Flipmode Squad - Everybody On The Line (BUSTA RHYMES)

What this video is

Released September 1998 as part of Flipmode Squad's debut album The Imperial on Elektra/Violator Records, 'Everybody On The Line Outside' arrived at a pivotal moment in hip-hop: the post-Notorious B.I.G. commercial vacuum had opened space for second-tier East Coast collectives to claim mainstream visibility. Flipmode Squad — Busta Rhymes's crew comprising Rampage, Lord Have Mercy, Rah Digga, Spliff Star, and Baby…

Why it matters

Represents the apex of the late-90s posse-cut video format — multi-MC ensemble performances built around a dominant frontman (Busta Rhymes) with supporting crew members given distinct verse-tied screen time. The track and video helped codify the Flipmode Squad as a recognizable brand entity within…

The director

Emmy-nominated American filmmaker and co-founder of PRETTYBIRD production company. Graduated from Cal State Northridge with a degree in Radio, TV & Film. Entered music videos in 1995; by 1998 was a leading hip-hop video director. The Washington Post (2004)…