High and Rising: A Book About De La Soul by Marcus J. Moore

Few hip-hop groups have ever sounded quite like De La Soul. From the moment they burst onto the scene with their kaleidoscopic debut, they rewrote the rules of what rap could be—playful, introspective, sample-heavy, and utterly original. Marcus J. Moore’s High and Rising is the first full-length exploration of this groundbreaking trio, and it’s a must-read for anyone who’s ever nodded their head to “Me Myself and I” or gotten lost in the layers of 3 Feet High and Rising.

Moore, a seasoned music journalist, brings both expertise and genuine affection to this deep dive. He traces the group’s journey from Long Island teenagers to hip-hop innovators, exploring how Posdnuos, Trugoy, and Maseo created a sound that was simultaneously laid-back and revolutionary. This isn’t just a biography—it’s a meditation on creativity, sampling culture, and what it means to stay true to your artistic vision even when the industry pushes back.

What makes this book especially compelling is how Moore connects De La Soul’s story to larger conversations about ownership, legacy, and the often-complicated relationship between artists and their catalogs. Whether you’re a longtime fan or newly curious about the group that helped define alternative hip-hop, High and Rising offers fresh insights and plenty of heart.

Perfect for music lovers, hip-hop heads, and anyone who believes that the best art comes from taking risks and coloring outside the lines.