Sweatshop Union is the undisputed heavyweight of North Western hip-hop, and has earned a reputation as the hardest working collective in the region. Having performed over five hundred shows internationally, their live performance has become a mainstay of Canadian music.
In 2002, a concept album was recorded called: Sweatshop Union. The record was released internationally on Battle Axe Records and the new group began their relentless touring schedule that has proven to be a key catalyst in their success.
The next three records solidified Sweatshop Union‘s presence in rap music. The group co-signed to EMI and went out on the road touring with the Black Eyed Peas, Swollen Members and the Living Legends as well as opening shows for Snoop Dogg, De La Soul, and The Roots. Both college and commercial radio gave the albums substantial airtime and soon after came nominations for Juno Awards, a Canadian Radio Music Award, Much Music Video Awards and more. By 2006 Sweatshop Union had begun headlining shows in the U.S. and appearing at major festivals across North America.
Recently, URB Magazine featured them in their next top 100. They’re not alone in thinking that Sweatshop Union is a band worth keeping an eye on. Their consistently poignant music continues to become more relevant daily and the group shows no signs of slowing down.
March 1st, 2011 marked the release of the groups most ambitious record to date, an experimental concept album best described as a runaway mushroom trip through the inner and outer cosmos. They titled the record simply: Bill Murray. It went on to win Best Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year at the 2011 WCMA's.
Along with recent releases from Sweatshop Unions’ Dirty Circus and Pigeon Hole, the group aims to become the most prolific collective in hip hop.
“Soulful, conscientious hip hop.”
-Vue Weekly
“Substance and style working in perfect equilibrium. 4 out of 5.”
-NOW Magazine
“A kick ass live show!”
-24 Hours |