A Tribe Called Quest’s innovative fusion of jazz, funk, and rap has made them one of the most influential groups in hip-hop history. Their ability to weave together socially conscious lyrics with groundbreaking production set them apart from their peers. Below are ten of their most iconic songs, each of which showcases the group’s artistry and lasting impact on the genre.
1. “Can I Kick It?”
Released as the lead single from their debut album People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm (1990), “Can I Kick It?” is a laid-back, smooth track that instantly became a hip-hop classic. Built around a Lou Reed sample from “Walk on the Wild Side,” the song’s catchy hook and witty lyrics made it a favorite among fans. Its blend of storytelling and infectious beat paved the way for A Tribe Called Quest’s signature style.
2. “Electric Relaxation”
One of the standout tracks from Midnight Marauders (1993), “Electric Relaxation” exemplifies the group’s ability to combine smooth, jazzy production with cool, laid-back rhymes. The song’s mellow vibe and memorable lines from both Q-Tip and Phife Dawg made it a fan favorite. It remains one of their most recognizable tracks, thanks to its effortlessly cool sound and playful lyrics about romance and relaxation.
3. “Scenario”
Featured on The Low End Theory (1991), “Scenario” is arguably one of A Tribe Called Quest’s most energetic and hype-driven songs. With its fast-paced beat and bold, fiery verses, “Scenario” is a dynamic display of the group’s versatility. The track also features an unforgettable verse by Busta Rhymes, which helped to propel his career and solidify his place in hip-hop history.
4. “Check the Rhime”
A quintessential track from The Low End Theory, “Check the Rhime” sees Q-Tip and Phife Dawg at their lyrical best. The track’s catchy hook (“You on point Phife? / All the time, Tip!”) and smooth delivery made it a staple in the group’s catalog. It’s a perfect example of A Tribe Called Quest’s seamless blend of social commentary, clever wordplay, and jazzy production.
5. “Award Tour”
From Midnight Marauders, “Award Tour” is an anthem celebrating A Tribe Called Quest’s success and their journey through the music industry. The song’s infectious beat and uplifting chorus, combined with Q-Tip and Phife’s charismatic verses, make it one of their most iconic tracks. It showcases the group’s ability to balance celebration with introspective lyrics.
6. “Bonita Applebum”
“Bonita Applebum” is one of A Tribe Called Quest’s most beloved songs, appearing on their debut album. With its smooth, jazzy production and flirtatious lyrics, the song represents the group’s early mastery of blending relaxed beats with clever storytelling. Phife’s playful verse about his admiration for a woman named Bonita became one of the group’s signature moments.
7. “Find a Way”
From Midnight Marauders, “Find a Way” is a feel-good track that highlights the group’s talent for crafting catchy, positive music with a deeper meaning. The song discusses the need to persevere in the face of adversity and the importance of staying true to oneself. Its lighthearted vibe and uplifting message make it a timeless favorite in the group’s catalog.
8. “I Left My Wallet in El Segundo”
This humorous and light-hearted track from People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm tells the story of Q-Tip’s lost wallet, weaving a fun narrative with clever rhymes. The song’s playful vibe and quirky storytelling set it apart from other tracks at the time and showcased A Tribe Called Quest’s ability to create relatable yet memorable tunes.
9. “Hot Sex”
Originally released as a part of the Hot Sex EP, this track features some of the group’s smoothest production. With its sultry, jazzy instrumental and catchy hook, “Hot Sex” became a standout track and an anthem for the group’s flirtatious, relaxed vibe. Its bold yet fun lyrics about romance make it an essential part of A Tribe Called Quest’s legacy.
10. “We the People….”
From their final album We Got It from Here… Thank You 4 Your Service (2016), “We the People….” is a powerful statement on social issues, particularly regarding racial inequality. The track’s hard-hitting production and thought-provoking lyrics serve as an impassioned call to action. It was one of the standout songs of the album and highlighted A Tribe Called Quest’s continued relevance in hip-hop, even after more than two decades in the game.
A Tribe Called Quest’s catalog is filled with timeless tracks that have not only shaped hip-hop but also continue to influence artists today. From their early playful storytelling to their later, more socially conscious commentary, these ten songs represent the versatility, creativity, and lasting impact of one of the genre’s most important groups.
