Long Island’s finest, De La Soul and Public Enemy’s Chuck D come together for the message-driven song “The People”. Although the track was originally supposed to get released back in June, De La held off due to the Chuck D and Hot 97 controversy in which the PE front man voiced his opinion on the constant use of the ‘n-word’ during Hot 97’s Summer Jam this year. Whilst De La Soul did intend on dropping the single around Black Friday, with the recent verdict pertaining to the Ferguson case announced, the group felt that there couldn’t have been a more important time. In a statement, De La Soul wrote:

“The idea for the song came from a couple of samples, and the track’s vibe is earnest and has a pressing tone to it. The lyrics are commentaries of our struggles and successes, our weaknesses and strengths… the experiences… and trials and tribulations we have faced as human beings, a race, and as individuals. Lyrically Chuck brings a sense of authority and urgency. The power in his voice demands your attention. With Chuck on the track this is a dream come true for us.”

Stream “The People” below.