Musical Collaborations Between Gorillaz and De La Soul
While these two groups come from different backgrounds and genres, their paths have crossed on several memorable occasions. The first was on Gorillaz's second studio album, "Demon Days," released in 2005. De La Soul featured on the track "Feel Good Inc.," a song that became a major hit and took home the Grammy for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals.
This successful partnership paved the way for future collaborations, including "Superfast Jellyfish" and "Momentz," adding further depth and variety to Gorillaz's eclectic sound.
Is De La Soul in Gorillaz?
When it comes to innovative, genre-blurring collaborations, few can rival the creative synergy between Gorillaz and De La Soul.
Gorillaz, the brainchild of British musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett, is renowned for their virtual band concept featuring four animated characters: 2-D, Murdoc Niccals, Noodle, and Russel Hobbs. These characters represent the band in their unique music videos and multimedia presentations, and have become iconic figures in pop culture.
On the other side of the Atlantic, we have De La Soul, a pioneering Hip-Hop group from Long Island, New York. Comprised of members Posdnuos, Trugoy the Dove, and Maseo, De La Soul made their mark with a groundbreaking, eclectic style that pushes the boundaries of hip hop.
When they come together, magic happens — a testament to the power of creative synergy in music.
What Collaborations Have Gorillaz and De La Soul Done?
"Demon Days"
De La Soul collaborated with Gorillaz on the hit track "Feel Good Inc." from "Demon Days," which stands as a pivotal album in the mid-2000s.
"Plastic Beach"
"Plastic Beach" is the third studio album by Gorillaz, released in 2010. De La Soul again joined forces with the band on this album for the memorable track "Superfast Jellyfish," a vibrant and eclectic tune that perfectly embodies the album's theme of environmental consciousness blended with pop culture critique.
"Humanz"
"Humanz" is Gorillaz's fifth studio album, released in 2017. De La Soul features on the track "Momentz," an energetic song that continues the tradition of their successful collaborations, contributing to the album's exploration of a world thrown into chaos and disorder.
"Cracker Island" (Deluxe)
Gorillaz’s eighth album arrived in February 2023, with tracks featuring Stevie Nicks, Thundercat, Tame Impala, Bad Bunny, and Beck. Of course, De La Soul also makes an appearance on the album’s deluxe edition standout, “Crocadillaz,” including a verse from late rapperTrugoy the Dove (also known as DaveJolicoeur). The song also features Dawn Penn.
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Music Videos
One of the most recognized collaborations between Gorillaz and De La Soul is their work on the music video for "Feel Good Inc." A standout single from Gorillaz's critically acclaimed "Demon Days," the video brilliantly embodies Gorillaz's innovative identity.
The video is a unique blend of animation and live-action elements, featuring the animated Gorillaz members and the De La Soul trio in a fantastical, dystopian setting. The iconic floating island and windmill from the video have since become enduring symbols associated with the band. The distinctive mix of styles in this video serves as a testament to the innovative spirit of both Gorillaz and De La Soul.
How Did the Relationship Between Gorillaz and De La Soul Begin?
The relationship between Gorillaz, the British virtual band created by frontman Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett, and De La Soul, the American Hip-Hop trio, began during the creation of Gorillaz's second studio album, "Demon Days," released in 2005.
This collaboration was the start of a creative partnership that extended to several other tracks across multiple Gorillaz albums, including "Superfast Jellyfish" on "Plastic Beach" (2010) and "Momentz" on "Humanz" (2017).
What Are Some Other Dope Gorillaz Collaborations?
Renowned for their eclectic sound and innovative collaborations, Gorillaz have teamed up with a diverse range of talents. Among the standout collaborations is "Clint Eastwood," a single from their debut album featuring a catchy verse from Del the Funky Homosapien.
On "Stylo" from their "Plastic Beach" album, they teamed up with Yasiin Bey (formerly Mos Def). Gorillaz has also collaborated with Vince Staples for the high-energy track "Ascension" from their "Humanz" album. They also collaborated with Snoop Dogg and house singer Jamie Principle on the funk-infused track "Hollywood" from "The Now Now" album.
Sources:
Gorillaz and Thundercat Share New Song “Cracker Island”: Listen | Pitchfork
New Danger Mouse interview (talks about working with Gorillaz) in LA Weekly | Live Journal
