Members
Select a City High band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
City High is an American musical group known for their unique blend of Hip Hop, Contemporary R&B, Alternative Hip Hop, and Hip Hop Soul. Originating from Willingboro, New Jersey, the group consists of Robby Pardlo (piano, vocals, songwriting, arrangement), Ryan Toby (vocals, songwriting, production), and Claudette Ortiz (vocals, rapping). The trio came together when Ortiz joined Pardlo and Toby, forming a cohesive unit characterized by their emotive storytelling and socially conscious lyrics. Their self-titled debut album released in 2001 under Booga Basement/Interscope Records, highlighted their ability to address provocative themes relevant to everyday life experiences.
How to Sound Like City High
City High's sound is characterized by a smooth yet gritty fusion of hip hop beats and soulful melodies. Their production often employs layered vocal harmonies and rhythmic grooves, creating a sound that is both approachable and deeply expressive. To capture City High's essence, one might focus on dynamic vocal interplay and soulful, piano-driven arrangements. The use of warm, analog textures and live instrumentation helps to maintain an organic feel that complements their lyrical depth. Incorporating percussive elements with a blend of digital and acoustic sounds can replicate the vibrant, streetwise energy that defines their music. Overall, City High’s music thrives on a balance of melodic richness and rhythmic complexity, making thoughtful arrangements and emotive delivery key to approximating their style.
