..these are all pertinent questions, but i think that the important thing to remember here is creative composure. to say that stankonia will influence the overall structure of music today, is an understatement. however, there are so many avenues yet to be explored in this industry of vision and sound, that it would be premature to assume that one album or collective work will redirect the focus of mainstream music.

as always, great artist influence the developement of their peers. stankonia has provided much of the hip hop community the opportunity to rediscover themselves and their foundation in this industry. outkast, has, and continues to push well beyond the boundaries of mainstream music. by decidedly choosin' to defy the powers that be of modern commercialism, they have seemingly become the forerunners in music @ this time. do not, however, forget the fact that the roots have also contributed to the evolution of this art form. the message within their music is jus' as innovative as the pioneers of this genre. by redefining the structure of a rap group/band, they have forever altered our vision and understanding of what a rap group is, or has the potential to be.

will the roots continue to push further into their collective-selves and contribute to the redevelopement of modern music?.. yes. will they bring forth an album, both productive and creative?.. yes. will said album include collaborations with all of the artist that currently surround the core of the roots' family?.. perhaps. these questions may be important to some, but for me, the most important question is whether or not consumers will be prepared for what the roots have to offer. will the average consumer be willing to accept the changes and progression found on their recent effort. so, in all actuality, the question should be posed to the fans, not the artist.


"..i hope we feel like this foreva, foreva eva, forEVA EVA!.." {andre 3000, ms. jackson}

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" ..and miles to go before i sleep... "

{AIM: CyrenYoung}