Editor’s note: This article was initially published in The Daily Gazette, Swarthmore’s online, daily newspaper founded in Fall 1996. As of Fall 2018, the DG has merged with The Phoenix. See the about page to read more about the DG.
Yes, that’s right. Blackalicious, famed Bay-area hip hop duo, are coming to Swarthmore November 5. This is according to Martyna Pospieszalska, chairman of the Large Scale Events Committee (LSE), who confirmed the show this Monday.
Blackalicious, composed of Gift of Gab (T.J. Parker) and Chief Xcel (Xavier Mosley), are best known for insightful rhymes and intense beats. Formed in the early 90s on the UC-Davis campus, they proved an unlikely smash with a first single “Swan Lake” in 1994 and followed up with “Melodica” an EP; both were self-released. As the group found success as the decade progressed, they influenced a host of alternative rap groups, including the Roots and Outkast.
With the very recent release of their second album on a major label, “The Craft,” the group embarks on a major tour, including a stop at Swarthmore College. Martyna Pospieszalska told the Gazette that “I’ve been on LSE for four years; I’ve never been this excited.” She added, “It was pretty much a consensus, from the bands available, that we wanted Blackalicious.” She remained surprised that the committee could come together and pick such a stellar act on such short notice, “It was a big job, but it was a big committee.”
As for the spring event, they are already planning it. “We’re putting out surveys this week; we hope to be more responsive…” Pospieszalska mentioned. And as for names? “Well, the Arcade Fire, Wilco, the Roots…it can only get bigger and better.”
