Although De La Soul's first album, 3 Feet High and Rising is widely regarded in the hip-hop community as a classic, De La Soul is Dead proves the group's virtually unmatched creativity. The album's title is in reaction to De La Soul's labelling of "hippies" following their debut release. Determined to show the hip-hop world that they were not to be messed with, De La Soul's second album is significantly edgier and controversial than their first release. Despite the fact that they clearly did not want to be labelled as "hippies", they also did not want to be labelled as "hardcore". The album's 13th track, "Afro Connections At A Hi 5 (In The Eyes Of The Hoodlum)", is a direct stab at the emerging gansta rap of the early 90s.

The theme throughout the album is WRMS, the radio station with a sexy smooth DJ. Also, frequent reference is made to the "BK Lounge" (Burger King). Although the lyrics on the album are top-notch, it is the production by Prince Paul that really stands out - far more advanced than in 3 Feet High and Rising.

Sound samples

• De La Soul's "Oodles of O's"

Track list

1. Intro
2. Oodles Of O's
3. Talkin' Bout Hey Love
4. Pease Porridge
5. Skit 1
6. Johnny's Dead AKA Vincent Mason (Live From The B.K. Lounge)
7. Roller Skating Jam Named "Saturdays", A
8. WRMS' Dedication To The Bitty
9. Bitties In The B.K. Lounge
10. Skit 2
11. My Brother's A Basehead
12. Let, Let Me In
13. Afro Connections At A Hi 5 (In The Eyes Of The Hoodlum)
14. Rap De Rap Show
15. Millie Pulled A Pistol On Santa
16. Who Do U Worship - (bonus track)
17. Skit 3
18. Kicked Out The House
19. Pass The Plugs
20. Not Over Till The Fat Lady Plays The Demo
21. Ring Ring Ring (Ha Ha Hey)
22. WRMS: Cat's In Control
23. Skit 4
24. Shwingalokate
25. Fanatic Of The B Word
26. Keepin' The Faith
27. Skit 5