Pioneering rap artist KRS-One was one of rap’s early superstars. He started with the seminal group Boogie Down Productions in hip-hop’s birthplace – the Bronx, N.Y. BDP released many classic recordings essential to the development of hip-hop – among them “The Bridge Is Over” about their rivalry with the pre-eminent rap crew from Queens, N.Y that was a early predecessor of many of hip-hop’s famous lyrical beefs. Songs like “Criminal Minded” “Why Is That” and “Love’s Gonna Get Cha” were also viewed as classic recordings of the genre, ushering in a more conscious era of rap music.
Born Kris Parker, KRS, now 42, is well- known as a battle rapper and enormously talented freestyler who has often described himself as literally being “hip-hop.” He was one of the founders of the Stop the Violence movement which released the star-studded charity hit single and video “Self-Destruction,” in 1989. KRS also formed the Temple of Hip-Hop and organization geared toward preserving the original culture of hip-hop based on its four essential elements – b-boying, deejaying, graffiti-writing and emceeing.
KRS One’s impact on hip-hop has been immense both musically and socially through his many endeavors to keep the original spirit of hip-hop alive. His career foreshadowed both gangsta and conscious rap and his musical output of 17 albums, most recently a collaboration with former rival, DJ Marley Marl, has made him one of the most prolific and productive rap artists of all time. He’s been in demand as a speaker and has been one of hip-hop’s most vocal representatives for years. With a 20-year career and the respect of most of hip-hop’s elite past and present, KRS-One has cemented his rightful place as one of the most influential artists in hip-hop history.