Malik Izaak Taylor aka Phife Dawg of A Tribe Called Quest passed away one year ago today. I still can't believe he's gone & that it's already been a year. His passing hit our culture hard and it still saddens the teenager inside of me that grew up on Tribe. As fans, our connection to Phife is through the music - that's where we can support and honor his legacy. So, as I think back on Phife's career, it's his verse from 'Buggin Out' that was one of the defining moments in his career, and it was definitely worthy of 'Dopest Rhyme Of The Month.' Phife kicked in the door with 'Yo! Microphone check one two what is this..." all while that bassline had your neck snappin' along. 'Low End Theory' is the definition of a classic. My thoughts are with Phife's family and loved ones today (especially Jarobi), and Tribe's music will definitely be turnt up in my headphones. Rest in Beats, Phife; always on point! Credit: New York Times, March 24, 2016. Hip-Hop Quotable below.