2023 was set to be a highly anticipated year for the legendary rap trio De La Soul, with the release of their back catalogue on streaming services and the eagerly awaited vinyl reissue of their iconic debut album ‘3 Feet High and Rising‘.
However, the news of the passing of David Jolicoeur, aka Trugoy the Dove, one-third of the group and a crucial player in the group’s unique sound, has overshadowed this milestone moment. Trugoy was an irrepressible force on the mic, possessing a carefree charisma that was unmistakable and infectious. His verses were characterized by their effortlessly cool and laid-back vibe, making him a favourite among hip-hop nerds.
De La Soul‘s music was intricately woven from jazz and funk samples, a technique that contributed to their signature sound, but also led to legal battles over sample clearance that kept their music off streaming services for years. This makes the recent announcement of their catalogue is available for streaming all the more notable.
The passing of Trugoy is a significant loss to the hip-hop community, but his legacy lives on through De La Soul‘s music. The release of the band’s back catalogue is a fitting tribute and celebration of Trugoy’s contribution to the group’s success and the genre as a whole
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