What makes To the East, Blackwards by X Clan notable?

This album played a significant role in the rise of conscious hip-hop during the early '90s, receiving critical acclaim from publications like The Source. Its cultural impact is evident as it inspired subsequent generations of artists to incorporate political and social themes into their music. Released in 1990, To the East, Blackwards is X Clan's debut album, marking their entry into the hip-hop scene with a distinctive Afrocentric identity. The group was emerging from the late '80s underground movement, looking to challenge prevailing narratives within hip-hop and society at large.

How many songs are on To the East, Blackwards?

To the East, Blackwards has 11 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

To the East, Blackwards

X Clan · 1990

47 min · 11 tracks · hip-hop

A potent blend of Afrocentric themes and hard-hitting beats, delivering a powerful message through intricate lyricism.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Funkin' Lesson — Opening the album with an infectious groove, this track establishes X Clan's mission by intertwining funk influences with a strong political message about empowerment.
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Grand Verbalizer, What Time Is It? — This track showcases the group's lyrical dexterity while emphasizing themes of self-awareness and cultural pride, making it a defining moment on the album.
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Raise the Flag — A rousing anthem that captures the essence of X Clan's Afrocentric philosophy, urging listeners to embrace their heritage and fight against oppression.

Tracklist

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

1 Funkin' Lesson 4:05
2 Grand Verbalizer, What Time Is It? 4:45
3 Tribal Jam 4:51
4 A Day of Outrage, Operation Snatchback 3:18
5 Verbal Milk 4:33
6 Earth Bound 4:29
7 Shaft's Big Score 5:04
8 Raise the Flag 4:03
9 Heed the Word of the Brother 3:39
10 Verbs of Power 4:16
11 In the Ways of the Scales 4:14

What to play next

Listen next

Xodus

1992

Full X Clan discography Artists like X Clan

hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata