Amplified cover

Amplified

Q-Tip · 1999

47 min · 12 tracks · rapping · alternative hip-hop · East Coast hip-hop

A vibrant fusion of jazzy beats and smooth lyrical flow that redefined late '90s hip-hop.

Why this album works

Best for
steady flow for focused listening vibrant energy for social settings gradual climax rewarding patience
Context
Released in 1999, 'Amplified' marked Q-Tip's first solo album after the breakup of A Tribe Called Quest, which had significantly shaped his early career. This album came during a time when he was transitioning from a collective identity to establishing his own voice in the hip-hop landscape.
If you like
rapping, alternative hip-hop, East Coast hip-hop

Amplified is an album by Q-Tip, released in 1999. A vibrant fusion of jazzy beats and smooth lyrical flow that redefined late '90s hip-hop. The album debuted at number 28 on the Billboard 200 and received significant critical acclaim, showcasing Q-Tip's innovative approach to hip-hop. Its lead single, 'Vivrant Thing,' became a commercial success, further solidifying Q-Tip’s influence on alternative hip-hop. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Amplified sound like?

A vibrant fusion of jazzy beats and smooth lyrical flow that redefined late '90s hip-hop. Rooted in rapping and alternative hip-hop.

What makes Amplified by Q-Tip notable?

The album debuted at number 28 on the Billboard 200 and received significant critical acclaim, showcasing Q-Tip's innovative approach to hip-hop. Its lead single, 'Vivrant Thing,' became a commercial success, further solidifying Q-Tip’s influence on alternative hip-hop. Released in 1999, 'Amplified' marked Q-Tip's first solo album after the breakup of A Tribe Called Quest, which had significantly shaped his early career. This album came during a time when he was transitioning from a collective identity to establishing his own voice in the hip-hop landscape.

Who is Amplified for?

Amplified works well if you're into steady flow for focused listening, vibrant energy for social settings and gradual climax rewarding patience.

How many songs are on Amplified?

Amplified has 12 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Tracklist

12 tracks·47:36

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Wait Up 3:43
  • 2 Higher 3:30
  • 3 Breathe and Stop Standout 4:04
  • 4 Moving With U 3:22
  • 5 Let's Ride Standout 4:08
  • 6 Things U Do 4:06
  • 7 All In 3:09
  • 8 Go Hard 3:03
  • 9 Do It 2:51
  • 10 Vivrant Thing Standout 3:12
  • 11 N.T. 3:55
  • 12 End of Time / Do It, See It, Be It 8:33

Release Date

January 1, 1999

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

47 min 36 sec