Flashback Friday: Aaliyah and The Pharcyde

We made it through another week, y’all. And I don’t know about you, but for me, it was a small miracle. Whew.

But the weekend is finally upon us, which means it’s time to flash back. Y’all ready?

Aaliyah (2001)

This week we marked what would have  been the 39th birthday of beloved R&B star Aaliyah. I’ve long said that we lost her right at the peak of her career. Her third and final album had the potential to be a breakout release. Add on her budding acting career and Aaliyah was set to be a major force in pop culture. But her legacy lives on with this album.

Also check out:

“More Than a Woman”

“We Need a Resolution”

The Pharcyde, Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde (1992)

The Pharcyde’s breakout single, “Passin’ Me By” is one of the songs that made me fall in love with hip-hop. Fantastic storytelling, self-deprecating humor and an unforgettable hook make this one of the best songs of its era. But they’re not just one-hit wonders – The Pharcyde were really ahead of their time with songs that targeted racial profiling and sample-heavy production that would be influence countless artists. Y’all might not give them their flowers but I’ll happily speak truth: The Pharcyde are hip-hop pioneers.

Also check out:

“Officer”

“Otha Fish”

Now, it’s your turn. Email soulinstereoblog@gmail.com  hit me up on Twitter @etbowser, or stop by the comments section and share your Flashback Friday album. Leave a couple of sentences describing what makes it so great. I’ll feature your album on the blog.