Digable Planets

Jazz-inflected hip hop with deep roots in poetry, politics and groove takes center stage as a foundational trio returns to the stage with a full live band. Digable Planets bring their fluid blend of jazz samples, Afrocentric lyricism and laid-back swing to Miami Beach, revisiting a catalog that helped define an alternative path for hip hop in the 1990s.

Formed by Ishmael “Butterfly” Butler, Craig “Doodlebug” Irving and Mary Ann “Ladybug Mecca” Vieira, the group emerged with the GRAMMY-winning single “Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat)” and expanded their sonic universe on albums such as Reachin’ (A New Refutation of Time and Space) and Blowout Comb. The latter, initially understated on release, has since become a touchstone record, widely cited for its influence on jazz musicians, lyric-forward hip hop artists and Afrofuturist aesthetics.

The performance is part of the Blowout Comb 30th Anniversary Tour, featuring Digable Planets backed by a five-piece band that emphasizes the ensemble feel and improvisational spirit embedded in their recordings. The concert takes place Friday, February 13 at the Miami Beach Bandshell and is presented by The Rhythm Foundation.