Many in their late twenties and early thirties still look back fondly on the early millennium, around the years two-thousand and two-thousand-three, as one of hip-hop's definitive eras. The platinum era, where a handful of incredible producers each moved the game forward with their own wholly unique sound. Though he's currently in the midst of an epic run with albums like Freddie Gibbs' Alfredo, Alchemist was actually part of that era all those years ago, a younger man still turning heads with his hard-hitting production.
Scott Dudelson/Getty Images
Today, on the same day he dropped off a new collaboration album with Freddie Gibbs, Alchemist took a moment to reflect on the year 2001, by way of a throwback Source Magazine story: "Chairmen Of The Board." Highlighting and summarizing some of the time's defining voices, the spread focuses on Dr. Dre, Neptunes, Alchemist ("he may not be a household name just yet"), Mannie Fresh, Rockwilder, Timbaland, Swizz Beatz, and DJ Premier.
On paper, it's clear that we're looking at a one of a kind roster full of legendary beatmakers. Alc took a moment to recognize that very fact, showing his humility with a genuinely wholesome caption. "2001. Source Magazine. Look at the killers i had to swim with!!!!!" he writes. "Every person in this is a god to me. Salute to my comrades. Forever grateful." DJ Premier also took a moment to chime in, generally speaking for all of us by saying "WOW!!! THAT WAS A GOOD YEAR!!!"
What do you think -- was this the best era for producers in hip-hop history?