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Stakes Is High

by De La Soul

Released: July 02, 1996

East Coast hip hop

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Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Breakthrough.

The Album

"Stakes Is High" is the fourth studio album by American hip hop group De La Soul, released on July 2, 1996, by Tommy Boy Records. The album is noted for its shift towards a darker and more serious tone compared to their previous work. "Stakes Is High" remains a pivotal album in De La Soul's discography, showcasing their evolution both in production style and thematic content, and solidifying their reputation as innovative artists within the hip hop genre.

Inside the Recording

This album marked a significant departure for the group as it was their first without collaboration from producer Prince Paul. Instead, De La Soul took on the role of producers themselves, with additional contributions from Jay Dee (J Dilla), DJ Ogee, Spearhead X, and Skeff Anslem.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

Lyrically, "Stakes Is High" addresses social and political…

Lyrically, "Stakes Is High" addresses social and political issues, reflecting on the challenges and pressures of contemporary society.

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De La Soul - Stakes Is High

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Reception

Despite receiving strong reviews from critics who praised its lyrical depth and musical experimentation, the album did not achieve significant commercial success.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"Stakes Is High" is the fourth studio album by American hip hop group De La Soul, released on July 2, 1996, by Tommy Boy Records. This album marked a significant departure for the group as it was their first without collaboration from producer Prince Paul. Instead, De La Soul took on the role of producers themselves, with additional contributions from Jay Dee (J Dilla), DJ Ogee, Spearhead X, and Skeff Anslem.

The album is noted for its shift towards a darker and more serious tone compared to their previous work. Lyrically, "Stakes Is High" addresses social and political issues, reflecting on the challenges and pressures of contemporary society. Despite receiving strong reviews from critics who praised its lyrical depth and musical experimentation, the album did not achieve significant commercial success.

"Stakes Is High" remains a pivotal album in De La Soul's discography, showcasing their evolution both in production style and thematic content, and solidifying their reputation as innovative artists within the hip hop genre.