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list Sep 29 2024 Written by

Top 15 A Tribe Called Quest Songs

Top 15 A Tribe Called Quest Songs

A Tribe Called Quest is one of Hip Hop’s most influential and iconic groups, leaving an indelible mark on both the genre and music as a whole. As part of the Native Tongues collective, ATCQ followed in the footsteps of the Jungle Brothers and De La Soul. Often labeled as alternative or jazz rap, A Tribe Called Quest, along with their Native Tongues peers, carved out a unique niche in Hip Hop. Their innovative approach served as a refreshing counterpoint to the increasingly prevalent gangsta rap scene, offering a creative alternative to the genre’s growing reliance on violent imagery and clichés.

ATCQ’s music was characterized by innovative production techniques, jazz-infused beats, socially conscious and often witty lyrics, and distinctive, laid-back flows. Their influence extends far beyond their active years, with their work continuing to inspire new generations of artists. A Tribe Called Quest’s legacy is undeniable, their position among Hip Hop’s elite secure.

To celebrate their impact, we’ve compiled our top 15 A Tribe Called Quest songs. Do you agree with our selections? Let’s discuss!

15. Push It Along (1990)

“Q-Tip is my title, I don’t think that it’s vital / For me to be your idol, but dig this recital / If you can’t envision a brother who ain’t dissing / Slinging this and that, cause this and that was missing / Instead, it’s been injected, the Tribe has been perfected / Oh yes, it’s been selected, the art makes it protected…” 

The opening track of People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm introduces A Tribe Called Quest’s signature jazzy and eclectic sound. While Phife Dawg was still in the process of finding his voice, Q-Tip immediately established himself as a commanding presence with his smooth delivery and thoughtful lyrics. “Push It Along” sets the stage for the group’s laid-back, yet impactful approach to music, blending jazz-infused beats with insightful commentary. The infectious rhythm, driven by the BOOM, the BIP, the BOOM BIP, makes this track an essential starting point for understanding the early days of A Tribe Called Quest’s unique style.

14. 1nce Again (1996)

“This is the year that I come in and just devastate / My style is great ask your peoples can I dominate? / My rhymes are harder than last night’s erection / Don’t play me close, I’ll have this mic up in your rear section…”

From A Tribe Called Quest’s fourth album, Beats, Rhymes & Life, “1nce Again” offers a fresh take on their signature back-and-forth style. Serving as a follow-up to their 1991 hit “Check The Rhime,” the track features Q-Tip and Phife Dawg trading verses effortlessly, delivering clever wordplay over a deep, grooving bassline. Tammy Lucas adds a smooth, catchy hook that enhances the track’s laid-back vibe. While Beats, Rhymes & Life didn’t achieve the same acclaim as Tribe’s earlier classics, “1nce Again” highlights their continued creativity and chemistry, offering fans another strong example of their distinctive sound.

13. Lyrics To Go (1993)

“I know it’s been two years but see the Tribe was never fallin / Would have tried for singin but that stuff was not my callin / The mic is in effect so you know I’m never stallin / Walkin through the door and all them suckers started haulin…” 

An incredibly inventive track from Midnight Marauders, “Lyrics To Go” stands out for its unique production. There’s no traditional bassline—just a bass kick driving the rhythm, proof of Q-Tip and Ali Shaheed Muhammad’s genius behind the boards. The song delivers a smooth blend of beats and creative samples, while Q-Tip and Phife Dawg trade clever verses filled with playful bragging and witty wordplay.

“Lyrics To Go” is one of the album’s hidden gems, highlighting the group’s knack for pushing Hip Hop in new directions while keeping the vibe laid-back and enjoyable. It’s a masterclass in both production and lyricism.

12. Verses From The Abstract (1991)

“I must regroup my thoughts and kick the next ones for my people / Please don’t be deceived by the ugly slice of evil / The world is kinda cold and the rhythm is my blanket / Wrap yourself up in it, if you love it, then you’ll thank it” 

A standout track from The Low End Theory, “Verses From The Abstract” offers a refreshing contrast to the gangster narratives popular at the time. Q-Tip delivers his smoothest rhymes, effortlessly riding the beat with a laid-back confidence. Ron Carter’s bassline is a key element, providing a rich and captivating rhythm that elevates the track’s overall vibe. The combination of jazz influences and Q-Tip’s lyrical finesse makes this one of the most memorable songs on the album.

11. Bonita Applebum (1990)

“Hey Bonita, glad to meet ya / For the kind of stunning newness, I must beseech ya / Being with you is a top priority / Ain’t no need to question the authority / Chairman of the board, the chief of affections / You got mine’s to swing in your direction / Hey, you’re like a Hip Hop song, you know? Bonita Applebum, you gotta put me on…” 

“Bonita Applebum” shines as the second single from People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm. This track marks ATCQ’s initial foray into celebrating female beauty through their music. With its playful and cheeky lyrics, “Bonita Applebum” captures listeners’ hearts effortlessly. The song’s smooth, jazzy production creates an irresistible backdrop for Q-Tip’s clever wordplay and flirtatious delivery.

As one of ATCQ’s earliest hits, “Bonita Applebum” helped establish their unique sound in the Hip Hop landscape, blending humor, charm, and musical innovation in a way that became synonymous with the group’s style.

10. Get A Hold (1996)

“The deadly venom, let me start from the beginning / We always hitting, so yo, there’ll be no extra innings / As I send the mic out the park like Reggie Jackson / You be the minor leaguer who sees no action…”

“Get A Hold” is a standout track from Beats, Rhymes, and Life. This song captivates listeners with its dark, brooding atmosphere and commanding bass line. The production, crafted by The Ummah collective, bears the unmistakable influence of J Dilla’s genius. His signature sound permeates the track, adding depth and complexity to ATCQ’s evolving musical palette.

Q-Tip and Phife Dawg’s lyrical interplay shines against this moody backdrop. “Get A Hold” represents a shift in ATCQ’s sound, embracing a grittier edge while maintaining their trademark creativity and musical innovation.

9. Oh My God (1993)

“Listen up everybody, the bottom line / I’m a black intellect, but unrefined / With precision like a bullet, target bound / Just living like a hooker, the harlot sounds / Now when I say the harlot, you know I mean the hot / Heat of the equator, the broth that’s in the pot…” 

“Oh My God” ranks among the many exceptional tracks on the iconic Midnight Marauders. The song’s infectious energy stems from its clever use of a Busta Rhymes sample as the chorus, creating an instantly memorable hook. Q-Tip and Phife Dawg’s verses flow effortlessly over the jazzy, head-nodding beat, their lyrical prowess and unique chemistry front and center. It’s a prime example of why Midnight Marauders is considered a Hip Hop classic.

8. Butter (1991)

“Cause I am not the one, I got more game than Parker Brothers / Phife Dawg is on the mic and I’m smooth like butter” 

“Butter” gives Phife Dawg his moment in the spotlight on The Low End Theory. This track highlights Phife’s growth into a full-fledged lyricist, moving beyond his previous role of occasional support for Q-Tip. Phife’s solo performance on “Butter” is captivating, his flow as smooth as the song’s title suggests. The laid-back beat provides the perfect backdrop for Phife’s clever wordplay and charismatic delivery. “Butter” represents a turning point for ATCQ, showing the group’s expanding artistic range and Phife’s increasing importance to their sound. This irresistible track not only elevates The Low End Theory but also signals ATCQ’s progression towards a more balanced and dynamic duo format.

7. Can I Kick It (1990)

“Can I kick it? To all the people who can Quest like A Tribe does / Before this, did you really know what live was? / Comprehend to the track, for it’s why cuz / Gettin measures on the tip of the vibers…” 

“Can I Kick It” was the third single from People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm. This track’s brilliance lies in its innovative sampling, weaving together diverse musical elements. The iconic bassline from Lou Reed’s “Walk On The Wild Side” forms the foundation, while snippets from Lonnie Liston Smith’s “Spinning Wheel” and Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band’s “Sunshower” add layers of complexity.

ATCQ’s clever lyrics and relaxed flow blend seamlessly with this eclectic mix, creating an irresistible groove. “Can I Kick It” quickly became a Hip Hop anthem, its catchy chorus and infectious beat making it a staple at parties and clubs. This track established ATCQ’s unique sound and demonstrated their skill in reimagining existing music into fresh, original compositions.

6. Scenario (1991)

“Sit back relax and let yourself go / Don’t sweat what you heard, but act like you know” 

“Scenario” ranks among Hip Hop’s most renowned and beloved posse cuts. This track, featuring A Tribe Called Quest alongside Leaders of the New School, closes out the stellar Low End Theory album with explosive energy. Busta Rhymes’ unforgettable verse on “Scenario” catapulted him into the spotlight, effectively launching his solo career and foreshadowing the end of Leaders of the New School. The song’s infectious beat and catchy hooks make it an instant crowd-pleaser, while each rapper’s unique style adds depth and variety to the track.

“Scenario” exemplifies the collaborative spirit of early ’90s Hip Hop, bringing together diverse talents to create something truly extraordinary. It’s a fitting finale to The Low End Theory, leaving listeners energized and craving more of ATCQ’s innovative sound.

5. Award Tour (1993)

“People give your ears so I be sublime / It’s enjoyable to know you and your concubines / Niggas, take off your coats, ladies act like gems / Sit down, Indian style, as we recite these hymns…” 

The first single from Midnight Marauders, “Award Tour,” featuring De La Soul’s Dove on the hook, quickly silenced any doubts about A Tribe Called Quest’s ability to follow up The Low End Theory with another classic. The track blends infectious rhythm with effortless lyricism, creating a perfect vibe that reflects the group’s signature style.

“Award Tour” set the stage for an album that consistently delivered quality from start to finish, with no filler tracks in sight. It’s a prime example of Hip Hop at its finest, reinforcing Tribe’s reputation for creating music that both elevates and entertains.

4. I Left My Wallet In El Segundo (1990)

“I ordered enchiladas and I ate em / Ali had the fruit punch” 

Released on April 11, 1990, as the first single from People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm, “I Left My Wallet in El Segundo” was many fans’ first introduction to A Tribe Called Quest. The track’s playful narrative, combined with the group’s distinctive sound, quickly captured listeners’ attention. With its laid-back vibe, clever storytelling, and catchy beat, the song perfectly encapsulated the unique blend of humor and style that would define the group. It’s an unforgettable track that instantly made fans fall in love with A Tribe Called Quest’s refreshing approach to Hip Hop and set the stage for their future success.

3. Jazz (We've Got) / Buggin' Out (1991)

“Stern firm and young with a laid-back tongue / The aim is to succeed and achieve at 21 / Just like Ringling Brothers, I’ll daze and astound / Captivate the mass, cause the prose was profound / Do it for the strong, we do it for the meek / Boom it in your boom it in your boom it in your Jeep…” 

While it might be a bit of a cheat and a possibility for us to include two songs in one entry here, the double-header video for Jazz (We’ve Got) and Buggin’ Out deserves recognition for presenting two standout tracks from The Low End Theory. “Jazz (We’ve Got)” highlights A Tribe Called Quest’s masterful blend of jazz elements with smooth, laid-back Hip Hop.

Meanwhile, “Buggin’ Out” delivers an iconic Phife Dawg verse, packed with energy and witty lines that have become fan favorites. Together, these tracks represent the perfect fusion of lyrical talent and innovative production that defined ATCQ’s contribution to Hip Hop.

2. Electric Relaxation (1993)

“Honey, check it out, you got me mesmerized / With your black hair and your fat-ass thighs / Street poetry is my everyday / But yo, I gotta stop when you trot my way” 

“Electric Relaxation” from Midnight Marauders is one of A Tribe Called Quest’s finest tracks and a standout in Hip Hop overall. This smooth, laid-back song features Q-Tip and Phife Dawg delivering clever and playful rhymes in tribute to women, all set against a jazzy backdrop. The production is warm and inviting, driven by a timeless groove that perfectly complements the duo’s relaxed flow. The result is an unforgettable track that highlights the group’s lyrical creativity and their ability to craft beats that define the sound of classic Hip Hop. A true masterpiece in their catalog.

1. Check The Rhime (1991)

“Now here’s a funky introduction of how nice I am / Tell your mother, tell your father, send a telegram” 

The lead single from The Low End Theory, “Check The Rhime,” captures the essence of A Tribe Called Quest’s style. Q-Tip and Phife Dawg display unmatched chemistry, trading lines with an effortless rhythm that showcases their complementary lyrical skills. The track’s production, marked by a smooth, jazzy beat, creates a laid-back yet commanding atmosphere. With its memorable hook and iconic verses, “Check The Rhime” remains one of Hip Hop’s most celebrated tracks. It embodies the group’s unique approach to music and has earned its place as a defining moment in A Tribe Called Quest’s career. The ultimate ATCQ anthem.

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2 responses to “Top 15 A Tribe Called Quest Songs”

  1. Michael Martin says:

    Is this about HIT SONGS or their BEST SONGS (the real s***).
    Take I LEFT MY WALLET , CAN I KICK IT, 1nce AGAIN off that list. IMMEDIATELY Also although a BANGER I would take GET A HOLD off. Change WE GOT THE JAZZ for the remix version. CLAP YOUR HANDS and LIKE IT LIKE THAT. FOOTPRINTS, VIBES AND STUFF, should be in there.
    Honourable Mention The whole of MIDNIGHT MARAUDERS and then the rest of their entire musical catalogue.

  2. K Douglas says:

    15. Like It Like That
    14. Hot Sex
    13. 1nce Again
    12. Lyrics To Go
    11. Luck of Lucien
    10. Buggin’ Out
    9. Bonita Applebaum
    8. Find a Way
    7. Get a Hold
    6. Jazz (We’ve Got)
    5. Award Tour
    4. Scenario
    3. Oh My God
    2. Check The Rhime
    1. Electric Relaxation

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