Major Lazer is an electrifying Jamaican-American electronic dance music and D.J. trio that has revolutionized the music scene since its formation in 2008.
Comprising the talented record producer Diplo and DJs Walshy Fire and Ape Drums, Major Lazer has become a force to be reckoned with in the world of E.D.M., dancehall, reggae, and various other genres, with their infectious beats, innovative sounds, and energetic performances.
Profile
- Members: -Diplo, Walshy Fire, Ape Drums
- Origin: Kingston, Jamaica
- Genres: E.D.M., dancehall, reggae, hip hop, moombahton, trap, reggae fusion, electro house, soca, rocksteady
- Years Active: 2008-present
- Labels: Secretly Canadian, Downtown, Columbia, Mad Decent
- Past Members: Switch, Jillionaire
History
Major Lazer was founded in 2008 by Diplo and Switch, who initially crossed paths while working with M.I.A. Their first album, “Guns Don’t Kill People… Lazers Do,” was released in 2009 and featured collaborations with renowned artists such as Santigold, Vybz Kartel, and Nina Sky.
The album blended reggae with dancehall, creating a unique sound that caught the attention of music lovers worldwide.
In 2011, Switch left the group, and both Jillionaire and Walshy Fire joined Diplo in continuing Major Lazer’s musical journey.
Their sophomore album, “Free the Universe,” was released in 2013 and showcased their ability to fuse various genres seamlessly. Major Lazer worked with artists like No Doubt, producing tracks for their album “Push and Shove.”
The group’s breakthrough came in 2015 with their album “Peace Is the Mission.” This critically acclaimed release featured collaborations with artists like MØ, Ellie Goulding, and Ariana Grande.
The chart-topping single “Lean On,” produced in collaboration with D.J. Snake, became a global sensation and solidified Major Lazer’s position as E.D.M. trailblazer.
Current Members
- Diplo: A talented record producer and one of the founding members of Major Lazer. Diplo’s unique production skills have been instrumental in shaping the group’s sound.
- Walshy Fire: A DJ and multi-instrumentalist who joined Major Lazer in 2011. Walshy Fire’s energetic performances and eclectic musical taste have contributed to the group’s success.
- Ape Drums: A skilled D.J. and record producer who joined Major Lazer in 2019, bringing his expertise in E.D.M. and dancehall.
Former Members
- Switch: One of the original members of Major Lazer, Switch contributed to the group’s early success before parting ways in 2011.
- Jillionaire: A former member of Major Lazer who joined the group in 2011 and left in 2019 to pursue solo projects.
Discography
- Guns Don’t Kill People… Lazers Do”
- Free the Universe
- Peace Is the Mission
- Music Is the Weapon
In addition to their albums, Major Lazer has also released six E.P.s, including “Apocalypse Soon” (2014) and “Know No Better” (2017), which featured collaborations with artists such as Pharrell Williams, Sean Paul, Camila Cabello, and Travis Scott.
Awards and Nominations
Major Lazer’s unique blend of genres and groundbreaking music has earned them recognition and numerous awards and nominations.
Some notable achievements include:
- – GAFFA Awards (Denmark) for Best Foreign Song with “Lean On” (2015)
- – Billboard Music Awards for Top Dance/Electronic Song with “Lean On” (2016)
- – American Music Awards nomination for Favorite Artist – Electronic Dance Music (2016)
- – Latin Grammy Awards nomination for Best Urban Fusion/Performance with “Sua Cara” (2018)- Grammy Awards nomination for Best Dance/Electronic Album with “Music Is the Weapon” (2020)
