Del the Funky Homosapien

Lore & Background

In the early days of the virtual band, the creators sought to blur the lines between reality and animation by inviting genuine musical legends into their world. Del was among those chosen for his unique lyrical style and rhythmic precision. He fits into the Phase 1 narrative as a transient ally who visited the studio to leave an indelible mark on the group's sound before moving on to other projects. While not a permanent resident of Kong Studios, his influence lingers in tracks that define the band's initial explosion onto the music scene. Fans recognize him as part of the diverse coalition of artists who validated the concept of a virtual group collaborating with living legends.

Reader's Guide

Del joined the virtual band during the recording of their self-titled debut album. This collaboration marked a significant moment where real-world hip-hop legends intersected with the virtual band's eclectic sound. He is primarily known for his vocal performance on the track Rock the House, which showcases his unique flow alongside the band's signature style. The session took place while Damon Albarn was curating a diverse group of artists to flesh out the project's sonic landscape. Del brought an underground Canadian hip-hop perspective that complemented the British trip-hop and funk influences already present in the mix. His involvement highlights how Gorillaz operated as a collaborative hub rather than just a static four-piece act. While he did not become a permanent member, his verse remains a staple for fans of the original lineup. The connection was built on mutual respect for artistic freedom within the studio environment. This partnership helped solidify the debut album's reputation as a genre-blending masterpiece that bridged music and animation.

Did You Know?

• He is originally from Vancouver, Canada, bringing North American hip-hop flavor to the UK-based project.
• His contribution appears on one of the most iconic tracks from the 2001 debut record.
• He was part of a wave of guest artists that defined the Phase 1 era of the band's history.
• Fans often cite his verse as a highlight for its energy and lyrical complexity.

In other media

Del's songs have appeared in many video games, films, and skateboarding, rollerblading, and snowboarding videos. In 2000, "Catch All This" was used in Street Sk8er 2, "Jaw Gymnastics" in Knockout Kings, and "Positive Contact" in Mat Hoffman's Pro BMX. "If You Must" appeared in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 in 2001. In 2003, "Positive Contact" was in Tony Hawk's Underground and "The Izm" in Rolling. In 2005, Hieroglyphics' "Soweto" was on ESPN NBA 2K5, and Del's "Burnt" in Tony Hawk's American Wasteland. In 2006, "Catch a Bad One" was in Marc Ecko's Getting Up, "At the Helm" in Tony Hawk's Project 8, and "Dr. Bombay" in the film Beerfest. Hieroglyphics' "Don't Hate the Player" was in NBA 2K7, and "Clint Eastwood" in NBA 2K14. "Teamwork" appeared on PlayStation Home. Del's songs were also in snowboarding movies: "Press Rewind" for Eero Ettala's part in White Balance, "If You Must" in DC Mountain Lab, and Hieroglyphics' "You Never Knew" and "At The Helm" for parts in Mack Dawg's 2000 video Technical Difficulties. Del collaborated with John King and Mark Mothersbaugh on the original score for Skate 3, released in May 2010. In February 2016, Del, Black Thought, Murs, and Fashawn recorded "Rise Up" for Street Fighter V, with a music video released by Capcom. In October 2018, Deltron 3030 collaborated with Craig of the Creek, appearing in the episode "The Kid from 3030" with original songs; Deltron briefly returns in the Season 3 finale singing "Positive Contact". Del made cameo appearances in films: Ted Demme's Who's the Man? as a teen with two members of Da Youngsta's and an uncredited Ashanti, and Jonah Hill's Mid90s as a homeless bum alongside Chad Muska. He guest-starred as rapper "Old Skool" on the Nickelodeon series Middlemost Post in the episode "The Same Ol' Same".