It’s been 20 years since a new group called Arrested Development burst onto the gangsta rap dominated scene with defiant lyrics of hope. The world was ready for the change, as Arrested Development became the first ever hip-hop group to receive the Best New Artist Grammy. The group also took out Best Rap Single Grammy for their anthemic prayer-like hit song, Tennessee. The hip-hop collective, who have stayed true to their unique brand of message rap, return to New Zealand to perform their hits including Tennessee, Mr Wendell, People Everyday, Revolution, Ease My Mind and more.

With the success of their debut album 3 Years, 5 Months & 2 Days in the Life Of… money came in for the group, led by charismatic frontman Speech. Instead of spending it on material things the group gave back by becoming the first African American artists to donate money to Nelson Mandela and ANC. They used their voices and their status to the benefit of many underprivileged brothers and sisters around the world

With the success of the single Mr Wendal, Arrested Development brought the issue of homelessness to the forefront. The group donated half of the royalty earnings from Mr Wendal to the National Coalition of the Homeless. Awards, chart success and accolades continued to follow. One of the highlights was being asked to write a song for Spike Lee’s movie about famed minister and human rights activist, Malcom X. The movie, X, went on to become one of Spike Lee’s most highly acclaimed works. The Arrested Development song, Revolution, would forever be associated with one of the most important movies in black culture. Eighteen years later, the response that comes whenever the group performs this song is inspiring.

The group followed up their debut album with their sophomore release Zingalamaduni. After the release of this album, the group took a break, and in the year 2000, Arrested Development re-emerged with a new lineup and a new album called Heroes Of The Harvest. This short hiatus allowed the group to be relieved of the pressures of the industry, and one of hip-hop’s best groups, were back rocking stages.

For the last sixteen years, Arrested Development has performed concerts in literally every part of the world. They continue to release new music and find new success in different corners of the globe. Their shows are a celebration of life. Experiencing an Arrested Development concert is an uplifting and spiritual event wrapped into one big party.