Synopsis
Sway, King Tech, and DJ Revolution present "The Anthem" as a showcase for a heavyweight lineup of MCs. The video moves through individual performance setups, giving each rapper a moment to deliver his verse with a distinct visual presence. Eminem, RZA, Xzibit, KRS-One, Kool G Rap, Pharoahe Monch, Tech N9ne, Chino XL, and Jayo Felony contribute to the posse cut, while the editing keeps the focus on sharp deliveries, DJ culture, and the collective energy of late-1990s underground hip hop.
Factoids & Trivia
- "The Anthem" was released in 1999 as a single and promotional music video from the album "This or That," issued by Interscope Records on June 15, 1999.
- The track brings together Sway and King Tech's Wake Up Show circle with an unusually large guest lineup: RZA, Eminem, Xzibit, Pharoahe Monch, Kool G Rap, Jayo Felony, Chino XL, Tech N9ne, and KRS-One.
- The song exists in several forms, including main, radio, instrumental, and a cappella versions. The main version runs for roughly four and a half minutes.
- The video has a straightforward posse-cut format rather than a narrative concept. Its structure reflects the song's central appeal: a succession of recognizable MCs taking turns in the spotlight.
- "The Anthem" helped introduce Tech N9ne to a much wider hip hop audience while he was still an emerging artist. His appearance alongside established figures such as KRS-One, Kool G Rap, RZA, and Eminem has remained one of the track's most frequently noted features.
- The album "This or That" was built around the reputation of Sway and King Tech's "Wake Up Show," a radio program known for presenting established and developing hip hop artists.