What makes Itstrumental by Prince Paul notable?

The album is notable for its experimental approach to hip-hop, serving as an early example of what would later be termed 'instrumental hip-hop'. It received critical acclaim, with several publications praising its creativity and production quality, further cementing Prince Paul's influence on future artists in the genre. By the time 'Itstrumental' was released in 2003, Prince Paul had already established himself as a pioneering figure in hip-hop production, known for his work with groups like De La Soul and Stetsasonic. This album marked a significant departure from traditional lyric-centric rap, focusing instead on instrumental storytelling and sonic experimentation following his previous album, 'A Prince Among Thieves'.

Who is Itstrumental for?

Itstrumental works well if you're into playful narrative twists throughout, short bursts of humor and engaging skits for casual listening.

How many songs are on Itstrumental?

Itstrumental has 19 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Itstrumental

Prince Paul · 2003

47 min · 19 tracks · contemporary R&B

A playful blend of hip-hop and eclectic samples that showcases Prince Paul's innovative production style.

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Top tracks — play these first

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It’s a Stick Up — This track stands out for its clever use of dialogue snippets, blending humor and seriousness while showcasing Paul’s knack for storytelling through sound.
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My Friend the Popmaster — An exploration of nostalgia through samples, this track captures the essence of 80s pop culture while integrating jazzy instrumentals that highlight Paul’s unique style.
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The Night My Girlfriend Left Me — This track utilizes a raw emotional narrative embedded in its instrumentation, illustrating how Paul can evoke deep feelings without relying on lyrics.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

playful narrative twists throughout
short bursts of humor
engaging skits for casual listening
quirky transitions keeping attention
varied pacing with quick tracks

Maybe skip if you

seeking cohesive long-form pieces
prefer straightforward musical structures

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Itstrumental' was released in 2003, Prince Paul had already established himself as a pioneering figure in hip-hop production, known for his work with groups like De La Soul and Stetsasonic. This album marked a significant departure from traditional lyric-centric rap, focusing instead on instrumental storytelling and sonic experimentation following his previous album, 'A Prince Among Thieves'.
Stylistic neighbors: DJ Shadow· J Dilla· A Tribe Called Quest

Tracklist

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

1 MVU, Act 1 0:51
2 It’s a Stick Up 2:39
3 Flattery 2:45
4 My Friend the Popmaster 4:09
5 Inside Your Mind 3:03
6 El Ka Bong 1:23
7 MVU, Act 2 0:49
8 Yes, I Do Love Them Ho’s! 3:44
9 What Are You Afraid Of? 2:26
10 I Want You (I Am an 80’s Man) 4:28
11 Profit 2:18
12 The Boston Top 3:13
13 MVU, Act 3 0:34
14 And the Winner Is? 3:24
15 Gangsta’s My Style 2:19
16 The Night My Girlfriend Left Me 4:08
17 Live @ 5 2:28
18 MVU, Final Act 1:20
19 Think or Die 1:40

What to play next

Listen next

Politics of the Business

2003

Go back to

A Prince Among Thieves

1999

Full Prince Paul discography Artists like Prince Paul

contemporary R&B hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata