John Bush of AllMusic called "People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm" "the quiet beginning of a revolution in non-commercial hip-hop." "Pitchforks Kris Ex stated that with the album the group "created and refined a template for '90s hip-hop that was street-astute, worldly, and more inspirational than aspirational". In a commemorative article for "XXL", Michael Blair wrote "What A Tribe Called Quest ultimately became the pioneers of, and was on full display throughout the production on their debut album, was a certain proficiency in illustrating and honoring a diverse array of genres that preceded them. In what is mostly attributed to Q-Tip’s deep appreciation and understanding of those definitive genres, Tribe’s sound was perpetually laced with elements of Jazz, Soul, R&B, and Funk". Blair concluded that ""People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm" was immensely groundbreaking, and will eternally maintain its relevance within the culture and construction of hip-hop".