Unfortunately, the closest many whites ever come to such a place is in their cars, volume turned up, heads bobbing awkwardly to George Clinton, Prince or Public Enemy, while many black artists only come as near as a watered-down, pandering album or two. Still, the effort never stops.
White audiences go on listening, black artists go on making music.
And every once in a while, the two clasp hands and make it to the other side. In the crossover pantheon, De La Soul is cordoned off by velvet ropes. However, the trio's next efforts were significant departures, and as a result received less attention. The beats, while at times sparse, are grounded by layers of bass and keen samples. His absence is audible in the less eclectic production, but an updated and more genuine energy takes its place.