The highly touted Southern rap duo Dirty signed with Universal Records in late 2000 in the wake of the South's late-'90s emergence as a major force in the rap game, becoming the first major rap act to arise from Alabama. Originating from Montgomery, group members Big Pimp and Mr. G' Stacka fused quick-firing styles in the tradition of Southern pioneers Outkast with a unique Alabama-style pimp-meets-gangsta disposition and some refreshingly inventive production. With an elegant delivery, they stood above their legions of Dirty South peers, experiencing remarkable popularity in their hometown thanks to their The Pimp and the Gangsta album, which became a regional smash hit when originally released independently by Nfinity Music. Though preceded by their 1999 release, Countryversatile, it was this second album which inspired the hype that led to their signing with Universal. In February 2001, The Pimp and the Gangsta saw national release in a more polished state with new tracks. ~ Jason Birchmeier, All Music Guide