The Sum Up: Things Fall Apart by The Roots

The Sum Up: Things Fall Apart by The Roots

By 1999, hip-hop was at a crossroads. The genre was reaching commercial heights never seen before, with shiny suits, bling, and radio-friendly anthems dominating the mainstream. But on the other side of the spectrum, The Roots—a group known for their live instrumentation, intricate lyricism, and jazz-infused soundscapes—were crafting a classic that would shift the tide. Things Fall Apart, released on February 23, 1999, wasn’t just an album—it was a statement.

This was The Roots’ breakthrough project, a defining moment that solidified their place as one of the most important and respected hip-hop acts of all time.

The Sound & Hip-Hop Influence

If Things Fall Apart feels cinematic, that’s because it is. The album’s title is a reference to Chinua Achebe’s novel, a story of colonialism and cultural erosion—parallels that could be drawn to hip-hop at the time. The production, handled primarily by Questlove, Scott Storch, and The Grand Wizzards, blended live instrumentation with jazz, boom-bap, and soul, making it an organic and deeply immersive listening experience.

Sonically, it was both underground and mainstream, a rare balance that appealed to hip-hop purists while still capturing a wider audience. This was conscious rap at its peak, proving that music with substance could still make waves.

The Singles & Standout Tracks
• “You Got Me” (feat. Erykah Badu & Eve) – The breakout hit that won Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group at the 2000 Grammy Awards. The hypnotic drums, Erykah Badu’s soulful hook, and Black Thought’s flawless storytelling made it one of The Roots’ most iconic songs.
• “The Next Movement” – A funky, jazz-infused track that feels like a sonic rollercoaster, with Black Thought effortlessly floating over the beat.
• “Act Too (The Love of My Life)” – A poetic tribute to hip-hop, featuring Common, that laid the foundation for his 2002 track of the same name.
• “Adrenaline!” – A hard-hitting underground anthem showcasing The Roots’ lyrical dexterity and raw energy.
• “Step Into the Realm” – A deep-cut classic with a mesmerizing instrumental and introspective lyricism.

The album’s cohesion was its strength—each track felt like a piece of a larger story, contributing to the thematic depth and emotional weight of the project.

Certifications & Success
• Things Fall Apart was certified Platinum, making it The Roots’ best-selling album.
• The album peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200, a huge achievement for an alternative hip-hop group.
• “You Got Me” won a Grammy, further cementing The Roots’ place in the culture.

But beyond the numbers, the impact of the album was immeasurable—it helped define neo-soul, influenced future jazz-rap artists, and proved that hip-hop could be both artistic and commercially viable.

The Lasting Impact

Things Fall Apart was the blueprint for live-band hip-hop, influencing acts like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Anderson .Paak, who seamlessly blend live instrumentation with storytelling. It also helped The Roots secure a permanent place in hip-hop, allowing them to transition into their legendary role as the house band for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

More than two decades later, Things Fall Apart still stands as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. It’s a reminder that hip-hop doesn’t have to be disposable—it can be thoughtful, cinematic, and timeless.

Verdict

This wasn’t just The Roots’ defining album—it was a defining moment for hip-hop itself. If you haven’t revisited Things Fall Apart, now is the time.

Rating: 10/10 – A hip-hop masterpiece that continues to inspire generations.