Chris Kelly, American rapper (b. 1978)

In the vibrant tapestry of early 1990s hip hop, a youthful duo emerged that captivated audiences worldwide with their infectious energy and a distinctive fashion statement. Kris Kross, an American hip hop act, was comprised of two remarkably talented young men: Chris "Mac Daddy" Kelly and Chris "Daddy Mac" Smith. Their story is one of rapid ascent, marked by unprecedented success at an age when most children are just beginning to navigate their musical tastes, let alone create them.

Their journey into the limelight began in 1991 when they were discovered in an Atlanta mall by the burgeoning music impresario Jermaine Dupri. Dupri, who would later become a highly influential producer and founder of So So Def Recordings, immediately recognized the raw talent and undeniable charisma of the then 12- and 13-year-old youngsters. This discovery proved to be a pivotal moment, not just for the duo, but also for Dupri's burgeoning career, propelling both to international acclaim.

The "Jump" Phenomenon and Chart Dominance

The following year, 1992, Kris Kross burst onto the global music scene with their smash hit debut single, "Jump." This energetic track, known for its catchy hook and innovative sampling of the Jackson 5's "I Want You Back," quickly became an anthem for a generation. "Jump" soared to the top of the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, where it remarkably held the number one position for eight consecutive weeks. Its immense popularity was cemented by its double platinum certification as a single, making Kris Kross one of the youngest acts ever to achieve such monumental success in the music industry.

Their debut album, Totally Krossed Out, released in the wake of "Jump's" success, mirrored the single's triumph, topping the US Billboard 200. This album not only showcased their youthful exuberance but also solidified their place in the pop-rap landscape. They continued to release music, following up with two more studio albums: Da Bomb (1993) and Young, Rich & Dangerous (1996). Both subsequent albums demonstrated their evolving sound and managed to achieve significant commercial success, each making it into the Top 20 of the Billboard charts.

A Signature Style: Backwards Fashion

Beyond their musical achievements, Kris Kross carved out a unique identity through their signature fashion style: wearing their clothes backwards. This quirky, eye-catching trend, often featuring baggy jeans and sports jerseys worn with the tags showing, became synonymous with the duo. It was a cultural phenomenon that transcended music, influencing youth fashion trends across the globe and becoming a memorable part of 90s pop culture iconography. This distinctive look further amplified their appeal, making them instantly recognizable and adding to their cool factor among their young fanbase.

Enduring Legacy and a Tragic Loss

Despite their relatively short run in the active spotlight, Kris Kross left an indelible mark on the hip-hop landscape and popular culture. Their music, particularly "Jump," remains a staple on throwback playlists and continues to introduce new generations to their infectious sound. The duo's impact is further underscored by the numerous references to their work in the songs and albums of other acclaimed artists, including hip-hop giants like Eminem, Dr. Dre, 2Pac, and Method Man, among many others. This enduring acknowledgment from peers highlights their significant, albeit brief, influence on the genre.

Tragically, the life of Chris "Mac Daddy" Kelly was cut short. On May 1, 2013, at the age of 34, he passed away due to a drug overdose. His untimely death was a profound loss for his family, friends, and the legions of fans who remembered him as half of the pioneering young duo who brought so much joy and energy to the music world.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kris Kross

What made Kris Kross famous?

Kris Kross rose to fame primarily through their immensely popular 1992 debut single, "Jump," which topped the Billboard Hot 100 for eight weeks. Their youthful energy, catchy pop-rap style, and unique backwards fashion also contributed significantly to their widespread recognition.

How old were Kris Kross when they started?

Chris "Mac Daddy" Kelly and Chris "Daddy Mac" Smith were just 12 and 13 years old, respectively, when they were discovered by Jermaine Dupri in 1991 and subsequently achieved global success with their debut album and single.

What was Kris Kross's signature style?

Their iconic signature style involved wearing their clothes backwards, including baggy jeans, jerseys, and jackets. This fashion trend became a notable part of 1990s youth culture and an instantly recognizable aspect of the duo's image.

Who discovered Kris Kross?

Kris Kross was discovered by acclaimed music producer and So So Def Recordings founder Jermaine Dupri in an Atlanta mall in 1991, leading to their signing and subsequent rise to stardom.

What happened to Chris "Mac Daddy" Kelly?

Chris "Mac Daddy" Kelly tragically passed away on May 1, 2013, at the age of 34, due to a drug overdose.