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Body Count

AmericasUnited StatesAlternative MetalMetalcore
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Band Timeline

1990

Formation of Body Count in Los Angeles

Body Count was formed in 1990 in Los Angeles by rapper Ice-T and lead guitarist Ernie C, motivated by their shared interest in heavy metal music. Ice-T, already established as a rapper, took on the role of lead vocalist and main lyricist despite feeling he didn't possess a conventional singing voice. The original lineup also included D-Roc on rhythm guitar, Beatmaster V on drums, and Mooseman on bass. The band aimed to blend heavy metal with socially conscious themes, particularly reflecting on urban violence, which was encapsulated in the band's name 'Body Count,' a comment on the deadly gang warfare in Los Angeles.
1991

Introduction of Body Count at Lollapalooza and debut album preparations

In 1991, Ice-T introduced Body Count to a wider audience during the Lollapalooza tour, blending his hip-hop and metal music sets. This tour was significant because it exposed the band to alternative and middle-class fans who might not have otherwise engaged with heavy metal or hip hop. Concurrently, the band contributed the song 'Body Count' to Ice-T's solo album O.G. Original Gangster, marking their first recorded appearance. The song also served as a statement against criticisms of Ice-T's blending of rap and rock music, highlighting the African-American roots of rock.
1992

Release of self-titled debut album and 'Cop Killer' controversy

Body Count released their self-titled debut album in 1992 on Sire Records. The album gained widespread attention, particularly due to the provocative track 'Cop Killer,' which sparked a major controversy. The song's depiction of police violence led to public outcry and pressure from law enforcement and political figures. Although their label defended the song, Ice-T ultimately decided to remove 'Cop Killer' from the album to refocus attention on the music rather than the controversy. This tumultuous period marked a defining moment in the band's career, spotlighting issues of censorship and artistic freedom in music.
1993-1995

Departure from Sire Records and continuation without 'Cop Killer'

Following the controversy over 'Cop Killer,' Body Count parted ways with Sire Records in 1993. Despite these challenges, the band persevered and continued to create and release music independently. This period was marked by efforts to solidify their place in the heavy metal genre while navigating the complexities of their public image shaped by previous controversies. The band worked on new music, though specific album releases in this period are less highlighted, focusing more on maintaining the band's presence and evolving sound.
1996-2000

Loss of original members and lineup changes

During the mid to late 1990s, Body Count faced tragic losses when three of their original seven members passed away. D-Roc died from lymphoma, Beatmaster V succumbed to leukemia, and Mooseman was killed in a drive-by shooting. These events deeply affected the band both personally and professionally, necessitating lineup changes. Despite these hardships, Ice-T and Ernie C remained at the core, recruiting new members to carry forward the band's legacy. This era was one of rebuilding and resilience, reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by the band both externally and within their ranks.
2021

Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance

In 2021, Body Count achieved a significant milestone in their career by winning the Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards. They won this award for their song 'Bum Rush' from the album 'Carnivore.' This accolade marked their second Grammy nomination and their first win, cementing their status as a respected and influential act within the heavy metal music scene. The award recognized the band's enduring impact and ability to combine heavy metal with social commentary over three decades after their formation.

Albums

body-count_1st_album
Body Count
17 tracks
1992
body-count_2nd_album
Born Dead
12 tracks
1994
body-count_3rd_album
Violent Demise: The Last Days
16 tracks
1997
body-count_4th_album
Murder 4 Hire
12 tracks
2006
body-count_5th_album
Manslaughter
14 tracks
2014
📷
No Image
Bloodlust
11 tracks
2017
body-count_7th_album
Carnivore
11 tracks
2020
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Vince Dennis

2001

Bass guitar

Will Dorsey, Jr.

2009

Drums (drum set)

Ice‐T

1989

Lead vocals

Ernie C

1989

Guitar

Juan Garcia

2013

Guitar

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Mooseman

1989
1997

Bass guitar

Griz

1997
2001

Bass guitar

D-Roc

1989
2004

Guitar

Beatmaster V

1989
1996

Membranophone

Bendrix Williams

2004
2006

Guitar

OT

1997
2006

Membranophone

Story of Body Count

Body Count: A Thrashing Legacy Forged in Controversy

Body Count, the Los Angeles-based heavy metal band, emerged in 1990 with a unique blend of rap and metal, a testament to the musical vision of frontman Ice-T. While known for his groundbreaking career in hip hop, Ice-T's passion for heavy metal led him to co-found the group with guitarist Ernie C. The band's dynamic is clear: Ice-T's raw vocals and lyrics, fueled by his streetwise perspective, combine with Ernie C's powerful guitar riffs to deliver a signature sound.

Their 1992 self-titled debut album shook the music world. The controversy surrounding the track "Cop Killer" brought intense scrutiny and even threats of censorship, yet ultimately solidified Body Count's reputation as a band that wasn't afraid to tackle sensitive issues. While the song was later removed from the album at Ice-T's request, the debate it ignited highlighted the band's willingness to push boundaries and spark dialogue.

Despite the turmoil, Body Count persevered, releasing six more albums and solidifying their place in the heavy metal scene. The band has weathered personal losses, with three of its original seven members passing away – D-Roc from lymphoma, Beatmaster V from leukemia, and Mooseman in a tragic drive-by shooting.

However, Body Count continues to thrive, with a current lineup that includes Ice-T, Ernie C, guitarist Juan Garcia, bassist Vincent Price, drummer Will "Ill Will" Dorsey Jr., and backing vocalists Sean E Sean and Little Ice (Ice-T's son).

Their 2020 Grammy win for Best Metal Performance for "Bum Rush" off the album Carnivore proves that Body Count's music still resonates with audiences worldwide. From their controversial beginnings to their current acclaim, Body Count stands as a testament to the power of music to express truth, challenge norms, and inspire lasting impact.

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