Best De La Soul Songs of All Time - Top 10 Timeless Hip-Hop Masterpieces
by B Kishwar | Updated Dec 12, 2023
Top 10 Best De La Soul Songs of All Time
1
Buddy (Native Tongue Decision)
1989
2
Eye Know
1989
3
Ring Ring Ring (Ha Ha Hey)
1991
4
Keepin' the Faith
1991
5
"I Am I Be" feat. Maceo Parker, et al.
1993
6
Stakes Is High
1996
7
All Good? feat. Chaka Khan
2000
8
Trying People
2001
9
Rock Co.Kane Flow feat. MF Doom
2004
10
Royalty Capes
2016
S.No
Best De La Soul Songs of All Time
Year
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Top 10 Best De La Soul Songs of All Time
De La Soul, the influential hip-hop trio known for their clever wordplay, quirky sense of humor, and innovative use of samples, has left an indelible mark on the genre. With the recent availability of their early classics on digital streaming platforms, fans can now explore the depth of their catalog. Billboard has curated a list of the "Top 10 Best De La Soul Songs of All Time," showcasing the trio's finest works that span across different albums and eras. From the iconic "Buddy (Native Tongue Decision)" to the soulful "Eye Know" and the introspective "Stakes Is High," this collection celebrates the unique contributions of Posdnuos, Trugoy the Dove, and Maseo to the world of hip-hop. Join us on a musical journey through the standout tracks that define De La Soul's enduring legacy.
1. Buddy (Native Tongue Decision)
"Buddy (Native Tongue Decision)" stands as a cornerstone in De La Soul's discography, representing the epitome of collaboration within the Native Tongues collective. Released in 1989 as part of their debut album "3 Feet High and Rising," the track features a star-studded lineup, including Q-Tip, Phife Dawg, Queen Latifah, Monie Love, and Jungle Brothers.
The song's infectious groove and playful lyrics capture the essence of friendship with benefits, and Trugoy takes the lead with his charismatic delivery. The extended seven-minute remix showcases the seamless blend of styles from each contributing artist, creating a timeless piece that not only defined an era but also solidified the magic of the Native Tongues movement.
2. Eye Know
As one of the standout tracks from their debut album "3 Feet High and Rising" in 1989, "Eye Know" exemplifies De La Soul's early mastery of sampling and creative production. Produced by the legendary Prince Paul, the song weaves together diverse samples, including elements from Otis Redding, The Mad Lads, Lee Dorsey, and Steely Dan.
The result is a joyful and uplifting love song that showcases Posdnuos and Trugoy's lyrical prowess. The clever use of samples, combined with the laid-back vibe, contributed to the song's critical acclaim and enduring popularity, making "Eye Know" a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans.
3. Ring Ring Ring (Ha Ha Hey)
Released in 1991 as a single from the album "De La Soul Is Dead," "Ring Ring Ring (Ha Ha Hey)" showcases De La Soul's ability to blend funky beats with socially conscious lyrics. The track revolves around the theme of artists being hassled to listen to demo tapes, a common experience in the hip-hop scene.
The song's infectious groove is built around an obscure 1981 disco track by The Whatnauts. Pos, Trugoy, and Maseo deliver witty and humorous verses, capturing the East Coast hip-hop vibe of the early '90s. With its catchy chorus and clever wordplay, "Ring Ring Ring (Ha Ha Hey)" remains a standout track that reflects the wit and creativity of De La Soul.
4. Keepin' the Faith
"Keepin' the Faith" is a standout track from De La Soul's 1991 album, "De La Soul Is Dead." Produced by Prince Paul, the song is a masterclass in sample layering, featuring snippets from ten different songs, including Aerosmith's "Walk This Way," Bob Marley's "Could You Be Loved," and "Just A Touch Of Love" by Slave.
The result is an infectious and unstoppable groove that serves as the backdrop for Posdnuos and Trugoy's dynamic verses. The lyrics reflect on the challenges of staying true to oneself in the face of societal expectations and the ever-evolving landscape of the hip-hop industry. "Keepin' the Faith" showcases De La Soul's ability to seamlessly blend diverse musical elements while delivering thought-provoking content.
5. I Am I Be" feat. Maceo Parker, et al.
"I Am I Be" is a poignant track from De La Soul's 1993 album, "Buhloone Mindstate." Featuring contributions from iconic horn players Maceo Parker, Fred Wesley, and Pee-Wee Ellis, the song explores themes of unity, honesty, and the challenges of maintaining relationships.
Set against a jazzy backdrop, the lyrics delve into the complexities of friendship and loyalty within the Native Tongues crew, addressing the fractures that can occur when individuals pursue their own paths. The collaboration with the legendary JB Horns adds a layer of sophistication to the track, elevating it to a soulful and introspective piece that stands out in De La Soul's discography.
6. Stakes Is High
"Stakes Is High" is the title track from De La Soul's 1996 album, a pivotal release that marked a departure from their earlier, more lighthearted sound. Produced by the renowned J Dilla, the song features Trugoy delivering a memorable verse expressing frustration with the state of the hip-hop industry and societal issues. The track's powerful message is amplified by a sample from Ahmad Jamal's "Swahililand," adding a touch of urgency and resonance.
"Stakes Is High" is often celebrated for its social commentary, addressing topics such as drug addiction, materialism, and the commodification of the genre. The song's impact extends beyond its musical qualities, as it reflects De La Soul's willingness to engage with the pressing issues of their time, making it a lasting and relevant piece of their discography.
7. All Good? feat. Chaka Khan
"All Good?" featuring the legendary Chaka Khan is a standout track from De La Soul's fifth album, Art Official Intelligence: Mosaic Thump (2000). The song showcases a seamless blend of De La Soul's distinctive lyricism and Chaka Khan's soulful vocals. Despite the pessimistic chorus, the track finds Pos and Trugoy in top lyrical form, navigating through a funky De La beat.
Chaka Khan's powerful voice adds a layer of authenticity to the song, creating a memorable collaboration that resonates with both hip-hop and R&B enthusiasts. "All Good?" not only demonstrates De La Soul's ability to evolve their sound but also highlights their knack for bringing in genuine musical royalty to enhance their sonic palette.
In terms of chart performance, "All Good?" achieved success, reaching No. 96 on the Hot 100, No. 6 on Hot Rap Songs, and No. 41 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. The song's ability to seamlessly merge the worlds of hip-hop and soul reflects De La Soul's commitment to pushing creative boundaries and solidifying their status as innovators within the genre.
8. Trying People
"Trying People" is the poignant final track on the second installment of the Art Official Intelligence trilogy, titled AOI: Bionix (2001). In this emotionally charged song, Trugoy delivers verses that showcase a level of vulnerability uncommon in the rap game at the time. Opening up about the passage of time, Trugoy reflects on life's challenges, admitting, "Years just blow by, my eyes stay fixed but the picture’s kinda outta focus."
The sincerity and emotional depth displayed on "Trying People" mark it as a unique and introspective piece within De La Soul's discography. The honesty of Trugoy's narrative undoubtedly paved the way for subsequent artists like Lil Wayne and Kendrick Lamar to explore personal and emotional themes within their own work. With its introspective lyrics and evocative production, "Trying People" stands as a testament to De La Soul's ability to connect with listeners on a profound level.
9. Rock Co.Kane Flow feat. MF Doom
"Rock Co.Kane Flow" stands as a notable collaboration between De La Soul and the enigmatic MF Doom, featuring on their 2004 album, "The Grind Date." The track is a sonic masterpiece, showcasing the seamless synergy between Doom's intricate rhymes and De La Soul's distinctive flow.
Produced by Seattle's Jake One, the beat is a hallelujah to hip-hop, with each artist leaving an indelible mark on the track. MF Doom's unique delivery and wordplay complement the vibrant energy brought by De La Soul, making "Rock Co.Kane Flow" a standout in both artists' discographies. The song serves as a testament to the creative possibilities that emerge when innovative minds come together in the world of hip-hop, leaving a lasting impression on listeners.
10. Royalty Capes
"Royalty Capes" is a significant track from De La Soul's 2016 album, "And The Anonymous Nobody…," marking their return after a 12-year hiatus between albums. The song not only signifies the trio's comeback but also pays tribute to the late Trugoy (David Jude Jolicoeur) following his congestive heart failure diagnosis.
The track is characterized by majestic trumpets that announce De La Soul's triumphant return to the music scene. Beyond its musical excellence, the accompanying video, prefaced by Dave detailing Trugoy's health struggles, adds a layer of emotional depth to the song. "Royalty Capes" serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and creative brilliance of De La Soul, making it a standout track in their extensive and influential discography.
Explore the Origins and Impact of De La Soul in the World of Hip-Hop.
De La Soul, formed in Long Island in 1987, emerged during a transformative period in hip-hop marked by the genre's diversification and experimentation. Comprising members Posdnuos (Kelvin Mercer), Trugoy the Dove (David Jude Jolicoeur), and Maseo (Vincent Mason), the trio quickly became known for their distinctive approach to rap music. Their debut album, "3 Feet High and Rising" (1989), was groundbreaking, introducing a fresh, eclectic sound that defied the prevailing norms of the time. Drawing inspiration from a wide array of musical genres, including jazz, soul, and funk, De La Soul's sampling techniques and intricate lyrics set them apart.
De La Soul's impact on hip-hop extends beyond their musical innovations. They were pioneers in promoting a positive and conscious image, diverging from the prevalent gangsta rap narratives. The trio, part of the Native Tongues collective, embraced a playful and whimsical aesthetic, coining the term "D.A.I.S.Y. Age" (Da Inner Sound, Y'all) to encapsulate their ethos. This departure from the more serious tone of their contemporaries contributed to a shift in the perception of what hip-hop could be, emphasizing creativity, individuality, and social awareness.
Furthermore, De La Soul's advocacy for artistic freedom faced challenges as they navigated the complex landscape of the music industry. Sample clearance issues and disputes with their forog on digital platforms for years. Despite these challenges, De La Soul's resilience and commitment to their craft have solidified their status as enduring figures in hip-hop. Their influence can be traced through generations, as they continue to inspire artists to push boundaries and challenge conventions within the genre.
Top 10 Best De La Soul Songs of All Time - FAQs
De La Soul's first six albums, including the classic "3 Feet High and Rising," were largely inaccessible on digital platforms until 2021 due to sample clearance issues and industry hurdles.
"Royalty Capes" from the album "And The Anonymous Nobody…" is the lead single that marked De La Soul's return in 2016, featuring majestic trumpets and announcing their comeback.
Trugoy passed away on February 12, 2023, at the age of 54. Before his death, he faced congestive heart failure, as detailed in the prefaced video of the song "Royalty Capes."
"Rock Co.Kane Flow" is a standout collaboration with MF Doom featured on De La Soul's 2004 album, "The Grind Date."
"Buddy (Native Tongue Decision)" from 1989 remains iconic for its collaboration with other hip-hop legends like A Tribe Called Quest, Jungle Brothers, Queen Latifah, and Monie Love, showcasing the unity of the Native Tongues crew.