On Friday, January 17, David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center was electrified with the energy of Hip-Hop as De La Soul headlined a special evening as part of Lincoln Center’s “Beats, Rhymes and Sights” series.
This series, curated by Xavier “X” Jernigan—Lincoln Center’s Hip-Hop guest curator and Spotify’s Head of Cultural Partnerships—celebrates the next 50 years of Hip-Hop artistry, legacy, and innovation. It features a vibrant lineup of concerts, film screenings, dance parties, and interactive events that bring the culture’s essence to life.
The evening began with the legendary DJ Prince Paul setting the tone, spinning an unforgettable mix of classic Hip-Hop tracks that had the crowd on their feet and ready for the main event.
When De La Soul took the stage, the audience erupted, welcoming the iconic group that has been a cornerstone of Hip-Hop since their debut. Performing timeless hits like “Me Myself and I,” “Much More,” “Potholes in My Lawn,” “Stakes Is High,” and “Oodles of O’s,” they reminded the crowd why their sound remains so influential.
The night was also a testament to the enduring spirit of collaboration in Hip-Hop, as De La Soul brought out surprise guests: the Jungle Brothers, Talib Kweli, and Pete Rock. Each guest added their unique flair to the evening, creating moments of synergy and celebration that underscored Hip-Hop’s communal roots.
A significant theme of the evening was honoring the late Dave “Trugoy the Dove” Jolicoeur, who passed away in 2023. The loss of Trugoy, a beloved member of De La Soul, was deeply felt in the Hip-Hop community, and the group made sure his spirit was present throughout the show. Heartfelt tributes, poignant visuals, and stories of their time together served as a reminder of his indelible impact on music and culture.
Lincoln Center’s “Beats, Rhymes and Sights” series continues to set the stage for meaningful celebrations of Hip-Hop’s legacy and future. De La Soul’s performance not only honored the genre’s past but also showcased its enduring vibrancy and power to bring people together.
De La Soul – Lincoln Center, Manhattan – Friday, January 17, 2025
Setlist: The Return of D.S.T., Eye Know, The Grind Date, Buddy, When the Sun Shines Again, Plug Tunin, Potholes in My Lawn, Stakes is High, Oodles of O’s, The Blast, Much More, Get By, Me Myself and I
