Released 19 years ago today: The Roots “Illadelph Halflife”
Illadelph Halflife is the third studio album by The Roots, released September 24, 1996 on Geffen Records. It features a tougher and broader sound than their previous album, Do You Want More?!!!??! (1994). The album also contains integration of programmed drums and guest contributions by R&B musicians such as Amel Larrieux and D’Angelo, as well as jazz musicians such as David Murray, Steve Coleman, Cassandra Wilson, Graham Haynes.
In 1998, the album was selected as one of The Source’s 100 Best Rap Albums. In 2006, the album was selected as one of Hip-Hop Connection’s 100 Best Rap Albums from 1995 to 2005.