The Gospel of Hip Hop First Instrument KRS ONE
DO YOU THINK YONGER HIPHOPPERS ARE GONNA READ THIS ?
The Gospel of Hip Hop: First Instrument, the first book from the I Am Hip Hop, is the philosophical masterwork of KRS ONE. Set in the format of the Christian Bible, this 800-plus-page opus is a life-guide manual for members of Hip Hop Kulture that combines classic philosophy with faith and practical knowledge for a fascinating, in-depth exploration of Hip Hop as a life path. Known as “The Teacha,” KRS ONE developed his unique outlook as a homeless teen in Brooklyn, New York, engaging his philosophy of self-creation to become one of the most respected emcees in Hip Hop history. Respected as Hip Hop’s true steward, KRS ONE painstakingly details the development of the culture and the ways in which we, as “Hiphoppas,” can and should preserve its future.
The Teacha also discusses the origination of Hip Hop Kulture and relays specific instances in history wherein one can discover the same spirit and ideas that are at the core of Hip Hop’s current manifestation. He explains Hip Hop down to the actual meaning and linguistic history of the words “hip” and “hop,” and describes the ways in which Hiphoppas can change their current circumstances to create a future that incorporates Health, Love, Awareness, and Wealth (H-LAW).
Committed to fervently promoting self-reliance, dedicated study, peace, unity, and truth, The Teacha has drawn both criticism and worship from within and from outside of Hip Hop Kulture. In this beautifully written, inspiring book, KRS ONE shines the light of truth, from his own empirical research over a 14-year period, into the fascinating world of Hip Hop.
KRS ONE is a philosopher, activist, author, lecturer, and emcee. Since founding canonical Hip Hop act Boogie Down Productions in the mid-1980s, he has released a granite-solid catalog of 19 full-length albums, along with a star-studded list of collaborations. In 1988 he founded the Stop the Violence Movement, a collective of artists, activists, educators, and entertainers exploring the roots of violence while working to promote the development of positive conflict resolution methods; he is currently producing an album celebrating the organization’s 20th anniversary, with contributions by Nelly, Method Man, Busta Rhymes, The Game, Hakiem Green, Grant Parks, Duane “Da Rock” Ramos, and many others. KRS ONE is an accomplished public speaker who has delivered lectures at over 500 colleges, universities, and other venues. In addition to The Gospel of Hip Hop, he is the author of The Science of Rap (1995) and Ruminations (Welcome Rain, 2003). Currently, KRS-One is touring the United States with Stop the Violence, urging America’s urban centers to seek non-violent conflict resolution over revenge and war.
Published by Powerhouse Books, the title is available now at colette.
18 Comments
Leave A CommentLeave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Its nice to see KRS-ONE still at it!!! I have mad respect for him and his work!!! I will be shocked if certain “rappers” from today buy this book let alone put it to good use other than throwing it on a bookshelf just say they bought it. Personally I would love to get one for myself and my nephew.
The problem I have with this “book” is the things that KRS1 has to say about it. There are interviews of him saying it is to replace the BIBLE, that Jesus Christ was not real, but more of a “conscience” concept. Him saying it’s time for the Christian, Judaism, and other faiths need to basically allow the youth of this time to be given over to HIP HOP. Understand, I know people don’t take this thing “that” seriously, but remember that’s Satan’s number one weapon, making people believe he does not exist. There is no manuscript written that has been proven, spiritually nor physically like the bible has.
I remember when I use to live and die hip hop, and I look at what it is doing now to our youth. If you want to ask if anyone will read this..I believe so…and I hope people will really take what’s happening here seriously, cause if you deny Christ before men, He will deny you before His Father. Now has it really come to this? Of course it has and if we read the bible it told us so. Lord help us!
No.
i have to check this out
Ah man idk…Most of these young katts dont even respect some of these old school rappers that paved the way for the new artist…couldn’t imagine them picking up this book…but im damn sure if Gucci mane dropped a book they would pick that shit up quick LoL
some will……………I have to question someone’s philosophy who’s trying to replace the Good Book though……and who is a suspect agent for the Illuminati…..just my opinion….but then I guess it doesn’t really matter anyway
I actually Have this Book…I feel that everyone who is deeply passionate about Hip-Hop should pick it up especially rappers today…Its like the real deal Kinda weird to read at first but You tend to really get the idea and understanding of Hip-Hop and the way it shapes lives and beliefs….I carry it to every studio Session I attend to its like my Hip-Hop Spiritual Rhyme Connector to Music It really helps me In focusing on making a good track For Hip-Hop instead of Just some party joint or whatever. A definite must buy
Props on the post. A crazy lack of comments…I mean I haven’t read the book so I can’t speak on it….and it may be KRS’ lack of fans in this particular arena…post something ’bout Usher and see how many comments people post!
One word 2 answer all….NOPE! Nigga’s don’t read what they don’t feel isn’t important, and rarely read what is important. I HIGHLY doubt that anyone who isn’t REAL about music and the hop-hop genre will pick this up.
Hell no I don’t mess stuff like that so I can’t get stuck down by god. no sir, I’m sorry but thats how I feel. he playin with god and I can’t get down with that.
FUCK THIS!
this nigga just need a new grip.
his music aint relevant, NIGGA SIT DOWN
(so disrespectful)
B-L-A-S-P-H-E-M-Y…NOPE!
I ditto the sentiments of utcpla24, Remarkable, AceLa, and Ac@pella. This MESS is HIGHLY suspect! I don’t play when it comes to blasphemous individuals and entities! That’s why people are not making comments. Despite what some may lead us to believe, this country is still deeply Christian. Playing with God is no joke. We all will face a judgment for our words and actions!
Funny thing about religion…inspired by God yet man made. The Bible, Quran, Torah, Talamud all in my opinion are books, God inspired yet man made. An imperfect being cannot create a perfect religion. Feel me. In fact the Holy Bible as most know it was written by committee just like books of today going through reedits at publishing houses. All these religious books are meant to guide, to teach, based on individual interpretation. So I like KRS’s approach. Sadly those WHO need to read it prolly won’t.
This current Hip Hop generation is not one filled with prolific readers IMO. Why do I think that? Lyrics or lack thereof. But then again, those that WILL read it are prolly those that are seeking something deeper in not only in their music, but in themselves. Truly with this current league of Hip Hop Superhereos once you take away the girls, grills, sex, violence, bling they’ve got nothing. A thick ass book that looks like a Bible, that may make them think, go beyond the surface, I seriously doubt they’ll make it a national best-seller. Like the youngster above telling KRS one to sit down. WTF? Respect ur elders son! You might learn something when they reminisce over you, My God! You’re standing on KRS’ Hip Hop shoulders!
i ordered the book. i have seen him lecture on you tube & thats all i needed to hear. very inspiring. i also want to read his other books, download his music.
The word “Gospel” means good news so this book is “the good news of hip hop”. “There is only One that is good and that is the One who sent Christ, son of the living God, the good news is that he came, died, and was raised from the dead and is living now and forever to pay for the sins of those of us who believe through faith in him and by His grace and mercy we are saved. Christ is alive and is coming back!!!
To all the hip-hopperz Nas, your guys’ “Gods’ Son”, a self proclaimed hip hop prophet, has declared hip-hop dead! SO THIS SO CALLED GOSPEL OF HIP HOP IS DEAD WORD, CHRIST STILL LIVES AND HE IS THE LIVING WORD.
One Love, One God, One Way.
Has anyone read this yet? All I can find is a couple of comments on amazon com which don’t say anything – remember hearing KRS1 for the first time 24 years ago and always kept on eye on what he’s up to. Either few people have read it or those that have don’t want to discuss it online, which I find odd.
I recently came across this site and have enjoyed the content. I look forward to future content and will definatly link to this and tell the people I know. Thanks.