3 Feet High and Rising

Definition

'3 Feet High and Rising' is a groundbreaking album by De La Soul, released in 1989, that played a crucial role in the evolution of hip-hop. This album is celebrated for its eclectic sampling, playful lyrics, and innovative approach to hip-hop that challenged the norms of the genre. It is often recognized for blending various musical styles and promoting a more positive message compared to the prevalent themes in hip-hop at the time, which makes it an essential piece in the discussions of both alternative hip-hop and the Golden Age of hip-hop.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. '3 Feet High and Rising' was one of the first hip-hop albums to utilize extensive sampling from a wide range of genres, including rock, jazz, and soul.
2. The album features tracks like 'Me Myself and I' and 'Buddy', which became influential hits that helped shape the sound of alternative hip-hop.
3. De La Soul's use of quirky humor and introspective lyrics set them apart from other artists in the Golden Age of hip-hop, which often focused on more aggressive themes.
4. The cover art for '3 Feet High and Rising' is iconic, featuring a collage style that reflects the album's innovative spirit and diverse influences.
5. The album is often credited with helping to establish alternative hip-hop as a distinct subgenre, paving the way for future artists who sought to experiment with sounds and messages.

Review Questions

• How did '3 Feet High and Rising' influence the sound and themes of alternative hip-hop during its release?
  • '3 Feet High and Rising' influenced alternative hip-hop by introducing diverse samples from various genres, which encouraged other artists to experiment with their music. The album's positive lyrics and playful themes marked a shift away from the harsher narratives prevalent at the time. This approach not only broadened the scope of hip-hop but also opened doors for artists who wanted to express different perspectives within the genre.
• Discuss how De La Soul’s debut album contrasts with typical themes found in the Golden Age of hip-hop.
  • '3 Feet High and Rising' stands out from typical themes found in the Golden Age of hip-hop by focusing on positivity, humor, and social consciousness instead of aggression or materialism. While many artists during this era emphasized street credibility and bravado, De La Soul embraced a more eclectic sound and playful lyricism. Their approach offered an alternative narrative that resonated with listeners looking for something different in the evolving landscape of hip-hop music.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of '3 Feet High and Rising' on both alternative hip-hop and mainstream music trends.
  • '3 Feet High and Rising' had a significant long-term impact on both alternative hip-hop and mainstream music trends by redefining what hip-hop could be. Its innovative use of samples inspired countless artists to experiment with sound beyond traditional boundaries. The album paved the way for future generations to incorporate diverse musical influences into their work while promoting messages centered on positivity and creativity, thus enriching the cultural tapestry of both hip-hop and popular music overall.

Related terms

Sample-Based Music: A music production technique that involves reusing portions of sound recordings in new compositions, which was prominently featured in '3 Feet High and Rising'.

Hip-Hop Positivity: A lyrical theme that emphasizes optimism and community values, which is a hallmark of De La Soul's work on their debut album.

Native Tongues: A collective of hip-hop artists in the late 1980s and early 1990s that advocated for a more conscious style of hip-hop, including De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, and Jungle Brothers.