The Force MDs: How a Chance Encounter on the Staten Island Ferry Launched a Career
The Force MDs formed in 1981 in Staten Island, mixing doo-wop harmonies with hip-hop and prefiguring new jack swing
“The Force MDs: How a Chance Encounter on the Staten Island Ferry Launched a Career” is a rare, raw conversation between BIG CED and founding members Kahlil Lundy and Stevie D Lundy of the legendary Force MDs, along with newest member Zieme. They break down the untold story of how R&B and hip-hop first merged in the streets of the Bronx and Staten Island — from the group’s days as a ferry-performing doo-wop act called The LDs to their pivotal audition with Tommy Boy Records (The Industry Cosign).
The central “chance encounter”: radio legend Mr. Magic discovered the LDs singing on the Staten Island Ferry, which set the whole career in motion. At the Tommy Boy audition, execs were blown away by their singing — then stunned when they rapped, a moment the members call one of the first true fusions of R&B and hip-hop.
The Force MDs formed in 1981 in Staten Island, mixing doo-wop harmonies with hip-hop and prefiguring new jack swing — hits include “Tears,” “Tender Love,” and “Love Is a House.” The ferry was genuinely their training ground: members have said they’d mimic Sam Cooke, the Temptations, and Stevie Wonder performing for ferry passengers, which shaped their stage show (JET Magazine). After Mr. Magic’s discovery, the group signed with Tommy Boy in 1984, the same year they became the Force MDs — “M.D.” standing for Musical Diversity.
- The ferry encounter: Legendary WBLS DJ Mr. Magic discovered them as the LDs while they were singing on the Staten Island Ferry (The Industry Cosign, Ambrosia For Heads).
- Early days: From Bronx River parties to Afrika Bambaataa embracing them as the first group from Staten Island in the early scene, and supporting them through the name change to “Force.”
- The Tommy Boy audition: They blew the label away singing first — then stunned everyone when they started rapping. Mr. Magic realized he had “two groups in one room,” a pivotal moment in the birth of R&B/hip-hop fusion.
- Mighty Mike C’s role: His crucial recommendation to Mr. Magic helped open the door.
- Becoming the Force MDs: “MDs” stands for “Musical Diversity,” reflecting their signature blend of doo-wop-style harmonies, beatboxing, and rap over hip-hop beats — a style that made them forerunners of new jack swing.
- Legacy and credit: They discuss not always getting credit as pioneers, being a stepping stone for other acts, and passing the torch to the new generation.
