C-Funk

• East Palo Alto
• |
• California

C-Funk

Marcus McKinley, better known by his stage name C-Funk (formerly Cap’N Crunch), is a versatile and influential rapper from East Palo Alto, California. His journey in the music industry reflects a dynamic evolution, marked by a series of name changes and a diverse range of musical contributions.

In the 1980s and early 1990s, C-Funk started his music career under the name Cap’N Crunch as a member of the group Rated X, alongside Cool Breeze and D.J. Ajax. During this period, he was known for his involvement in producing tracks that resonated with the raw energy and authentic storytelling characteristic of East Palo Alto’s hip-hop scene.

Transitioning from group work to a solo career, he adopted the name C-Funk, under which he explored and expanded his musical horizons. His solo work is characterized by a fusion of traditional hip-hop sounds with innovative elements, showcasing his versatility and creativity as an artist.

In 2001, C-Funk underwent another transformation, changing his name to !ProHoeZak?. This period marked a significant expansion of his career, both in terms of his artistic output and his collaborations with other artists. He starred in an HBO feature film titled “Who Makes the Rules” and accumulated an impressive list of production credits for notable artists like Daz Dillinger (Deathrow), Kurupt (Deathrow), Kokane (Doggystyle), Suga Free (Atlantic), Yukmouth (Rap-A-Lot), and Night Owl (Priority).

C-Funk’s discography includes several albums that highlight his evolving style and artistic growth. In 1992, he released “I’m Out 2 Stoages” under Tandem Records. This was followed by “Three Dimensional Ear Pleasure” in 1995 under Scarface Records, “Shrooms” in 1999 under Taylor Made Records, and “About Funkin Time” in 2008.

Known for his distinct style and contribution to the West Coast hip-hop scene, C-Funk has made a lasting impact on the genre. His work spans a variety of styles and aliases, each reflecting a different facet of his artistic personality. Through his evolution from Cap’N Crunch to C-Funk and then to !ProHoeZak?, Marcus McKinley has remained a significant and dynamic figure in hip-hop, continuously pushing the boundaries of the genre and leaving a lasting legacy in the world of music.