Naughty by Nature is a Grammy Award-winning American hip hop trio that at the time of its formation in 1989 consisted of Treach, Vin Rock, and the DJ Kay Gee.
They are known for being one of the few rap acts who were able to balance success on the pop charts with hardcore rap credibility. The group formed in East Orange, New Jersey (colloquially referred to as “Illtown” in the 1980s).
The group first appeared on the music scene in 1989 releasing an album called Independent Leaders under their then name the New Style. The album generated the minor hit “Scuffin’ Those Knees”. After the release of their first album, the group was mentored by fellow New Jersey native Queen Latifah, and subsequently changed its name.
