About this album

Sound: "A politically charged tapestry of aggressive beats and incisive lyrics demanding social justice and empowerment."

Where they were

Released in 2003, 'Revolverlution' marked Public Enemy's return after a period of relative quiet following their 1999 album, 'There's a Poison Goin' On'. The group aimed to revitalize their message in a post-9/11 America, emphasizing political commentary amidst changing hip-hop landscapes. This album reflects their ongoing commitment to activism and resilience in the face of adversity.

Why it matters

'Revolverlution' is significant for its bold political messages during a time of national tension, with tracks like 'Son of a Bush' directly critiquing U.S. foreign policy. The album received mixed reviews but showcased Public Enemy's enduring influence on hip-hop, serving as a rallying cry for social justice and activism in music.

Essential tracks

  • "Son of a Bush" — This track critiques George W. Bush’s presidency and the political landscape of the early 2000s, encapsulating the album's urgent message.
  • "Gotta Give the Peeps What They Need" — An energetic opener that sets the tone for the album, blending powerful beats with an unwavering call for community empowerment.
  • "Fight the Power (live Winterthur Switzerland 1992)" — This live rendition captures the raw energy and enduring relevance of Public Enemy's most iconic anthem against systemic oppression.
  • "By the Time I Get to Arizona (The Moleman Mixx)" — A remix that revitalizes their classic protest track with fresh production while maintaining its critical stance against racial injustice.

Release Date

January 1, 2003

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Gotta Give the Peeps What They Need 3:32
  2. 2 Revolverlution 3:01
  3. 3 Miuzi Weighs a Ton (live San Francisco 1999-10-21) 1:47
  4. 4 Put It Up 3:11
  5. 5 Can a Woman Make a Man Lose His Mind? 3:34
  6. 6 PESA #1 0:21
  7. 7 Fight the Power (live Winterthur Switzerland 1992) 3:55
  8. 8 By the Time I Get to Arizona (The Moleman Mixx) 3:57
  9. 9 Post‐Concert Arizona Interview (U2 Zoo Tour) 1:03
  10. 10 Son of a Bush 5:52
  11. 11 54321… Boom 3:37
  12. 12 Welcome to the Terrordome (live Winterthur Switzerland 1992) 3:38
  13. 13 B Side Wins Again (Scattershot remix) 4:54
  14. 14 Get Your Shit Together 4:47
  15. 15 PESA #2 0:30
  16. 16 Shut Em Down (The Functionist version) 5:28
  17. 17 Now A'daze 3:25
  18. 18 Public Enemy No. 1 (Jeronimo Punx Redu) 4:48
  19. 19 The Making of Burn Hollywood Burn 2:46
  20. 20 Gotta Give the Peeps What They Need (DJ Johnny Juice - Paris Revolverlutionary mix) 3:30
  21. 21 What Good Is a Bomb 6:17