Rap and hip hop music in general was just almost inexistent in the Gambia. The attitude of the people and their in appreciative mannerism of the people towards this genery made it even more difficult to for it to survive. However, despite all this bottlenecks, the emergence of the PEPPA HOUSE CREW in 1995 ushered in a completely different feeling and spirit about hip and rap music in The Gambia. Originally formed by Sheikh Tijan Jallow a.ka Tiju Brain, Star C a.k.a Momodou Lamin Fatty and Pa Modou Jammeh also known as M.J. In their lyrics, the trio carried messages that were able to largely influence society, especially young people in a very astonishing and unprecedented manner. That time, one may have thought that their lyrics are too profane, radical or revolutionary. But with the passage of time, greater understanding had been established and their words, ideas and philosophies had sunk deeply in the minds of hip hop and lovers of rap music.
After struggling for five years trying to develop and enhance their potential, the PEPPA HOUSE CREW established the Bulldoff Records and the Bulldoff studio. This was indeed a rarity in the music scene that time. It was difficult to find a studio, and was it was available; studio time was way too expensive the emerging groups and young musicians coming up. As such, the establishment of the Bulldoff studio allowed not only the production of more music, but equally enhanced creativity and stimulated the passion for Gambian music greatly.
After the establishment of the Bulldoff studio in 2000, the big break out followed, when the PEPPA HOUSE CREW released its first album called “break out”. The album was a true reflection of Gambian hip hop and hard core music. It was a blend and fusion of hard hit tracks addressing social ills and national interest matters and on the other hand tracks that are appealing and sensational. It was termed as one of the best and most genuine hip hop albums ever produced in The Gambia. The group continued to do music and improving its lyrics and as well continue to impact society. The studio equally grew to become a household name.
With the prolific MJ in the studio, brilliant sounds were created, giving greater chances and opportunities to young Gambian artists. The renowned “smiling coast rhythm inclusive; sadly, in 2007, Pa Modou Jammeh a.k.a M.J passed away. His demise brought about a stalemate in the group and as well as the studio. M.J produced almost 60 percent of all music played on Gambian radios. As such, his lost was not only felt by the group but the entire music fraternity in The Gambia. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Though the loss is a painful one and indeed irreparable, Star C and Sheikh Tijan are determined to move on with the group’s dream. According to Tiju Brain, “Keeping his legacy alive is the only way we can show our respect to his departed soul”.
In 2008, PEPPA HOUSE CREW recorded a new riddim called SHOW LOVE, consisting of fourteen (14) Gambian artists. This album is yet to be released but the promotion is going on. The group is now busy working on their new album which is slated to come out in 2009. This album will be a much talked about when it comes out. It is an album that shows the determination and strength of this great group.