Amplified (Q-Tip album)

Amplified is the debut solo studio album by American hip hop artist Q-Tip, released on November 2, 1999, by Arista Records. It marked a significant departure from the jazz-infused sound Q-Tip was known for as a member of A Tribe Called Quest, embracing a more experimental and futuristic production style.

The album features production from Q-Tip himself, as well as Jay Dee (J Dilla), The Ummah, and others. Its sound is characterized by a blend of electronic elements, funk influences, and Q-Tip's signature laid-back flow. Lyrically, Amplified explores themes of love, social commentary, and reflections on the hip-hop landscape.

Notable tracks from the album include "Vivrant Thing," "Breathe and Stop," and "Let's Ride." Amplified was a commercial success, reaching platinum status and solidifying Q-Tip's position as a solo artist. While some critics initially expressed mixed opinions regarding the album's stylistic shift, it has since been recognized as a significant and influential work in Q-Tip's discography and in the late 1990s hip-hop scene. The album helped pave the way for a new wave of experimental and innovative hip-hop artists.