Today, the music industry and hip-hop fans around the world mourn the loss of A Tribe Called Quest founding member Malik Taylor (a.k.a. Phife Dawg). The Queens, New York native died on March 22, 2016 after a longtime battle with diabetes.
Even if you’re too young to have grown up with the music of A Tribe Called Quest, you’ve felt their impact. They’re your favorite rapper’s favorite rap group.
Since their inception in 1988, ATCQ has influenced an entire generation of artists with their infectious jazz-infused hip-hop, including OutKast, Kanye West, Common, Pharrell Williams, J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar, among others. The power behind their unique sound is undeniable.
Kendrick paid tribute to Phife during his show in Australia when the news broke Wednesday morning, while other celebrities are honoring the “five-foot assassin’s” life and lyricism on social media. Below are just a few heartfelt reactions.
Phife gave us permission to "kick it" and paved the way for unapologetic expression in hip-hop. To honor his impact on hip-hop and music in general, we're reminiscing on a few of his most memorable lyrics that encompass just how dope of an MC he was. His words live on forever.
Rest in power, Phife.
Tell us what Phife Dawg lyrics you'll always remember.