
Elephant Man
Biography: O'Neil Bryan was born in the notorious Seaview Gardens in
Kingston, Jamaica an inner city area also known as the birthplace of several
other dancehall icons including Beenie Man and Bounty Killa. Ironically he was
born on September the 11th; one of his most popular songs "the
Bombing" addressed the infamous events in NYC on his birthday in 2001.
He was nicknamed "Dumbo the Elephant" because of his large ears by his
soccer playing friend Crack Skull who also introduced Elephant to the music
business in 1991.
In 1995 Elephant would become a member of the Scare Dem Crew a group of four;
Boom Dandimite, Harry Toddler and Nitty Kutchie were the other members.
Originally called the Seaview Family the group later changed their name inspired
by their mentor Bounty Killa. After the success of their debut "Pure
Gal", the group became known for their wild stage antics, fusion of
dancehall and hip-hop, popularity amongst the teenage crowd and their rivalry
with the Monster Shack crew.
In 2000 Elephant released a solo album on Greensleeves records. Several hits
would follow including "Replacement Killer" however it was the song
and accompanying dance "Log-on" that would bring Elephant the most
fame. He continues to release songs associated with dances such as "Drive
by" and "Higher Level."
Elephant Man's music is overshadowed by his outrageous performances, he is known
as "Energy God" for his stage antics. He climbs on monitors, stage
dives, runs from side to side and brings people on stage to dance and sometimes
fondle him. At the Reggae Sumfest in 1998 Elephant climbed onto a television
crane to perform high above the audience.
Equally outrageous is his appearance; bright yellow-orange hair and customized
clothing it sometimes seems that he is inspired to become either a cartoon
character and/or superhero. He is also known for his many catch phrases, his
barely detectable lisp and his repuatation for bearing children.
Related Links: Elephant
Man - Pon Di River |