Q-Tip’s stance on the upcoming A Tribe Called Quest documentary, “The Travels of A Tribe Called Quest,” is still somewhat unclear, as he’s only expressed his feelings about the movie via Twitter. Earlier in January, Q-Tip called the film unfinished and hinted at “being taken advantage of,” while talking about the movie on his Twitter feed. When director Michael Rapaport premiered the film at the Sundance Film Festival, Phife appeared but Q-Tip did not.
Tribe member Phife Dawg recently told New York magazine he also had reservations about showing up at the premiere of the film, but when he arrived at Sundance, he was supportive.
“I spoke to my mom and she pretty much put the nail in the coffin: ‘You better go and enjoy this, because it’s something that doesn’t happen every day,” Phife told New York magazine. During an emotional moment at Sundance, Phife addressed the crowd directly about his initial misgivings.
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“I want to let you all know that I’m not that bad of a guy,” Phife added. “But it is real life and I’m glad Mr. Rapaport was able to bring it to you in such a great way. I listened to your guys’ responses throughout the movie. Q-Tip has no idea how many people love him…I just wish they were all here to witness how much love you guys showed this movie.”
Ali Shaheed Muhammad had a prior commitment in the UK, but he was also supportive of the film when recently interviewed by The Hip Hop Chronicle.
“I think you’ll be well-pleased with the documentary,” Muhammad said. “It actually premieres right now…in a few hours. I’m out here, and I wish I was there with the team to support it. But I think for those people who are real, true fans of A Tribe Called Quest, we felt that sentiment. We’ve heard it from other people, especially with certain things that were leaked out about the film. Believe that we are really A Tribe Called Quest fans in addition to being in the group. We understand.”
