A Tribe Called Quest is a legendary hip hop group that emerged from Queens, New York in the late 1980s. The group consists of four members: Q-Tip, Phife Dawg, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, and Jarobi White. They are known for their socially conscious and innovative approach to hip hop music, blending jazz and funk samples with insightful lyrics that addressed issues of race, politics, and social injustice.
A Tribe Called Quest’s music was instrumental in shaping the sound of hip hop in the 1990s, and they are widely regarded as one of the most influential groups in the genre’s history. Their albums, including “People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm,” “The Low End Theory,” and “Midnight Marauders,” are considered classics and continue to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.
The group’s members were also known for their distinctive fashion sense, often wearing colorful and eclectic clothing that reflected their artistic and cultural influences. They were celebrated not only for their music, but also for their positive and inclusive message, which encouraged unity and peace among people of all races and backgrounds.
Despite breaking up in the late 1990s, A Tribe Called Quest’s legacy continues to inspire and influence a new generation of hip hop artists. Their innovative sound and socially conscious lyrics continue to resonate with listeners around the world.
#10 – I Left My Wallet In El Segundo
“I Left My Wallet In El Segundo” is a classic hip hop song by A Tribe Called Quest. Released in 1990, the track tells the story of the group’s road trip to California, during which Q-Tip, the lead rapper, accidentally leaves his wallet in the Los Angeles suburb of El Segundo. The song is characterized by its laid-back, jazzy beat and clever wordplay, and it showcases the group’s unique approach to storytelling in their music. “I Left My Wallet In El Segundo” remains one of A Tribe Called Quest’s most beloved and iconic tracks, and it continues to be celebrated by hip hop fans around the world.
#9 – Oh My God
“Oh My God” is a classic hip-hop song by A Tribe Called Quest, released in 1993. The song features a catchy beat with samples from several other songs, including “Space” by Galt MacDermot and “Keep on Doin’ It” by The New Birth. The lyrics showcase the group’s smooth flow and clever wordplay, touching on themes of fame, success, and their own influence in the music industry. With its infectious hook and vibrant energy, “Oh My God” remains a beloved and influential track in the history of hip-hop, demonstrating A Tribe Called Quest’s enduring impact on the genre.
#8 – Excursions
“Excursions” is a track from A Tribe Called Quest’s iconic second album, “The Low End Theory.” The song features a sample from jazz musician Ronnie Foster’s “Mystic Brew” and sets the tone for the album’s fusion of jazz and hip-hop. The lyrics celebrate the group’s roots and origins in Queens, New York, and pay homage to influential figures in black history, including Muhammad Ali and Louis Armstrong. The track showcases the group’s signature smooth flow and intricate wordplay, while also addressing social and political issues. “Excursions” remains a classic example of Tribe’s unique sound and artistic vision.
#7 – Can I Kick It?
“Can I Kick It?” is a classic hip hop song by A Tribe Called Quest. Released in 1990, the track features a sample of “Walk on the Wild Side” by Lou Reed and a catchy beat that invites listeners to dance along. The song’s lyrics are playful and full of wordplay, as the members of the group take turns showcasing their skills as MCs. “Can I Kick It?” remains one of A Tribe Called Quest’s most popular and recognizable tracks, and its catchy chorus has become an iconic phrase in hip hop culture.
#6 – Award Tour
“Award Tour” is a hit single from A Tribe Called Quest’s third album, “Midnight Marauders.” The song features a funky bassline, catchy chorus, and boasts confident, boastful rhymes from Q-Tip and Phife Dawg. The track serves as a tribute to the group’s rise to success and their ability to transcend boundaries and stereotypes in the music industry. The song references various locations, people, and cultural icons, highlighting the group’s global influence and celebrating their unique style. With its infectious groove and clever lyrics, “Award Tour” remains a fan favorite and a testament to Tribe’s lasting impact on hip-hop.
#5 – Bonita Applebum
“Bonita Applebum” is a classic love song by A Tribe Called Quest, released in 1990. The song features a smooth and mellow beat with a sample from “Daylight” by RAMP, creating a soulful and romantic vibe. The lyrics are an ode to a beautiful woman, with Q-Tip’s smooth flow and Phife Dawg’s playful ad-libs painting a vivid picture of their admiration for her. With its timeless charm and laid-back feel, “Bonita Applebum” is a beloved track in the history of hip-hop and a testament to A Tribe Called Quest’s ability to create music that is both funky and emotionally resonant.
#4 – Jazz (We’ve Got)
“Jazz (We’ve Got)” is a classic track from A Tribe Called Quest’s debut album, “People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm.” The song samples jazz pianist Bob James’ “Take Me to the Mardi Gras” and serves as a tribute to the group’s love for jazz music. The lyrics describe the influence of jazz on hip-hop and its ability to unite people of all races and backgrounds. The track features smooth, laid-back rhymes from Q-Tip and Phife Dawg, emphasizing the group’s signature style and sound. “Jazz (We’ve Got)” remains a timeless classic and a testament to Tribe’s pioneering role in the fusion of jazz and hip-hop.
#3 – Electric Relaxation
“Electric Relaxation” is a classic hip-hop song by A Tribe Called Quest, released in 1993. The song features a mellow and jazzy beat with a sample from Ronnie Foster’s “Mystic Brew”, creating a hypnotic and relaxed vibe. The lyrics are a tribute to the pleasures of seduction and romance, with Q-Tip and Phife Dawg’s smooth verses weaving together playful wordplay and romantic imagery. With its lush production and sultry atmosphere, “Electric Relaxation” is a standout track in A Tribe Called Quest’s discography and a quintessential example of the group’s ability to blend jazz and hip-hop into a unique and timeless sound.
#2 – Scenario
“Scenario” is a classic hip hop song by A Tribe Called Quest, featuring Busta Rhymes. Released in 1991, the track is known for its energetic beat, catchy hook, and iconic guest verse by Busta Rhymes. The song showcases the group’s intricate lyricism and creative wordplay, as they trade verses about their skills as MCs and the state of hip hop at the time. “Scenario” remains one of A Tribe Called Quest’s most beloved and celebrated tracks, and it continues to be a fan favorite for its dynamic energy and memorable performances by all involved.
#1 – Check the Rhime
“Check the Rhime” is a standout track from A Tribe Called Quest’s second album, “The Low End Theory.” The song features a catchy bassline and samples from jazz musician Ronnie Foster’s “Mystic Brew.” The lyrics are a playful exchange between Q-Tip and Phife Dawg, showcasing the group’s signature witty wordplay and creative flow. The track celebrates the group’s early days and their roots in Queens, New York. With its infectious beat and clever rhymes, “Check the Rhime” has become a fan favorite and a testament to Tribe’s ability to blend jazz, funk, and hip-hop into a unique and influential sound.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
