Monay Monay, and Yogi’s chorus made him synonymous with the band, and created his rap warlord persona. This tune is one we won’t forget for decades to come.
Who be the Player – Poetic Ammo
To those who can remember Yogi B from the days of Poetic Ammo, more power to you. Malaysia has never seen a band as brilliant and versatile as them. Any plans of a reunion single, guys?
Indian Girls – Yogi B & Natchatra
Yogi B and Natchatra’s album, Vallavan, became one of the highest grossing Malaysian Tamil albums of its time, with almost all the songs from the album doing well. Indian Girls, however, tasted success at a different level, and was possibly paved the path for Yogi B, Dr Burn and Emcee Jesz to go international.
Madai Thiranthu – Yogi B & Natchatra
This is a song that even the non Tamil speaking Indians love. Lock Up Guna’s epic intro to the song is one that feels even more familiar than Illayaraaja’s original tune.
Happy birthday, Yogi B. We adore you.
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