Last night, hip-hop pioneers De La Soul lit up Jimmy Kimmel Live! with a powerful medley from their brand-new album, Cabin in the Sky. The performance wasn’t just a TV spot — it felt like a moment. A celebration, a tribute, and a re-awakening of one of rap’s most influential groups.
A New Album, a New Era
Cabin in the Sky — released November 21, 2025 — marks De La Soul’s first album in nine years and the first since the heartbreaking loss of founding member Trugoy the Dove (David Jolicoeur) in 2023. The trio’s remaining members, Posdnuos and Maseo, have described the record as living “in that space between loss and light,” balancing grief with gratitude, and reflection with the need to move forward.
The album blends classic De La Soul warmth with modern production and a deep emotional core — a testament to their resilience and their legacy.
A Performance Filled With Heart
On Kimmel, De La Soul opened with the explosive “Run It Back!!”, Posdnuos energizing the crowd while Maseo worked the boards with precision. The stage pulsed with live energy — the kind of performance that reminds you that hip-hop is as much about presence as it is about lyrics.
Then came “The Package”, elevated by the arrival of a full horn section. The brassy swell added warmth and soul, giving the track a dramatic, almost celebratory feel. As the horns moved, the group’s chemistry with them created a vibrant, communal energy that took the performance to another level.
But the most emotional moment arrived when the big screens illuminated Trugoy’s recorded verse, played in full as the group stood back to honor him. The crowd’s reaction said everything — it was a tribute that hit hard, a reminder of how deeply his voice shaped their sound.
More Than Just a Comeback
This performance carried weight. It symbolized healing, perseverance, and a renewed sense of purpose. De La Soul didn’t just show that they’re still here — they showed that they’re evolving, honoring the past while boldly stepping into a new chapter.
For longtime fans, it was cathartic. For newcomers, it was a perfect introduction to the group’s rich emotional depth. And for hip-hop as a whole, it was a celebration of legacy, memory, and artistry.