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The Seed (2.0): A Genre-Defying Track by The Roots
Introduction
The Roots, featuring Cody Chesnutt, released "The Seed (2.0)" as a single on March 31, 2003. This song from their fifth album Phrenology (2002) is a reimagined version of Chesnutt's "The Seed" and showcases a fusion of rock, hip-hop, and psychedelic soul. This remix of Cody ChesnuTT’s original is a modern-day update on Muddy Waters' observation that “the blues had a baby, and they named it rock and roll.”
Background and Composition
The song originated from Cody Chesnutt's album "The Headphone Masterpiece," with The Roots' drummer and frontman Questlove discovering the track and seeing potential for a collaboration. The Roots reworked the song, adding their own lyrics and melodies while keeping the essence of Chesnutt's original composition.
"The Seed (2.0)" features a prominent guitar riff and a rock-infused beat, a departure from The Roots' earlier, more classically hip hop-oriented work. The song's lyrics discuss themes of growth, legacy, and artistic creation, metaphorically likening the creation of music to the sowing of seeds for future generations.
Music and Reception
Critics praised the song for its genre-blending style and catchy hook. It was described as 2002's freshest roots rock and avant rap track by Robert Christgau and listed by Pitchfork at number 330 in "The Top 500 Tracks of the 2000s".
Chart Performance
"The Seed (2.0)" charted internationally, reaching the top 10 in Denmark and Finland, and was also ranked as one of the best rock songs of the decade by Rolling Stone.
Cover Versions
The track's influence extended to various artists, including American rock band Person L and jazz singer Kurt Elling, who covered the song, adding their unique takes to the original composition.
Conclusion
The Roots' "The Seed (2.0)" remains an enduring piece in the landscape of early 2000s music, remembered for its innovative blend and cultural impact.
Personnel
- Black Thought – lead vocals
- Cody Chesnutt – guitar, vocals
- Questlove – drums, production
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External Links
Official The Roots Website
Music Video for "The Seed (2.0)"
References
Robert Christgau's review
Pitchfork's "The Top 500 Tracks of the 2000s"
Rolling Stone's best rock songs of the decade
Cover version by Person L
Cover version by Kurt Elling
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