The rap duo known as Outkast consists of Big Boi and Dre. The two met while students at Tri-Cities High near Atlanta, Georgia. Their first album, 1994’s Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, included the hit single “Player’s Ball.” Outkast became known for its heavy funk emphasis and far-out wardrobe; E! Online once described them as “psychedelic glam-rappers.” The band cemented its fame with two Grammy Awards in 2002: best rap album for Stankonia and best rap duo for the tune “Ms. Jackson,” from the same album. Their 2003 double album, Speakerboxxx/The Love Below was a critical and popular success and featured the crossover hit “Hey Ya!” Other Outkast albums include ATLiens (1996) and Aquemini (1998) and Idlewild (2006).Since 2007, both members have pursued their solo careers. In January 2014, Outkast announced they would reunite to celebrate their 20th anniversary by performing at more than 40 festivals worldwide in 2014, beginning at the Coachella Festival in April.The duo is one of the most successful hip-hop groups of all time, having received six Grammy Awards. Between six studio albums and a greatest hits release, Outkast has sold over 25 million records. Meanwhile they have garnered widespread critical acclaim, with publications such as Rolling Stone and Pitchfork Media listing albums such as Aquemini and Stankonia among the best of their era.
