Bonus Tracks, Instrumentals, and Unreleased Tracks in this Special Anniversary Package
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Grind Date, De La Soul has released a special edition of the 2004 album, now available on vinyl and CD through BMG. The re-release includes the original album along with previously unreleased bonus tracks and instrumental versions, providing collectors and new listeners alike with a deeper look into the studio sessions that shaped this significant album in the group’s discography.
The Grind Date, which debuted in 2004, features a mix of introspective and playful themes, paired with De La Soul's signature lyrical style and innovative production. The album includes collaborations with several notable artists of the time, including MF Doom, Ghostface Killah, Carl Thomas, and Common.
The re-release offers two distinct formats: a limited-edition 140g splatter double vinyl and a CD package. The vinyl edition includes instrumental versions of four key tracks from the album, while the CD features the instrumental tracks along with two never-before-released songs, “Bigger” and “Respect,” recorded during the same sessions.
In reflecting on the album's significance, Posdnuos (Pos) noted, “With the 20th anniversary of The Grind Date, we’re glad to see how the album has stood the test of time. It still feels fresh, and the lyrics remain relevant, which is a testament to the work we did. This re-release gives us the opportunity to revisit that era, especially since it was the first album we did outside of our relationship with Tommy Boy."
The Grind Date anniversary editions are available for purchase in both CD and vinyl formats. Fans can stream or buy the album through the available platforms linked above.
The Grind Date 20th Anniversary Tracklisting
1. The Future
2. Verbal Clap
3. Much More (feat. Yummy)
4. Shopping Bags (She Got From You)
5. The Grind Date
6. Church
7. Doo Good In Church (Skit)
8. It’s Like That (feat. Carl Thomas)
9. He Comes (feat. Ghostface Killah)
10. Days of Our Lives (feat. Common)
11. Come On Down (feat. Flavor Flav)
12. No (feat. Butta Verses)
13. Rock Co. Kane Flow (feat. MF DOOM)
14. Shoomp (feat. Sean Paul)
Bonus Tracks
1. Bigger (feat. Choklate)
2. Respect
3. Verbal Clap (Instrumental)
4. Shopping Bags (She Got From You) (Instrumental)
5. The Grind Date (Instrumental)
6. Days of Our Lives (feat. Common) (Instrumental)
In celebration of The Grind Date's 20th anniversary, De La Soul has launched a brand-new microsite where fans can share motivational messages or personal notes of gratitude. Whether it’s a shout-out to those who inspire you or a simple thank you to someone who's made an impact, your words will be featured on the official De La Soul Grind Date calendar. Plus, the first 100 fans to post their messages could receive a response from the band themselves. Get involved and share your message here: wearedelasoul.com/the-grind-date.
In addition, De La Soul has made a rare gem available to the public: Clear Lake Auditorium, a sought-after EP originally released in 1994 for a select group of DJs, is now available digitally and in limited-edition CD and vinyl formats. Housed in a sea green sleeve via A.O.I./Chrysalis, this release includes four tracks from the Buhloone Mindstate era, featuring a special collaboration with A Tribe Called Quest and other legendary hip-hop artists: listen or buy here.
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