In the early 2000s, St. Louis transformed from a quiet Midwest city into a booming epicenter of hip-hop culture. Leading that charge was a crew that embodied hometown pride, slick charisma, and a party-starting energy that was impossible to ignore: the St. Lunatics. While Nelly became the most recognizable name from the collective—thanks to his chart-smashing debut Country Grammar—it was the full group dynamic that gave the Lunatics their edge and staying power.
Formed in the late 1990s, the St. Lunatics—comprised of Nelly, Murphy Lee, Kyjuan, Ali, and City Spud—had a chemistry that felt authentic, effortless, and uniquely St. Louis. Their 2001 album Free City was a love letter to their hometown, a celebration of camaraderie and resilience that resonated nationwide. Murphy Lee, with his witty wordplay and laid-back delivery, emerged as a standout talent, later releasing his own platinum-certified solo album Murphy’s Law. Kyjuan brought a sharp energy and clever lyricism to the mix, becoming a fan favorite for his animated style and strong presence both on stage and in the booth.
Beyond the hits like “Midwest Swing” and “Batter Up,” the Lunatics helped define an era. Their rise brought attention not only to St. Louis but to Midwest rap as a whole, paving the way for future artists to dream bigger. They injected fun into hip-hop without sacrificing skill, and they made sure their success always reflected the city they came from.
Murphy Lee and Kyjuan appeared on the Midwest Mixtape Podcast, offering fans a nostalgic deep-dive into the glory days, the creative process behind their music, and their ongoing contributions to the culture that first embraced them. Their appearance reminded listeners that while trends may change, the Lunatics’ impact on hip-hop—and on St. Louis—remains timeless.
The Barn 