Attrell Cordes, better known by his stage name Prince Be, was born on May 15, 1970, in Jersey City, New Jersey. He grew up alongside his brother, Jarrett Cordes, who would later become his P.M. Dawn collaborator. Their stepfather, George Brown, was a member of the renowned music group Kool and the Gang, exposing the Cordes brothers to music from a young age.
During his early teenage years, Prince Be discovered his passion for music. He began honing his songwriting skills and exploring the art of DJing. It was during this time that he developed a love for hip hop and started envisioning a career in the music industry.
Prince Be's journey to fame began when he decided to pursue his musical aspirations. With determination and dedication, he used money he had earned working as a security guard to record P.M. Dawn's demo tape. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
Together with his brother, Jarrett Cordes, Prince Be formed the music group P.M. Dawn. The duo's unique blend of hip hop, R&B, and pop sensibilities quickly caught the attention of music lovers. Their debut album, "Of the Heart, of the Soul and of the Cross: The Utopian Experience," was released in 1991 and became a certified U.S. Gold album.
Prince Be's impact on the music industry continued to grow as P.M. Dawn released more hits. One of their most notable singles, "Set Adrift on Memory Bliss," reached number 1 on the charts in both the United States and New Zealand. The song's success solidified Prince Be's reputation as a talented artist with a unique sound.
Another of P.M. Dawn's popular tracks, "I'd Die Without You," climbed to number 3 on the U.S. charts, further showcasing Prince Be's lyrical prowess and melodic creativity. The group's success led to more opportunities to collaborate with other artists and expand their musical horizons.
Despite his success in the music industry, Prince Be remained grounded and connected to his roots. He continued to draw inspiration from his upbringing in New Jersey and the influence of his stepfather's musical career. Prince Be's commitment to his artistry and creative vision paved the way for future generations of hip hop musicians.
Throughout his career, Prince Be collaborated with various artists and contributed to the evolution of hip hop and R&B music. His innovative approach to songwriting and production set him apart as a trailblazer in the industry. Prince Be's legacy as a pioneering artist and influential figure in music lives on, inspiring fans and fellow musicians alike.