I consider myself to have a very eclectic taste in music with a palette that appreciates a wide range of styles. However, old school hip-hop has a special place in my heart. I love the powerful history behind this genre and its ability to unite and educate a community.
KRS (Knowledge Reigns Supreme)-ONE, also known as "The Teacha" and "Blastmaster", was one of the first artists to gain recognition and respect as an emcee. Born and raised in the Bronx, KRS began his career in a socially conscious hip-hop group called Boogie Down Productions . He is currently in the midst of his 2015 international tour. KRS frequently visits colleges and different speaking venues all over the nation covering topics on afrocentrism, politics, government, and his own revisionist views of history, and the philosophy of hip hop.
So what was it like being in the presence of a legend?
Empowering. Enlightening. Refreshing. Overwhelming. All in all, pretty dang awesome! He came out with an energy that exploded all over the room. KRS made several audio adjustments before he even began his performance; repeatedly pointing his thumb in an upward arrow signifying the tech crew to raise the volume. He was there to party. What kind of rapper goes crowd surfing at the beginning of the show? "The Teacha" that's who!
This man loves hip hop. It is his life, and that comes across on stage like no other performer I've ever watched. He literally embraces his audience. Taking breaks to sign memorabilia, albums, photos, or whatever is handed to him, right in the middle of performing. He gladly offered to take selfies and photos with every last fan in the building! (Mine came out ridiculously blurry) It was a night I'll never forget.
KRS-ONE, "Drug Wars", Gainesville FL
KRS-ONE, freestyle, Gainesville FL
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