Hold It Down
Das EFX · 1995
74 min · 20 tracks · East Coast hip-hop
A vibrant collage of intricate wordplay and dynamic beats that encapsulates the essence of '90s East Coast hip-hop.
Why this album works
The album is notable for its critical reception, with several tracks becoming underground classics. It peaked at number 24 on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing Das EFX's impact within the East Coast hip-hop scene, particularly with their innovative lyrical style. Additionally, it helped to further popularize the group during a time when hip-hop was rapidly expanding into diverse sub-genres.
- Best for
- dynamic emotional journeys long, immersive listening sessions wave-like pacing variations
- Context
- Released in January 1995, 'Hold It Down' was Das EFX's third studio album, following their successful sophomore effort, 'Dead Serious.' At this point in their career, they were solidifying their unique style characterized by rapid-fire lyrics and playful storytelling. The album sought to maintain their relevance amidst an evolving hip-hop landscape dominated by new sounds and artists.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Nas· Kool Keith· Kool G Rap
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Intro (Once Again) 1:08
- 2 No Diggedy Standout 4:03
- 3 Knockin’ Niggaz Off 3:24
- 4 Here We Go 4:05
- 5 Real Hip‐Hop (original version) Standout 4:09
- 6 Here It Is 4:59
- 7 Microphone Master Standout 4:30
- 8 40 & A Blunt 3:17
- 9 Buck‐Buck 3:13
- 10 Intro 0:08
- 11 Can’t Have Nuttin’ 5:33
- 12 Alright 4:24
- 13 Hold It Down 4:48
- 14 Dedicated 3:46
- 15 Ready to Rock Rough Rhymes 4:35
- 16 Represent the Real 3:19
- 17 Comin’ Thru 3:30
- 18 Hardcore Rap Act 4:43
- 19 Bad News 2:20
- 20 Real Hip‐Hop (Pete Rock remix) 3:59
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.