2 Live Crew, a group known for their Miami bass sound and explicit lyrics, rose to fame in the late ’80s. Fresh Kid Ice, whose real name is Christopher Wong Won, joined the group in 1986 at the young age of 19. This addition to the lineup, which also included Mr. Mixx and Luther “Uncle Luke” Campbell, helped solidify 2 Live Crew’s prominent status in the music scene.
Originally from Rochester, New York, Ross moved to Los Angeles at the age of 14, where he eventually crossed paths with Mr. Mixx. This encounter led to Ross joining 2 Live Crew and relocating to Miami to create music that would push boundaries and challenge censorship.
In 1989, the group faced controversy when their album “As Nasty As They Wanna Be” was deemed obscene by a Florida judge. Despite this setback, 2 Live Crew persevered through legal battles and continued to advocate for freedom of speech through their music.
Ross reflected on his time with the group, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to be a pioneer in the realm of explicit lyrics and First Amendment rights. He acknowledged the role 2 Live Crew played in challenging censorship and pushing boundaries in the music industry.
Over the years, 2 Live Crew underwent lineup changes, but Ross remained a constant member until the group’s final album, “The Real One,” was released in 1998. Sadly, Ross is the second member of the group to pass away, following the death of founding member Fresh Kid Ice in 2017 due to liver cirrhosis.
Despite the challenges and controversies they faced, 2 Live Crew’s legacy lives on through their music and their contributions to the fight for freedom of speech in the music industry. Ross’ impact as a member of the group will forever be remembered by fans and fellow musicians alike.