“It’s Bigger Than Hip-Hop”: Revisiting the Beat, Rhymes, and Revolution of Let’s Get Free

Released February 8, 2000

One of my first introductions to M-1 and stic.man, the duo collectively known as dead prez, was catching their music video for “Hip-Hop” on Rap City. Although I was just a teenager and not completely on my “knowledge-of-self” wave yet, I could immediately recognize and relate to their energy and revolutionary undertones. This was definitely something different compared to the flashy, flamboyant rap dominating that era. Fast forward to one of the best sketch comedy shows in history, Chappelle’s Show, and I was surprised to see the track featured on a mainstream platform. While I couldn’t claim to be a die-hard fan back then, I always had immense respect for their lyrical ability and commitment to their message. Although I eventually tapped into much of their later work—including one of my personal favorites, RBG: Revolutionary But Gangsta—I wanted to revisit their 2000 debut album, Let’s Get Free. It’s safe to say it hits just as hard now as it did back then.

First off, this is pull-no-punches Hip-Hop. Much like the Five-Percent-dominated movement of the late ’80s and early ’90s, dead prez make their intent clear right off the intro with “I’m a African.” Shouting out their camaraderie with the African diaspora and their disdain for the powers-that-be, M-1 and stic.man set the tone off the rip. Out of all the production, this beat is probably the only one that feels distinctly tied to the year 2000, but the lyricism remains timeless. Tracks like “Police State,” “Assassination,” and “Psychology” live up to their names; the project feels more like a revolutionary handbook set to top-tier production than a standard debut album (they even managed to fit in an Animal Farm adaptation with “The Animal in Man”). That being said, the heavy political themes might turn off some listeners, but honestly, this album wasn’t made for that demographic anyway.

The production on this album has held up remarkably well. Outside of the aforementioned lead track, you would be hard-pressed to tell this project is approaching its 30th anniversary. You’ll also spot some recognizable samples throughout—one of the best perks of reviewing classic albums is putting your ear test to work. dead prez do a masterful job of balancing the heavy political commentary with uplifting tracks like “Be Happy,” “Happiness,” and “Mind Sex,” all while dropping gems along the way.

Overall, while many debut albums take the safe route—particularly during that era—dead prez came out of the gate guns blazing on Let’s Get Free. Even if you aren’t typically a fan of political Hip-Hop, there is more than enough substance, sharp rhyme schemes, and classic boom-bap flavor to make this an essential listen for the culture. IT’S BIGGER THAN HIP-HOP… salute.

Album Rating: 👑👑👑👑👑👑👑👑👑½ (9.5/10)

Standout Tracks: Hip-Hop, Police State, Assassination, We Want Freedom, Be Healthy, Psychology, Animal in Man, The Pistol