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The Beat Boxed: A Tribe Called Quest

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A Tribe Called Quest is not only one of my favorite hip-hop groups, but one of the best hip hop groups of all times!  Their song “I Left My Wallet in El Segundo” is the perfect follow-up to the “Oh my god I lost my wallet” kind of weekend I just had.  This song is off of their first album People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm and is going to be in my head for weeks! This mix of aphrocentric rhymes, jazzy soundscapes, and their laid back vibe is what made them one of the most influential artists of the 1990’s and even today. Their music addresses social issues and promotes a positive outlook on life and just having a good time. This song “I Left My Wallet in El Segundo” is not really about the social issues, but definitely about a good time. And I don’t think they made it to El Segundo! I think they might still be in Barstow…what do you think?

Check out the video:


I don’t really think it would be fair to “box” A Tribe Called Quest, but let’s get them a place where they can kick it, because we know they can!  Now what better place to kick it than at the Hotel Silken Puerto America in Madrid.  This hotel is “an idea of freedom come true, a gathering space merging different cultures and ways of interpreting architecture and design.”  This hotel is a collaboration of 19 of the top designers and architects from around the world that have each created their own unique rooms within the hotel.  I see such a strong connection between this music of A Tribe Called Quest and this hotel. Both are a collaboration of such a powerful group of artists that at their respective times have created something unique to the world.  I think this room by Mariscal y Salas may have just been designed for A Tribe Called Quest!

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Now let me take this just one step further outside the box as I create a modern pop-up “kick-it” stop perfect for the Tribe as they continue along their instinctive travels. I was so inspired by how gorgeous the bright patterns and bold colors were as they contrasted with the bright sun and dry desert in this video.

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I love this low-lying pleat sofa and it looks like it could almost be the backseat of a vintage 1970’s car.  Pop that baby out, unroll your patchwork cowhide rug, scatter around your Moroso cubes from the M’Afrique collection, hang your brass ball pendants, and you are ready to kick it just like A Tribe called Quest did on their way to El Segundo.  Oh and don’t forget your sombrero, you’ll need it in that hot desert sun!

1. Black and White Geo Puzzle Batik 2. Brass Ball Pendants 3. Desert Photo 4. Suno NY Fashion 5. Modus Pleat Sofa System 6. Willy Rizzo Dining Chair 7. Mosaic Cowhide Rug 8. Moroso M’Afrique Collection Cubes