The Last Poets - Oh My People (1985)

With their politically charged raps, taut rhythms, and dedication to raising Black consciousness, the Last Poets almost single-handedly laid the groundwork for the emergence of hip-hop. Formed in 1969, the group's combination of incendiary, politically charged verses and Afro-centric musical accompaniment, usually informed by jazz, became wildly influential, and 1970's "The Last Poets" and 1971's "This Is Madness" were unlikely hits. 

The group embraced a more ambitious blend of jazz and poetry on 1972's "Chastisement", but by the end of the '70s they'd quietly disbanded. After the rise of hip-hop reminded the world of their vital influence, the Last Poets returned with 1985's "Oh My People", and they enjoyed a second act throughout the '90s. 

As American politics became turbulent following the election of Donald Trump, the Last Poets returned to the studio, as fiery and relevant as ever, for 2018's "Understand What Black Is".

"Oh My People" was produced by Bill Laswell and released in 1985 on the Cellloid label.

Tracklist:

A1 Get Movin' 6:41
A2 This Is Your Life 6:32
A3 What Will You Do 4:52
B1 Oh My People 7:32
B2 Hold Fast 6:19
B3 Parting Company 4:22

The Last Poets - Oh My People (1985)

(192 kbps, cover art included)