Formed in 1998 by DJ Gismo (born Ismo Lappalainen) and B.O.W. (short for "Brothers of the Words"; born Raymond Ebanks), the Finnish hip-hop/electro-funk/house outfit burst into the local pop music scene in 1999 with the release of their first smash, "Freestyler." After climbing charts in Finland, Denmark, and Germany, "Freestyler" became the biggest European-selling single of the year 2000. In addition, Bomfunk MC's were voted the Best Nordic Act at the annual MTV Europe Music Awards. Their debut album, titled In Stereo, promoted with live performances including an acclaimed breakdance show, featured the chart-topping "Uprocking Beats" and "B-Boys & Flygirls." In 2002, Bomfunk MC's returned with their second full-lenght record called Burnin' Sneakers. ~ Drago Bonacich