Biography
Tropidelic is a dynamic six-piece band hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, known for their eclectic fusion of reggae, hip-hop, and high-energy funk. Formed in 2005 by frontman Matthew Roads and Kyle "Chevontez" Cheuvront while attending Kent State University, the band began as a dorm room project that quickly evolved into a full-fledged musical endeavor. Their early days were marked by self-produced albums and a relentless drive to share their unique sound, leading them to distribute over 10,000 free copies of their first EP, "Rebirth of the Dope," and relocate to Cleveland to tap into a broader audience. Over the years, Tropidelic's lineup has seen several changes, with Roads remaining the constant driving force. The current ensemble includes James Begin on vocals and trombone, Bobby "Chronic" Markouc on lead guitar, David "Pags" Paglisotti on bass, Rex Larkman on drums, and Robert Schafer on trumpet and keyboard.
This diverse group brings together influences ranging from hip-hop and metal to funk and reggae, creating a sound that is both original and deeply rooted in various musical traditions. Their commitment to authenticity and fun is evident in their performances, where synergy flows member to member, captivating audiences nationwide. Tropidelic's musical journey is marked by a series of successful releases that showcase their evolving sound. Their 2017 album, "Heavy is the Head," released under LAW Records, reached number three on the Billboard reggae charts, solidifying their place in the genre. The 2019 release, "Here in the Heights," peaked at number two on the same chart, further demonstrating their growing popularity.
Their latest album, "All The Colors," released in August 2022, features collaborations with notable artists such as Nick Hexum of 311, Krayzie Bone of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, and Brother Ali, reflecting their expansive musical reach and willingness to explore new territories. Beyond their studio work, Tropidelic is renowned for their electrifying live performances. They have graced the stages of major festivals like Electric Forest, California Roots Music & Art Festival, Reggae Rise Up, and the Warped Tour. Sharing the stage with acts like 311, Slightly Stoopid, The Dirty Heads, and Michael Franti, they have built a reputation for engaging shows that leave audiences energized and connected. In 2017, they launched their own annual event, the Freakstomp Music Festival, which has since evolved into the Everwild Music Festival, drawing fans from across the country to celebrate music and community.
In recent years, Tropidelic has continued to expand their influence and reach. They have amassed over 50 million streams on Spotify alone, a testament to their growing fan base and the universal appeal of their music. Their relentless touring schedule has seen them perform at iconic venues like Red Rocks Amphitheatre and collaborate with a diverse array of artists, further cementing their status in the music industry. Despite their success, the band remains grounded, embodying a blue-collar work ethic that reflects their Cleveland roots. As Roads aptly puts it, "I'm nose to the grindstone.