Pharoahe Monch

Troy Donald Jamerson, known professionally as Pharoahe Monch, was born on October 31, 1972, in Queens, New York City. He began his career as part of the rap duo Organized Konfusion with Prince Poetry, releasing three albums: the self-titled “Organized Konfusion,” “Stress: The Extinction Agenda,” and “The Equinox.” These albums, released between 1991 and 1997, garnered positive critical reviews and showcased Monch’s talent for complex linguistics and multisyllabic rhyme schemes. The duo also managed much of the production for these projects. After the group disbanded, Monch pursued a solo career, signing with Rawkus Records in 1999.

His solo debut, “Internal Affairs,” was released in 1999 and featured the hit single “Simon Says.” This track reached No. 97 on the Billboard Hot 100, though its unauthorized sample led to legal issues and a halt in album distribution. Despite this setback, Monch continued to be active in the hip-hop scene, making guest appearances and contributing to various projects. He collaborated with artists such as Mos Def and Nate Dogg on the song “Oh No” (2000), contributed to the “Training Day” soundtrack (2001), and performed the theme song for “Madden NFL 2002.” He also featured on Linkin Park’s remix album “Reanimation” (2002) with the track “H! Vltg3.”

Monch released his second solo album, “Desire,” in 2007, followed by “W.A.R. (We Are Renegades)” in 2011, and “PTSD: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder” in 2014, all released under his independent label, W.A.R. Media. These albums featured collaborations with artists like Jill Scott, Royce da 5’9″, and Immortal Technique. In 2019, Monch formed the rap-rock supergroup th1rt3en, releasing their debut album “A Magnificent Day for an Exorcism” in 2021. Monch’s consistent output and intricate style have cemented his reputation as a respected lyricist within the hip-hop community. He is also preparing to release his album “External Affairs” in 2025.