The Hip Hop Hoodios first emerged with their debut EP, Raza Hoodio, back in 2002. With this debut, the Hoodios embraced the task of exposing the world to the often-overlooked Latino Jewish community. In their album-length follow-up, Agua Pa’ La Gente, the Hoodios continue their effort to educate people about their rich heritage while at the same time launching an attack on the music and entertainment industry.
The album opens with the title track, a no-punches-pulled assault on the corporate music industry that continually hikes up prices for music and fails to pass on benefits to the artists. There is also a vague jab at Dr. Dre and his protÈgÈ Eminem here, almost certainly intended as criticism of Dre and Eminem for falling in line with the music industry’s efforts to end music downloading (Dre, a multimillionaire, once complained about needing money so he could send his kids to college. Puh-leeze!). In an effort to show they practice what they preach, the Hoodios released this album through a small independent label for $11.98—with a money-back guarantee, no less.
The Hoodios’ concern (or disdain) for the industry is also apparent on “Nose Jobs,” in which they criticize celebrities for excessive plastic surgery, a sore spot for the Hoodios who take pride in exaggerated noses. They are additionally troubled by the image this sends young people, and they call upon celebrities to be better role models.