Rolling Stone Music Now
How De La Soul Changed the World
Jan 13, 2025
Marcus J. Moore, author of "High and Rising," shares insights into the influential journey of Long Island hip-hop legends De La Soul. He discusses their groundbreaking debut album, the misunderstandings they faced, and the emotional complexities within the music industry. The conversation shifts to their unique formation and innovative sound, the evolution of their artistry, and the impact of their work on perceptions of race in hip-hop. Moore emphasizes De La Soul's legacy of promoting diversity and creativity in a challenging commercial landscape.
46:04
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Quick takeaways
- De La Soul challenged hip-hop's hyper-masculine norms by expressing affection and individuality, influencing future artists to embrace uniqueness.
- Their evolution as holistic artists showcases a diverse discography, reflecting their growth and innovative musical experimentation beyond their debut album.
Deep dives
De La Soul's Legacy in Hip-Hop
De La Soul is recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to hip-hop by showcasing an alternative approach to masculinity and creativity within the genre. They broke the mold set by their contemporaries, who often conformed to hyper-masculine norms, thus demonstrating that it was acceptable to express affection and individuality in a public space. Their eclectic sampling choices ranged from Hall and Oates to Johnny Cash, pushing boundaries of what hip-hop could sound like while challenging conventional tropes. This daring nature paved the way for future artists, including Common and Tyler, the Creator, to embrace their uniqueness in music.
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