What makes How I Got Over by The Roots notable?

'How I Got Over' received widespread critical acclaim, appearing on numerous year-end lists and showcasing The Roots' ability to address social issues while maintaining commercial appeal. The album debuted at number 6 on the Billboard 200 chart, further establishing their presence in the evolving landscape of hip-hop during the early 2010s. By the time 'How I Got Over' was released in 2010, The Roots had transitioned from being known as the house band for 'The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon' to solidifying their status as influential figures in hip-hop. This album followed their critically acclaimed release 'Rising Down' and marked a period of artistic growth as they explored deeper themes of hope, struggle, and resilience.

Who is How I Got Over for?

How I Got Over works well if you're into short, reflective listening sessions, introspective lyrical exploration and emotional storytelling journeys.

How many songs are on How I Got Over?

How I Got Over has 14 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

How I Got Over

The Roots · 2010

42 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock

A reflective blend of soulful melodies and thought-provoking lyrics anchored by intricate rhythms and a sense of community.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Dear God 2.0 — This track reinterprets Xscap3's original song, blending personal reflections on faith with broader societal critiques, making it a powerful centerpiece of the album.
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How I Got Over — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of perseverance, with its introspective lyrics and soulful instrumentation creating a poignant listening experience.
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The Fire — With its fiery energy and motivational lyrics, this track serves as an anthem for resilience and determination, showcasing The Roots' dynamic sound.
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Walk Alone — This song's exploration of solitude and self-reflection resonates deeply, combining smooth jazz influences with contemplative lyrics that invite listeners to engage personally.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

67 /100

Alpine

Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

The album combines thoughtful lyrics with intricate rhythms, maintaining a cohesive flow while exploring social themes.

What we noticed

The album opens with a spoken-word intro that sets a reflective tone, followed by tracks that blend live instrumentation with hip-hop beats.
The final three tracks gradually decrease in tempo, allowing for a contemplative conclusion to the record.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short, reflective listening sessions
introspective lyrical exploration
emotional storytelling journeys
steady pacing with varied dynamics

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'How I Got Over' was released in 2010, The Roots had transitioned from being known as the house band for 'The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon' to solidifying their status as influential figures in hip-hop. This album followed their critically acclaimed release 'Rising Down' and marked a period of artistic growth as they explored deeper themes of hope, struggle, and resilience.
Stylistic neighbors: A Tribe Called Quest· The Black Seeds· J Dilla