In a recent episode of Rolling Stone Music Now, Marcus J. Moore discussed his book, “High and Rising: A Book About De La Soul,” which offers a comprehensive look at the iconic hip-hop group while intertwining personal anecdotes. Initially hesitant about writing a book on the group, believing it to be too late, he was surprised to find a lack of detailed works on them. However, the release of the book sparked controversy after surviving members of De La Soul, Maceo and Posdunuos, expressed their disapproval on social media, hinting at “legal options” against it, which drew backlash from the journalism community. Critics believed the group’s response stemmed from a misunderstanding of the publishing industry and a protective stance toward their legacy.
Moore reflects on this reaction, viewing it as a “trauma response” to their complicated history with the industry, including a ban on their music catalog from digital platforms until 2023 due to a sample clearance dispute. He highlights the tension within the music industry that De La Soul has navigated for decades, noting that their struggles for recognition and preservation of their work often lead them to see threats where there may not be any.
During the podcast, Moore also revisits De La Soul’s influential albums, from their groundbreaking 1989 debut “Three Feet High and Rising” to the more complex “De La Soul Is Dead.” He discusses how the group’s suburban background informed their distinctive style, allowing them to explore themes of black masculinity in ways that diverged from the dominant narratives in hip-hop at the time. Moore suggests that the group’s later works faced challenges partly due to their approach, which may have intentionally set them apart from mainstream expectations.
While the absence of their catalog from streaming services created challenges, Moore contends that it helped cultivate a sense of mystery around their music, contributing to an underground community that valued mixtape culture. He praises De La Soul for their artistic bravery, asserting that their willingness to take risks has solidified their legacy in music history. Through these conversations, Moore illustrates the enduring impact and relevance of De La Soul in the hip-hop genre.