Formed from Long Island, NY roots in 1987, the trio is known as De La Soul changed the landscape of hip-hop as we knew it. Now, for an incredible 30 years, they have rocked us with inscrutable samplings, whimsically irreverent lyrics, social commentary, light rhythm, and laid-back rhymes. They have gained respect within and outside the hip-hop community with their contributions to rap, as well as jazz, funk, soul, and alternative genres. Not only are their musical innovations acclaimed and respected worldwide, but they paved a path for many alternative rap groups to come after them.