Manik Mondaze Crew:

Del Presents Manik Mondaze

Fanatik onBEATS: Producer

Fanatik onBEATS is a pioneering Bay Area hip-hop producer whose career spans nearly three decades, evolving from raw, vinyl-era beginnings to cutting-edge digital releases. Hailing from San Jose, California, he emerged in the mid-90s with seminal projects that have left an indelible mark on the underground hip-hop scene.

Early Career and Stones Throw Records

In 1996, Fanatik released Phanatik Beats, a groundbreaking double LP that holds the distinction of being the first full-length instrumental album on Stones Throw Records. This project showcased his talent for crafting sample-rich, boom-bap-driven beats that resonated with hip-hop purists and set a precedent for instrumental hip-hop records. citeturn0search2

Collaborations with Planet Asia

Fanatik played a pivotal role in introducing and shaping the career of Fresno-based rapper Planet Asia. Their collaboration began with the Planet Asia EP, released on May 28, 1998, under Heratik Productions. This EP featured tracks like "On The Corner (Part 1)," "Handlin Business," and "Cali Breeze," blending Fanatik's innovative beats with Planet Asia's compelling lyricism. citeturn0search1

Further solidifying their partnership, Fanatik and Planet Asia teamed up with rapper Murs for the Berkeley Freestyles 1998, a collection of raw, unfiltered sessions recorded straight to tape on Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley, California. This project captured the spontaneous energy and creativity of the trio, offering a glimpse into the vibrant Bay Area hip-hop scene of the late '90s. citeturn0search5

Continued Evolution and Digital Presence

Throughout his career, Fanatik has consistently evolved his sound, embracing modern technologies while staying true to his underground roots. His Bandcamp page features a continually expanding catalog, including recent releases like Do Dis EP (October 2023), They're Your Mirror Too (May 2024), It's Magic (August 2024), and The Start of Everything (October 2024). Each project reflects his commitment to innovation and the craft of beat-making.

Active on Instagram (@fanatikonbeats), Fanatik regularly shares behind-the-scenes glimpses into his creative process, live sessions, and collaborations with fellow artists. By seamlessly blending vintage influences with modern innovation, Fanatik onBEATS not only preserves the authentic essence of hip-hop but also redefines its future, cementing his legacy as both a respected veteran and a dynamic, ever-evolving force in the scene.