#65 3 Feet High and RisingDe La Soul

Genres: Art rap, progressive rap, jazz rap, psychedelic hip hop, sampledelia

Description

"3 Feet High and Rising" by De La Soul addresses themes of individuality, creativity, and social consciousness. Released during the late 1980s, this album combines playful and inventive lyrics with rich, eclectic sampling, significant in De La Soul's music. Each track conveys a sense of humor, social awareness, and a willingness to push the boundaries of traditional hip-hop.

Background

After forming in high school, De La Soul evolved into a pioneering force with members Posdnuos, Trugoy the Dove, and Maseo leading the charge. The trio's unique style caught the attention of producer Prince Paul, leading to a record deal and their groundbreaking debut. With "3 Feet High and Rising," they gained global recognition for their innovative and genre-defying approach to hip-hop.

Notable Tracks

• "Me, Myself and I": A declaration of individualism and resistance against conformity, with a catchy, funk-driven beat.
• "The Magic Number": Celebrates the power of three, seamlessly blending playful rhymes with diverse samples.
• "Buddy": An exploration of friendships and social connections, featuring a smooth, funky rhythm.
• "Say No Go": A powerful anti-drug anthem incorporating samples from Hall & Oates, embodying both uplifting and serious tones.

Reception and Impact

"3 Feet High and Rising" was noted for its groundbreaking use of samples and its departure from the aggressive tone of contemporary rap. It reached number 24 on the Billboard 200 and stayed on the charts for several months. The album's witty lyrics and layered production, featuring the innovative mind of Prince Paul, supported De La Soul's messages. It received critical acclaim, frequently appearing on lists of the greatest albums of all time.

Legacy

"3 Feet High and Rising" remains significant in De La Soul's discography, reflecting the group's fearless creativity and social consciousness. The album paved the way for future hip-hop artists to experiment with genre and style, echoing the promise that hip-hop can be both fun and profound.