The raw sound of the streets, sharpened by identity, comedy, and fearless conviction on the mic — Detroit’s own D12 (The Dirty Dozen) is a hip-hop collective that reshaped the underground and made a lasting imprint on the global rap scene.
D12’s foundation is rooted in the heart of Detroit. Members Proof (Derty Harry), Kon Artis (Mr. Porter), Kuniva (Rondell Beene), and Eminem (Slim Shady) hailed from the Eastside, while Bizarre (Peter S. Bizarre), Swifty McVay, and Bugz (Robert Beck) represented the Westside. Proof, Kuniva, and Kon Artis were neighborhood friends; Proof met Eminem while battle rapping outside Osborn High. The rest of the crew linked up at the legendary Hip Hop Shop — a cornerstone of Detroit’s rap culture.
Before the music deals, Eminem, Kon Artis, and Kuniva held jobs at Gilbert’s Lounge. But all along, Proof had a vision: to form a supergroup of Detroit’s sharpest MCs from the Hip Hop Shop. That dream became reality with the formation of D12 initially including Bizarre, Kuniva, Kon Artis, Bugz, and Swifty McVay, with Eminem as an early member who later focused on his solo work.
Before stepping away, the group made a pact: whoever made it first would come back for the rest. That moment came with Eminem’s meteoric rise. But tragedy struck in 1999, when Bugz the wild, fearless, and charismatic heart of the group — was tragically murdered. It was Bugz who had recruited Swifty into D12. Following Bugz's passing, Eminem officially rejoined, dedicating his return to carrying on the spirit Bugz brought to the crew.
Bugz’s impact can’t be overstated he was raw, clever, and unfiltered. His voice remains legendary in hip-hop, and his energy still fuels D12’s sound.
In 1998, D12 dropped their first EP, The Underground EP, injecting chaotic brilliance and unrestrained style into Detroit’s underground. From there, they recorded demos in New Jersey and joined Eminem in New York to contribute to The Marshall Mathers LP, featuring on “Under the Influence.” Eminem, energized by the crew’s sound, launched Shady Records and quickly dropped their debut single “Shit On You.” While Proof appeared in the video, he didn’t appear on the track a testament to the group-first mindset.
Their debut album Devil’s Night landed in 2001 and took the charts by storm, hitting top positions in the U.S. and U.K. What followed was a whirlwind of global tours and iconic performances, building a worldwide fanbase of loyal “Dertyheadz.”
A blend of underground grit and commercial breakthrough, D12’s legacy includes numerous awards and nominations. In 2004, the crew took home Best Hip Hop Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards, Best Video at the MTV Music Awards, and Best Rap Artist at the Teen Choice Awards. Their massive single “My Band” earned MTV nominations for Best Rap Video, Best Group Video, and Video of the Year, along with a Best Group nod overall.
In their hometown, D12 earned nods at the Detroit Music Awards, including Best Hip Hop Artist (Urban/Funk/Hip Hop) in 2001, and Outstanding National Single for “Purple Hills” in 2002. In 2005, they received four nominations, including Outstanding National Major Label Recording for D12 World, and two video nods for “My Band” and “40 Oz.”
Following the devastating death of Proof in 2006, the group’s mission shifted not only to uphold their sound and legacy, but to honor Proof’s influence, artistry, and leadership. His vision built D12. His memory drives it.
To this day, D12 remains a symbol of Detroit resilience, lyrical excellence, and brotherhood. From underground champions to mainstream legends their voice, style, and fearlessness continue to inspire.
Legends Never Die. D12 Lives Forever
