Naughty By Nature Released Their Third Album ’19 Naughty III’ 33 Years Ago

On this day in 1993, Naughty by Nature released their third studio album 19 Naughty III, a project that not only defined their career but helped soundtrack the early 90s at its commercial and creative peak.

Coming off the momentum of their self titled breakthrough, the New Jersey trio of Treach, Vin Rock and DJ Kay Gee returned sharper, more confident and fully aware of their place in the culture. If their previous work proved they could compete, 19 Naughty III proved they could dominate.

The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, a rare feat for a rap group at the time, and eventually reached multi platinum status. But beyond the numbers, this was a record that balanced rugged lyricism with crossover appeal in a way few could master.

The crown jewel was “Hip Hop Hooray,” a record that instantly transcended genre. Built around a sample of “You’re the One for Me” by D Train, the track became more than a single. It became an anthem. From NBA arenas to block parties, that signature “hey, ho” call and response still rings out three decades later. It is one of those rare Hip Hop records that feels eternal.

Then there was “It’s On,” a reminder that Treach was one of the most technically gifted emcees of his era. His breath control, internal rhyme schemes and aggressive delivery placed him in conversations with the best lyricists of the time. Tracks like “Written on Ya Kitten” showed the group’s ability to craft radio friendly hits without sacrificing identity.

What made 19 Naughty III so important was its duality. It carried the energy of the streets while embracing melody, hooks and mass appeal. Kay Gee’s production blended funk samples with crisp drums, creating a sound that was both radio ready and rooted in Hip Hop fundamentals.

The early 90s were crowded with heavy hitters, yet Naughty by Nature carved out their own lane. They were not chasing trends. They were building moments. And this album stands as their defining statement.

Thirty three years later, 19 Naughty III remains a time capsule of an era when Hip Hop was expanding commercially but still fiercely protective of its core values. It is proof that you can have hits, sell records and still command respect from purists.

Salute to Naughty by Nature for delivering a project that continues to move crowds, bridge generations and remind the culture what an anthem really sounds like.