PMD | A Tribe Called Quest — The Low End Theory

CROSSFADER · PMD EXPERIENCE 001

SIDE A · 1991

A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

THE LOW
END THEORY

JAZZ · BASS · HIP-HOP

TAP. EXPLORE. LISTEN.

FEATURED OPENING TRACK

CHECK THE RHIME

Press play to drop the needle.

Official audio via YouTube. Tap play to listen.

↓ ENTER THE EXPERIENCE

01 / THE RECORD

The sound of a movement.

Released September 24, 1991, The Low End Theory fused jazz-influenced textures, low-frequency grooves and sharp lyricism into a landmark hip-hop album. Its understated production helped change the sound and possibilities of the genre.

02 / GO DEEPER

THE CREW ＋
Q-Tip, Phife Dawg, Ali Shaheed Muhammad and Jarobi White formed A Tribe Called Quest. On this album, Q-Tip and Phife's contrasting voices ride Ali Shaheed Muhammad's understated musical foundation.
THE SOUND ＋
Minimal drums, upright-bass textures and jazz samples create room for the MCs. Listen for how the bassline becomes as memorable as the hook.
THE LEGACY ＋
A defining record of jazz rap and alternative hip-hop, the album influenced generations of producers, beatmakers and lyricists.
THE GUESTS ＋
The album features memorable contributions from Busta Rhymes, Leaders of the New School, Diamond D, Lord Jamar, Sadat X and jazz bassist Ron Carter.

04 / KEEP LISTENING

Let the record play.

▶ EXPLORE THE FULL ALBUM

Opens YouTube Music

PHYSICAL MEETS DIGITAL

Curated by CrossFader · CrossFaderLA.com