The Tipping Point cover

The Tipping Point

The Roots · 2004

65 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock · funk · hip-hop

A fusion of conscious lyrics and experimental sounds that push the boundaries of hip-hop's traditional structures.

Why this album works

Best for
long, immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys layered, dense sonic textures
Context
Released in 2004, 'The Tipping Point' was The Roots' sixth studio album, following their acclaimed project 'Phrenology.' By this time, the band had solidified their reputation for blending live instrumentation with hip-hop, showcasing a mature sound while navigating mainstream success. The album also marked their first release after signing with Geffen Records, which indicated a new phase in their artistic direction.
If you like
alternative rock, funk, hip-hop
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The Tipping Point is an album by The Roots, released in 2004. A fusion of conscious lyrics and experimental sounds that push the boundaries of hip-hop's traditional structures. 'The Tipping Point' was praised for its introspective lyrics and innovative sound, debuting at number four on the Billboard 200 chart. It helped to further establish The Roots as a leading force in alternative hip-hop and received critical acclaim from publications like Rolling Stone and Pitchfork, highlighting its influence on future artists within the genre. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does The Tipping Point sound like?

A fusion of conscious lyrics and experimental sounds that push the boundaries of hip-hop's traditional structures. Rooted in alternative rock and funk.

What makes The Tipping Point by The Roots notable?

'The Tipping Point' was praised for its introspective lyrics and innovative sound, debuting at number four on the Billboard 200 chart. It helped to further establish The Roots as a leading force in alternative hip-hop and received critical acclaim from publications like Rolling Stone and Pitchfork, highlighting its influence on future artists within the genre. Released in 2004, 'The Tipping Point' was The Roots' sixth studio album, following their acclaimed project 'Phrenology.' By this time, the band had solidified their reputation for blending live instrumentation with hip-hop, showcasing a mature sound while navigating mainstream success. The album also marked their first release after signing with Geffen Records, which indicated a new phase in their artistic direction.

Who is The Tipping Point for?

The Tipping Point works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and layered, dense sonic textures.

How many songs are on The Tipping Point?

The Tipping Point has 11 tracks, running approximately 65 minutes.

Tracklist

11 tracks·65:50

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

  • 1 Star/Pointro 7:36
  • 2 I Don’t Care 4:02
  • 3 Don’t Say Nuthin’ Standout 3:35
  • 4 Guns Are Drawn Standout 5:15
  • 5 Stay Cool 3:34
  • 6 Web 3:16
  • 7 Boom! 2:58
  • 8 Somebody’s Gotta Do It 4:08
  • 9 Duck Down! 3:56
  • 10 Why (What’s Goin On?) / In Love With the Mic / Din Da Da Standout 16:45
  • 11 Melting Pot 10:40

Release Date

January 1, 2004

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

65 min 50 sec