202. De La Soul

While the world of Hip Hop was going into Hardcore and Gangsta directions, De La Soul came out of Long Island and set up camp as Rap’s resident hippies. They may very well have been at the dawn of Alternative Rap, as their quirky rhymes and Jazz and Psychedelic infusions made them very different from what was being showcased in the Hip Hop landscape at the time.

History has remained kind towards De La Soul, and as their debut effort being referred to in some circles as the “Sgt. Pepper of Rap”, you can believe that the group has the innovation and influence that the Hall looks for. As we have seen the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame show respect to the genre of Hip Hop, this is a very possible induction.

Should De La Soul be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put them in! - 47.1%

Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 14.7%

Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 5.9%

No opinion. - 0%

No way! - 32.4%

The Bullet Points

Eligible Since: Wednesday, 01 January 2014
Country of Origin: U.S.A. (Long Island, NY)
Why they will get in: They have the uniqueness factor and critical acclaim.
Why they won't get in: They are not as well-known as other eligible Hip Hop acts.
Essential Albums: 3ft High and Rising (1989)
De La Soul is Dead (1991)
Buhloone Mindstate (1993)
Stakes is High (1996)
Our Five Favorite Songs as Chosen by Each Member of the NIHOF Committee: Me Myself and I (From 3ft High and Rising, 1989)
Eye Know (From 3ft High and Rising, 1989)
Buddy (From 3ft High and Rising, 1989)
A Roller Skating Jam Named Saturdays (From De La Soul is Dead, 1991)
Breakadawn (From Buhloone Mindstate, 1993)