De La Soul's classic lyricism has enriched Hip-Hop memories, and this section of their VladTV exclusive interview delves into the deeper meaning of the symbolism behind their second release, 'De La Soul is Dead.' The ensemble speaks on how they refused to allow a manufactured image to eclipse the importance of their music, and how their "hippie" image led many to believe they were "punks."
The trio offered their personal insight on why the smashed flower pot from their sophomore album cover held significant importance. A collective agreement resounded that the "Hippie" image was not relevant to their overall art, with Maseo adding, "It was definitely denouncing the image, because the overall image of the group is about creativity and the music. And the message, I think, the message was misconstrued."
Picking up on that train of thought Trugoy explained, "It was also about taking control as well. We had to take the control out of the media's hand, and out of the label's hand, and I think crushing that flower pot was like, 'Now what y'all got to work with; we're in control now.'" Working to emphasize that point Pos chimed in with, "We wanted to let you know that it's about De La Soul, regardless...It's the words, it's the music that is what's more important."
Although the trio was blessed with the undaunted lyricism, the image that they provoked, often led people to believe that they were "punks." The clip closes with De La speaking about a San Francisco show they were performing at with A Tribe Called Quest back in the day which ended with both groups stomping out a disrespectful fan.
