A Tribe Called Quest

Definition

A Tribe Called Quest is a legendary hip hop group formed in 1985, known for their innovative sound that blends jazz, funk, and thoughtful lyrics. Their work played a pivotal role in shaping alternative hip hop during the genre's golden age, highlighting social issues while maintaining a cool, laid-back vibe that resonated with audiences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Their debut album, 'People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm,' released in 1990, was groundbreaking for its use of jazz samples and laid-back beats.
2. A Tribe Called Quest is recognized for their socially conscious lyrics that address themes such as race, identity, and community.
3. The group's second album, 'The Low End Theory,' is often hailed as one of the greatest hip hop albums of all time, further establishing their influence on the genre.
4. They were known for their unique style, featuring Q-Tip's smooth flow and Phife Dawg's sharp delivery, which complemented each other perfectly.
5. 'Can I Kick It?' and 'Scenario' are two of their most iconic tracks that showcase their ability to blend catchy hooks with meaningful content.

Review Questions

• How did A Tribe Called Quest contribute to the evolution of hip hop during its formative years?
  • A Tribe Called Quest played a crucial role in the evolution of hip hop by infusing jazz and funk elements into their music, setting them apart from more mainstream rap acts. Their unique sound appealed to a wider audience while also maintaining a focus on socially conscious themes. They helped pave the way for other artists to explore diverse musical influences within hip hop, contributing to the genre's artistic growth during its early years.
• In what ways did A Tribe Called Quest embody the principles of the Native Tongues collective?
  • A Tribe Called Quest embodied the principles of the Native Tongues collective through their emphasis on positive messages and Afrocentric themes in their lyrics. Their music often addressed social issues like racism and identity while promoting unity and understanding among listeners. By collaborating with other members of the Native Tongues collective, they fostered a sense of community within hip hop that valued creativity and diversity over commercialism.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of A Tribe Called Quest on modern hip hop and how their legacy continues to influence artists today.
  • A Tribe Called Quest has left a lasting impact on modern hip hop through their innovative blending of genres and emphasis on lyrical depth. Their approach to music inspired countless artists who seek to balance commercial success with artistic integrity. Many contemporary musicians continue to sample their work or cite them as an influence, showcasing how A Tribe Called Quest's legacy lives on in today's hip hop landscape, which still grapples with issues of social justice and cultural identity.

Related terms

Hip Hop: A cultural movement that emerged in the 1970s in the Bronx, characterized by four key elements: rapping, DJing, graffiti art, and breakdancing.

Jazz Rap: A subgenre of hip hop that incorporates jazz elements, such as live instrumentation and sampling of jazz records, often promoting introspective or socially conscious themes.

Native Tongues: A collective of hip hop artists that emerged in the late 1980s, known for promoting Afrocentricity and positive messages in their music, of which A Tribe Called Quest was a key member.