Baha Men

Baha Men originated in New Providence, Bahamas, in 1977 as High Voltage. The group initially focused on disco and funk music, performing in local nightclubs and hotels and releasing several albums independently. Their early work established them as a significant presence in the Bahamian music scene. A turning point occurred in 1991 when a tape of their music reached Atlantic Records A&R executive Steve Greenberg. He signed the band to the Big Beat subsidiary and prompted their name change to Baha Men, marking the beginning of their international career.

In 1992, Baha Men released their debut album, “Junkanoo,” which featured the local hit “Back to the Island.” This was followed by the 1994 album “Kalik,” which included the international success “Dancing in the Moonlight.” The band continued to release music, with albums like “I Like What I Like” (1997) and “Doong Spank” (1998) under Polygram. Despite selling fewer copies in the U.S. and being dropped by the label, their dedication remained. Greenberg later established S-Curve Records and re-signed the band. In 1999, original vocalist Nehemiah Hield was replaced by Omerit Hield, and their album “2 Zero 0-0” was first released in Japan, where the band had cultivated a strong following.

The early 2000s brought Baha Men immense global recognition with their song “Who Let the Dogs Out,” a remake produced by Steve Greenberg and Michael Mangini. This track became a chart success in numerous countries and a popular anthem at sporting events across the U.S. The song garnered significant accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording in 2000, Billboard Music Awards for World Music Artist and Album of the Year, and a Nickelodeon Kids Choice Award for Favorite Song. The group secured another Kids Choice Award for Favorite Band in 2002. Their music was also featured in major motion pictures such as “Miss Congeniality,” “Around the World in 80 Days,” “Garfield: The Movie,” and “Shrek,” further solidifying their presence in popular culture. They have also contributed to DisneyMania albums, covering classics like “Hakuna Matata” and “It’s a Small World.”