Apani Emcee

Apani B. Fly, born Apani Nicole Smith on September 17, 1974, is an American hip hop emcee from Hollis, Queens, New York City. She emerged from the New York City underground hip hop scene in the 1990s. Inspired by golden age hip hop artists like Run DMC, MC Lyte, and KRS-One, Apani has been praised as a lyrical powerhouse.

Career

Apani's career began in 1996 with the independent release of her first 12-inch single, "Estragen". This was followed by high-profile guest appearances on projects with artists such as Organized Konfusion, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Pharoahe Monch, and MF Doom. She is a founding member of the hip hop group Polyrhythm Addicts, alongside DJ Spinna, Mr. Complex, and Shabaam Sahdeeq. The group's first full-length album, "Rhyme-Related," was released in 1999.

Throughout her career, Apani has remained a fixture in the NYC underground scene, performing at venues like S.O.B.'s, the Lyricist Lounge, and the Nuyorican Poets Cafe. She has opened for prominent acts including the Fugees and Brand Nubian. Her solo work includes the album "Story 2 Tell" (2004) and singles such as "The Specialist" (1999), "Spot Me" (2000), and "Strive / Progress" (2000).

Collaborations

Apani has a long history of collaborating with a diverse range of artists. She has worked with acclaimed producers and emcees including DJ Spinna, Da Beatminerz, Antipop Consortium, and the late Japanese producer Nujabes. Her work with Nujabes includes the track "Thank You."

Discography

Studio Albums

Story 2 Tell (2004)
Rhyme Related (with Polyrhythm Addicts) (1999)

Singles

Estragen / Soul Control (1998)
The Specialist / Perspective (1999)
Spot Me (2000)
Strive / Progress (2000)
Abracadabra (2003)
Laws (2003)
No Matter (2005)