What Are the Top 10 De La Soul Albums?

Each album De La Soul has dropped over the years is a testament to their unyielding creativity, dynamic lyricism, and the fearless embrace of their authentic selves. But among these jewels, which shine the brightest? 

10. “Art Official Intelligence: Mosaic Thump” (2000)

As the dawn of a new millennium approached, De La Soul unveiled the ambitious "Art Official Intelligence: Mosaic Thump." With production from Jay Dee, Rockwilder, and their own Posdnuos, the Long Island trio concocted a sound both familiar and fresh. They even enlisted the talents of diverse collaborators, from Redman to Chaka Khan.

9. “And the Anonymous Nobody…” (2016)

The year 2016 marked a significant return for De La Soul with "And the Anonymous Nobody… ," a crowdfunded masterpiece that demonstrated their ability to seamlessly evolve with the times. Working alongside a varied array of artists such as Snoop Dogg, Little Dragon, Usher, and Damon Albarn, the trio ventured into diverse sonic territories, bridging hip-hop with elements of rock, jazz, and soul. Still, the essence of De La Soul remained intact: introspective lyricism, socially conscious themes, and an undying urge to push creative boundaries. 

8. “AOI: Bionix” (2001)

On the heels of their prior year's release, De La Soul returned with "AOI: Bionix," the second installment of their “Art Official Intelligence” series. With this album, the trio delved even deeper into experimentation, with collaborators like Cee-Lo Green and B-Real and producers like Jay Dee and Supa Dave West. Seamlessly weaving tales of love, introspection, and societal observations, "Bionix" showcases De La Soul's unparalleled ability to maintain their foundational hip-hop roots while still experimenting with their sound.

7. “De La Soul’s Plug 1 & Plug 2 Present … First Serve” (2012)

"De La Soul’s Plug 1 & Plug 2 Present … First Serve" wasn't just another chapter in the De La discography — it was a departure, a unique narrative-driven project. Anchored by Posdnuos (Plug 1) and Trugoy the Dove (Plug 2), the record details the highs and lows of a fictional hip-hop duo named First Serve. Produced primarily by French duo Chokolate and Khalid, the album melds De La Soul's signature lyrical prowess with eclectic, funk-laden vibes.

6. “The Grind Date” (2004)

"The Grind Date" was De La Soul's salute to the resilience of hip-hop and their place in the game. From soulful hooks to gritty beats crafted by esteemed producers like Madlib, J Dilla, and Supa Dave West, the album tackles themes of industry politics and personal evolution with unflinching candor. With standout tracks like "Rock Co.Kane Flow," featuring MF Doom, and "It's Like That," "The Grind Date" reconfirmed De La Soul’s status as vanguards of lyrical prowess and innovative sound in the ever-evolving hip-hop scene.

5. “Are You In?” (2009)

In 2009, De La Soul delivered a gem with "Are You In? Nike+ Original Run." Conceived as a soundtrack for Nike's running series, it's a continuous, groovy mix that underscores the trio's adaptability and penchant for experimentation. Seamlessly transitioning between hip-hop, funk, and electronic vibes, the album is a testament to De La Soul’s ability to merge their distinct sound with innovative projects.

4. “3 Feet High and Rising” (1989)

Bursting onto the scene with vibrant samples, kaleidoscopic sounds from Prince Paul, and a playful, introspective lyricism, this album was an antithesis to the era's prevailing machismo and street-centric narratives. Tracks like "Me Myself and I" and "Potholes in My Lawn" are both testaments to the trio's fresh take on individuality and self-acceptance. With this debut album, De La Soul didn't just introduce themselves; they reshaped what it meant to be cool, quirky, and authentically yourself in the hip-hop sphere.

3. “Buhloone Mindstate” (1993)

"Buhloone Mindstate" was a firm detour from the mainstream. Drenched in jazz-infused beats and profound introspection, this project stands as a testament to the group's insistence on evolution and growth. Collaborations with jazz great Maceo Parker and the profound impact of tracks like "I Am I Be" showcased the trio's depth and the breadth of their artistic vision. "Buhloone Mindstate" isn't just an album — it's De La Soul's declaration that their art was never meant to inflate, just elevate.

2. “Stakes Is High” (1996)

“Stakes Is High” found De La Soul navigating a hip-hop landscape in transition, offering a poignant critique of the genre's commercialization and the societal issues of the time. With its minimalist, jazz-tinged beats provided by the likes of the legendary J Dilla, this album is a departure from their earlier, more playful sound. Tracks like "Itsoweezee" and the title track "Stakes Is High" capture the raw essence of their message. This project is a bold reminder of the group's ability to reinvent themselves while holding fast to their foundational principles.

1. “De La Soul Is Dead” (1991)

Released in 1991, "De La Soul Is Dead" saw the Long Island trio pushing back against the "hippie" label that had been thrust upon them after their debut. Taking a more satirical route, this album wittily dissects the increasing materialism and violence in hip-hop, even as it remains rooted in the group's unique blend of humor, storytelling, and socially conscious lyricism.

What Is the Most Popular De La Soul Album?

While De La Soul has released numerous significant albums throughout their career, it's widely acknowledged that “3 Feet High and Rising” remains their most iconic. With its playful, innovative sampling, courtesy of producer Prince Paul, and its quirky, insightful lyrics, the album was refreshing. Songs like "Me Myself and I" became anthems of individuality. While other classic albums from De La Soul have enjoyed acclaim and commercial success, “3 Feet High and Rising” holds a special place in their catalog.

De La Soul’s Influence Today

New York-born De La Soul wasn't just a moment in hip-hop; they were the architects of an enduring legacy. Their hip-hop albums stood out with their eccentricity, colorful samples, and lyrical depth. Their authenticity made it cool to be different, and their music became the soundtrack for folks who dared to challenge the norm. Today, their influence remains palpable. In a world of ever-evolving music trends, the timeless message of being true to yourself that De La Soul championed continues to resonate, ensuring their place in hip-hop history and the music industry.

Sources:

Image 1 from Artists Influenced by De La Soul | BET

How De La Soul Made It Acceptable for Rappers to Be Themselves | The Culture Crypt

How intellectual hippies, De La Soul, became legends of Hip Hop | Goldmine Magazine

​​A Guide To Getting Into De La Soul | Okayplayer

60 minutes proving De La Soul is one of hip-hop’s greats—but its legacy is in danger | A.V. Club

De La Soul is Alive: A Breakdown of the Trio's Impact | Boardroom