Black Eyed Peas

Originally formed as a hip hop outfit, Atban Klann, will.i.am, Taboo and apl.de.ap changed their name to Black Eyed Peas in 1995 following the death of their mentor Eazy-E, who had originally signed them to his Ruthless Records label in 1992. Their spectacular breakdancing endeared them to audiences and their positive messages of peace distanced them from the gangsta rap so much in vogue in LA at the time. The addition of singer Kim Hill made them more popular still, although it was her glamorous replacement Fergie who really triggered their dramatic rise to international stardom with the 2003 album Elephunk, which included the worldwide hit Where Is The Love? Their next album Monkey Business two years later was even more of a mainstream success, including further major hits with Don't Phunk With My Heart and My Humps. Underlining the Peas' iconic status, both Fergie and will.i.am emerged as major stars in their own right.