Hoodlum is a hip hop group from Rockford, Illinois, a small city about 90 miles from Chicago. The group consists of three members: Legend in the Making, also known as Legend; Doc Novel, also known as D.O.C. and Doctor; and K.I Too Deep, also known as K.I. The members grow up together and begin making music in junior high, with writing dating back to the fifth grade.

Style and influences

Hoodlum describe their music as ranging across club tracks, concept songs, stories, and material that addresses social problems. Their sound combines hip hop with soul and R&B influences, and their stated touchstones include Al Green, Marvin Gaye, Biggie, Tupac, Jay-Z and J. Cole. The group presents its work as “Hoodlum Sounds,” or the sounds of Hoodlum.

Background

At the time described in the available information, the three members are entering their final years of college. Their music is framed as a product of long-term collaboration and a strong grounding in hip hop, soul and rap.