Soopa Villainz
| Company type | Supergroup |
|---|---|
| Industry | Hip hop music |
| Founded | 2002 |
| Headquarters | Detroit, Michigan , United States |
| Products | Music albums, singles |
Soopa Villainz is a hip hop supergroup originating from Detroit, Michigan, established in 2002. The ensemble consists of Joseph Bruce under the alias Mr. Diamond, Joseph Utsler known as Mr. Club, and Esham who performs as Mr. Spade. Later on, Lavel (Mr. Heart) became a member but left during the group's break. The original formation was reinstated in 2018. Their lyrical content predominantly draws inspiration from comic book supervillain characters. After ceasing activities in 2005, Insane Clown Posse announced a comeback slated for 2017, which was symbolized by the unveiling of a new logo banner during their July 21, 2018 show, marking the group's revival.
Live shows by Soopa Villainz recommenced at the 20th annual "Soopa" Gathering of the Juggalos held in Springville, Indiana, on August 2, 2019.
History
The collective made its initial appearance in 2002 on Esham's album Acid Rain and Insane Clown Posse's The Wraith: Shangri-La. That same year, they released the Halloween-themed single "Silence of the Hams." Their first full-length album, Furious, was released in 2005 and achieved notable chart success: number 9 on the Billboard Top Independent Albums chart, number 42 on Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, and number 92 on the overall Billboard 200.
Disagreements with Psychopathic Records led to Esham and Lavel departing in October 2005, which effectively ended Soopa Villainz at that time.
At the 2016 Gathering of the Juggalos (GOTJ), Insane Clown Posse suggested a possible reunion for 2017; however, Esham later declared he would not participate in future GOTJ events.
During ICP's seminar at the 2018 GOTJ, Violent J announced that the 2019 festival would carry the theme The Soopa Gathering to celebrate its twentieth anniversary. On Saturday night of the event, Esham joined ICP on stage confirming Soopa Villainz’s reunion along with intentions to release new material and appear at GOTJ 2019.
On September 18, 2019, Soopa Villainz performed on Devil's Night at Detroit’s El Club venue, one day prior to ICP’s annual Hallowicked concert.
Discography
Studio albums
- Furious (August 16, 2005)
Compilation albums
- It Ain't Safe No More (May 20, 2006)
- Hit List (July 26, 2019)
Singles
- "Ricochet" (October 31, 2019)