Why the Fun Lovin’ Criminals Matter
My taste in music is eclectic.
I like selected songs, musicians, and bands from almost all genres of music, and sometimes, I find myself hating songs that I used to enjoy.
That being said, one of my longstanding favorite bands is Fun Lovin’ Criminals.
How did the Band Form, and how have they Evolved
Fun Lovin’ Criminals was formed in 1993 in New York City out of the friendship of Huey Morgan, Brian Leiser, and Steve Borgovini. Over time, the band has undergone lineup changes, affecting its development and the types of songs it has written and performed.
Although some people categorize them as a rap rock band—probably because some of their early songs sampled clips from movies and other cultural references—I consider them primarily a rock and roll band with a unique edge.
Their music has evolved from one song to another and from one album to the next. They’ve played funk (e.g., “Walking Tall”), rock (e.g., “The Grave and Constant”), Reggae (e.g., “Smoke Em”), etc.
Why are they one of my favorite musical groups?
While their name serendipitously aligns with my primary research specializations (e.g., crime, criminal justice, and street culture), my connection to their music goes deeper.
Although I’ve tried to see them perform live and encouraged others to do so while playing in their area, my connection to them is solely through their recorded work.
Their playful music blends rock, groove, and dance-like rhythms that resonate with me.
Their lyrics blend storytelling, wry humor, street sensibilities, and culture, capturing the gritty and playful essence of New York City, where I once lived and have spent considerable time, including conducting research.
Favorite Tracks and Storytelling
Just because I enjoy the band, not every song they’ve written and performed resonates with me. For example, tracks like “Scooby Snacks” and “Love Unlimited” feel too cute.
Similarly, I don’t like their cover songs (e.g., “We Have All the Time in the World,” “I’m Not in Love,” and “Crazy Train”) because they feel less distinct than All the Time in the World,” “I’ their original pieces.
In contrast, songs like “Sugar,” “We Have All the Time in the World,” “King of the World,” and “Up on the Hill” are staples on my playlists. What draws me to these tracks isn’t just the rhythm, instrumentation, or lyrical wit but the storytelling—they have a strong emotional pull that sets them apart from others in their catalog.
Most of their songs are vivid narratives that capture interesting cultural and historical moments.
These songs also interpret the complexities and contradictions of urban life and the relationships among people who work, visit, and live in it.
Their storytelling ability was highlighted when one of their songs (“King of New York”) was featured in an episode of the FX series Billions.
A Distinctly New York Sound and Lyrics
What I love most about Fun Lovin’ Criminals is their distinctly New York flavor (e.g., “Hot City Nights”). Although other musicians (e.g., Alicia Keys, Lou Reed, Jay-Z, Nas, The Notorious B.I.G., etc.) and bands (e.g., Beastie Boys, The Ramones, and The Velvet Underground, etc.) have selected songs about the city, few like Fun Lovin’ Criminals do this consistently and meaningfully.
More specifically, their music feels like a snapshot of the city, effectively capturing a sense of urban place, and this connection to New York’s character is one of the reasons their music resonates so deeply with me.
Final Thoughts
Fun Lovin’ Criminals are, in essence, storytellers who channel the spirit of a city into music that is as dynamic and multifaceted as New York itself.
Through their narratives, rhythms, and wit, they have created a work that engages and inspires listeners.
Their music isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a soundtrack to a deeper understanding of New York City’s urban life, relationships, and culture.
Someday, I hope to experience their live energy, amplifying everything I appreciate about their music.
Photo Credit:
Title: Fun Lovin’ Criminals 2024
Photographer: FGD Photography
