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KRS-One

KRS-ONE—Hip Hop Master Teacher

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KRS-One Biography

THE PATH OF THE TEACHA Every culture produces its own “keeper”. Every culture produces its own principles, its own history, its own advocates, and its own prophet pointing the way to a higher quality of life. For the urban-street culture known in the world today as “Hip Hop”, KRS-One is all of the above. Appearing on the rap scene in 1986 as Boogie Down Productions releasing his first hit single “South Bronx” with the late DJ Scott La Rock, KRS “the one” made it clear that Hip Hop was going to have to take itself a lot more serious.

KRS, an acronym for ““Knowledge Reigning Supreme”, has been called the “conscience of Hip Hop” (Rolling Stone), “the greatest live emcee ever” (The Source), the “spokesperson for Hip Hop” (Wall Street Journal), “master teacher” (Zulu Nation) and the “son of Hip Hop” (Kool DJ Herc).

With 20 published albums to his credit and his numerous appearances with other artists, KRS-One has literally written the most rhymes in Hip Hop’s history. In the 1990s as “hip-hop” grew more and more commercialized and corporate, it was KRS-One who openly rejected such cultural exploitation and grounded Hip Hop in its original principles of peace, love, unity and safely having fun.

Teaching everything from self-creation to stopping violence; from vegetarianism to transcendental meditation, from the establishment of Hip Hop Appreciation Week (every third week in May), to establishing Hip Hop as an international culture at the United Nations (2001), KRS-One has single-handedly held the history and original arts of Hip Hop together now for over two decades.

In addition to lecturing at over 500 universities in the United States and publishing three ground-breaking books; “The Science of Rap” (1995), “Ruminations” (2003), and the Gospel of Hip Hop” (2009), KRS-One has also established the Stop The Violence Movement (1989), influenced the creation of the “West-Coast All-Stars’ anti-gang anthem “We’re All In The Same Gang” (1990), warned the Hip Hop community against giving up their humanity for technological advancement (H. E. A. L.—Human Education Against Lies-1991), and has established the Temple of Hip Hop for the spiritual exploration of Hip Hop’s culture (1996). It was KRS-One who first argued that “rap is something we do; Hip Hop is something we live” and introduced the “I am Hip Hop” philosophy in 1994 which Black Entertainment Television uses as the title of their Hip Hop Lifetime Achievement Award today. Without question, KRS-One has been the loudest voice for the actual preservation and expansion of Hip Hop worldwide. He is unquestionably the most influential Hip Hop icon ever!

Not only is KRS-One Hip Hop’s first official teacher and true philosopher, as an emcee/rapper, he is considered the best live Hip Hop emcee of all time! His freestyle abilities are amazing! KRS-One’s concert style is high-energy! A mixture of rap, reggae, spoken word and even classical music, KRS-One reminds you as to why you fell in love with Hip Hop. Always a refreshing break from mainstream rap content, KRS-One delivers an intense street-poet performance that leaves any audience rethinking their approach to Hip Hop and its culture. KRS-One is a must see concert and a mandatory lecture for anyone really interested in the true essence of Hip Hop and how to successfully live the culture.

These days, KRS-One finds himself in high demand amongst younger and younger audiences. Whether it’s his interviews on the BEEF DVD series, or his philosophical books, or any one of his online lectures, or U-Tube performance clips, or his seemingly endless stream of recorded music, KRS-One enjoys a solid respect from millions of people seeking authenticity in music and lyrics today. Through his “Temple of Hip Hop” preservation society and ministry, KRS-One continues to share his unique knowledge of Hip Hop to younger audiences eager to hear the ‘teacha’ speak.

1965—Born Lawrence, August 20 th in Park Slope Brooklyn New York. His mother’s name is Jacqueline. 1966—Began learning to walk. Began exploring the surrounding world. 1966—Brother, Kenneth is born July 9 th . 1967—Learning to speak. Kool DJ Herc and family immigrates from Kingston Jamaica to the Bronx New York. 1968—Developed a love for animals. Began home schooling of African Studies. 1969—September-Enters pre-school. Begins to display talent in art. Jacqueline gives tests and homework at home. 1970—Moves to Harlem, New York. Jacqueline marries Johnny Lee Parker and he becomes Lawrence’s and Kenneth’s step-father. Introduced to the spiritual life by mother Jacqueline. 1971—Young Lawrence enters kindergarten and continues home study; mostly African history, religion and English grammar. Visits the “Tree of Life” book store in Harlem New York with mother Jacqueline. Begins a comic book and toy collection. Young Lawrence is influenced by James Brown and the Jackson Five. Enters first grade. 1972—Moves to 1600 Sedgwick Avenue in the Bronx. Enters second grade. First writings include poetry to his mother. Home schooling continues; African history, religion and English grammar. 1973—Began to experience the “jams” (free public neighborhood parties) or “block parties” at Cedar Park, University Avenue and at the 1520 Sedgwick Avenue park. Enters third grade; very unpopular and quiet. Aspires to be an animal doctor. Begins an appreciation for music, art and philosophy. 1974—Begins street knowledge training. Home schooling continues. Dreams and visions of divine purpose begin to occur. Breakin, M.C.-ing, graffiti writing and deejayin are all being reintroduced and perfected during this time. Enters fourth grade. 1975—Moves to Flatbush Brooklyn. Begins studying the Bible. Rastafarianism and home schooling dominates Lawrence’s education as he enters fifth grade. Begins practicing yoga, meditation and fasting. Sister Chanelle is born, April 15 th . 1976—Dreams and visions of divine purpose reveal that Young Lawrence has special work to do in the fields of music, philosophy and art. Jacqueline confirms the dreams of her son through astrology and numerology. Home-made cassette tapes of live M.C.-ing and D.J.-ing began to circulate around Brooklyn. 1977—Inspired to become an M.C. after the New York City blackout, young Lawrence took on the name “Larry Gee”. 1978—Runs away from home for several hours after reading Matthew chapter11, verse 37 and chapter 12, verse 48 amongst other verses. Begins recording live “pause” tapes with a D.J. and M.C. friend named Neville T. 1979—After purchasing “King Tim the Third” by the Fat back Band, a week later Jacqueline purchases “Rapper’s Delight” by the Sugar Hill Gang. Young Lawrence is introduced to rap on vinyl records. Begins a study of metaphysical philosophers. 1980—Expands upon rhyme writing with Nevelle T and his brother Kenny along with Kenny’s school friends Daryl D and Master Key (Kevin). Aspires to be an M.C. and a philosopher/mystic. Runs away from home for a month before being picked-up by truant officers and returned home. 1981—Jacqueline begins to purchase one Sugar Hill records artist per week; Grand Master Flash and the Furious Five. Funky Four plus One More, the Treacherous Three, Sequence, etc. Larry and Kenny are deeply influenced. However, after a final argument with his mother, young Lawrence (Larry Gee) leaves home never to return again; he takes up shelter at the Brooklyn Public Library, Wingate High School Park and Prospect Park. 1982—Attends both Hip Hop and Reggae “jams” at Wingate Park and Prospect Park in Brooklyn. Introduced to Christian Science, Lawrence begins studying “The Game Of Life”. Metaphysical training intensifies. Officially homeless, young Lawrence begins pursuing his childhood “dreams and visions” as a philosophical poet/teacher. 1983—Walks across the Williamsburg Bridge from Brooklyn to Manhattan ending up at the east third street men’s shelter in the Bowery of Manhattan’s lower eastside. There young Lawrence would meet the Hare Krishnas who would feed the homeless and teach the Bagavad-Gita. It was here that cynical security guards at the third street men’s shelter would begin to make fun of young Lawrence by calling him “Krsna”. Adopted-son Randy is born, July 18 th . 1983—Young Lawrence enters the Lacombe Avenue Group Home in the Bronx operated by the Catholic Guardian Society. There he meets a graffiti writer named Zore who shows Lawrence how to “tag” his new name “Krsna”. Soon Lawrence would drop the “na” in “Krsna” and simply use “Krs” pronounced as “Chris”. 1984—Completes the General Equivalency Diploma exam. Religious and philosophical studies intensify. “KRS” adds a “One” to the end of his name signifying the “original KRS”, the “first KRS”, and/or the “best KRS”. Such was common for popular graffiti writers to add a “one” or a “1” to the end of their tags. KRS meets Christine (first girlfriend). 1985—August 20 th KRS leaves the Lacombe Avenue group home to further pursue his recording career. KRS and Christine take up shelter at the YMCA on 34 th Street and 9 th Avenue in Manhattan. KRS is arrested for defacing public property with graffiti. 1985—Inspired by T-La Rock, Kool Moe Dee, and Melle Mel, “KRS” develops an off-beat rhyme style and begins to spar with other local M.C.s. KRS’s relationship with Christine ends. KRS returns to the Third Street men’s shelter in the lower eastside of Manhattan meeting I.C.U. (Delroy Hutchinson) along the way. Here, KRS, I.C.U., Jerry Levi 167 and others are transferred to the 166 th Street and Boston Road men shelter in the Bronx. 1985—Graffiti writer and shelter security guard “Funk Master” from the “The Rascals” (T.R.) introduces “KRS” to producer Ced- Gee. Scott Sterling (Scott La Rock) takes a job as a social worker at the 166 th Street and Boston Road Amory men’s shelter in the Bronx. KRS begins a theological study of Christ Consciousness and the life of Jesus while being introduced to the Nation of Islam by the popularity of the Five Percenters. KRS-One meets Scott Sterling (DJ Scott La Rock) at the Boston Road Amory men’s shelter in the Bronx; Scott was his social worker. 1985—Scott La Rock invites KRS-One to Broadway Repertory Theatre at 145 th Street and Broadway in upper Manhattan. Here, KRS is introduced to Hip Hop’s late night club life. From here KRS would eventually begin regularly hanging-out at Danceteria, The Roxy and Latin Quarters all in Manhattan. 12” single “Latoya” by Just-Ice (Sleeping Bag Records) is published. 1985— Advised Cut Master DC on the production of his 12” single “Brooklyn’s In The House” (Zakia Records). KRS officially leaves homeless life when I.C.U. offers KRS a room in his new apartment at Milbrook Projects in the Bronx. KRS meets Ramona Scott (Ms. Melodie). 1985—12” single, “Advance” produced by Scott La Rock written by KRS-One featuring the Celebrity Three; Levi 167, MC Quality and KRS-One (Zakia Records) is published. Arrested for “hopping the train” (not paying the fare). 1985—Inspired by Reggae legend Shinehead, KRS-One develops a new Hip Hop Reggae style and popularizes Jamaican dance hall terminologies in rap music. 12” single “Success Is The Word” (Sleeping Bag Records) featuring KRS-One, Scott La Rock and Kenny Beck is published. 1985—KRS-One and Scott La Rock incorporate Boogie Down Productions and record the songs “Elementary” and “Criminal Minded”. Scott La Rock begins “shopping” Boogie Down Production’s music to every independent and mainstream record label. KRS begins a study into criminal justice and general sociology. Personal journal begins. Lawrence marries Ramona (Ms. Melodie). 1985—Scott La Rock takes beat boxer Derrick Jones “under his wing” and introduces him to KRS-One who changes his name to “D-Nice”. After being turned down by every recording label of the day, Boogie Down Productions inks a deal with independent label “Rock Candy Records” releasing the song “Crack Attack” warning people about the newly emerging crack-cocaine drug scene. 1986—Mr. Magic (Juice Crew) rejects Boogie Down Production’s “demo”. KRS-One writes an answer song entitled “South Bronx” answering M.C. Shan’s and DJ Marley Marl’s song “Queensbridge” which Mr. Magic was part of. M.C. Shan then answered KRS-One and Scott La Rock with a song entitled “Kill That Noise” to which KRS-One promptly answered back with a song entitled “The Bridge Is Over”. After that, the battle ended with Roxanne Shante’ having the final word on a song entitled “Have A Nice Day”. KRS-One meets Willie Dee AKA Ill Will. 1986—Ced-G, Kool Keith and Moe Love form the “Ultra Magnetic M.C.s”. KRS-One and Scott La Rock begin training Scottie Morris (Manager Mo) for tour management. KRS-One and Scott La Rock perform their first show at the “Devils Nest” on West Tremont Avenue in the Bronx. 1987—KRS-One and Scott La Rock publish their first album entitled “Criminal Minded”. 1987—KRS-One and Scott La Rock retain the legal services of attorney Jay D. Kramer. KRS-One battles Melle Mel at The Latin Quarter for $1000.00 cash. Ice-T invites KRS-One and Scott La Rock to Los Angeles. They meet A&R executive Benny Medina who offers 275,000.00 to sign to Warner Brothers Records. Three days later, back in the Bronx, Scott La Rock is killed attempting to settle a dispute between D-Nice and another person. Scott La Rock would be the first in a list of major Hip Hop figure to fall to gun violence. KRS-One performs at Madison Square Garden with Run DMC, Beastie Boys, Doug E Fresh, and others. 1987— KRS-One produces a Just-Ice album entitled “Kool and Deadly” (Sleeping Bag Records). KRS-One attends a Zulu Nation meeting at the Latin Quarter where Afrika Bambaataa called for the unity of Hip Hop from coast to coast. B.D.P.s Willie Dee belonged to Zulu Nation’s-chapter 5. After Scott’s death Warner Brothers retracts their $275,000.00 deal citing that they were “interested in the whole group”. With the help of Jay Kramer, KRS-One inks a deal with Jive Records worth $300,000.00. 1988—KRS-One not only publishes the classic album “By All Means Necessary” (Jive Records) revealing such songs as “Stop The Violence” and “My Philosophy”, KRS-One also produces “The Desolate One” for Just-Ice (Sleeping Bag Records), a 12” single for artist Steady B entitled “Serious” (Jive Records), develops the “Emancipation Procrastination” lecture taught at Yale University and then goes on the historical Dope Jam Tour which featured Ice-T, Biz Markie, Doug E Fresh, Kool Moe Dee, Eric B and Rakim. 1989— February, KRS meets Simone at Power Play Studios in Queens. 1989—At the request of Jive Records A&R Ann Carli, KRS-One launches the “Stop The Violence Movement” with an all-star collaborative song entitled “Self-Destruction” produced by D-Nice. Video directed by Ralph McDaniel (Classic Concepts). 1989—Still performing under the name of Boogie Down Productions, KRS-One publishes his third album entitled “Ghetto Music: The Blueprint Of Hip Hop, and releases 12” singles “Jack Of Spades”, “Why Is That” and “You Must Learn”. Scottie Morris (Manager Moe) is fired. KRS begins to use the term “metaphysician” when referring to himself on album artwork and liner notes. Travels to Jamaica to produce Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers at Tuff Gong Studios. 1989—Produces legendary Reggae duo Sly and Robbie for an album entitled “Silent Assassins” which featured B.D.P.’s Willie Dee, Queen Latifah, and newcomer The Shah of Brooklyn. KRS begins a series of tours to Europe bringing “conscious” Hip Hop as well as “Hip Hop Reggae to the region. Executive produced Harmony’s album “Let There Be Harmony” (Virgin Records). Appears on the Arsenio Hall Show and makes a cameo appearance in the comedy film “I’m Gonna Get You Sucka” starring Kenon Ivory Wayans. 1989—Produces the album “The Desolate One” (Sleeping Bag Records) for rapper Just-Ice. Produces the 12” single “I’m Serious” for rapper Steady B. 1990—Separates from Ramona Scott (Ms. Melodie). Begins advanced metaphysics. Publishes forth album “Edutainment” which releases the 12” single “Love’s Gonna Getchu”. Inspires the West Coast all-Stars to produce a gang truce song entitled “We’re All In The Same Gang” produced by Dr. Dre. KRS-One produces “The Evil That Men Do” for the album “All Hail The Queen” by rapper Queen Latifah. 1990—Produced “One Bright Day” (remix) for Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers (Virgin Records). Appears on the 12” single “Rise And Shine” featuring Chuck D and Kool Moe Dee. Begins discussions with Jon Schector regarding the formation and direction of the Source Magazine. Begins lecture career with frequent lectures at State Universities around the United States regarding the future of Hip Hop and African Studies. Simone and KRS begin dating. 1991—Produces the first live rap concert album and home video entitled “B.D.P. Live Hardcore” (Jive Records). Founded Human Education Against Lies-H.E.A.L. (Electra Records) producing the album “Civilization VS Technology” which revealed the all-star 12” single “Heal Yourself”; video Directed by Jonathon Demme. Produces a remix for the Country/Blues band the Neville Brothers entitled “Sons of Daughters”. 1991—Produced a collaborative song entitled the “Jam” by Shabba Ranks and KRS-One (Epic Records). Begins a rare book collection. 1992—After several disrespectful comments made by rapper Prince B of the group P.M. Dawn about KRS-One “wanting to be a teacher, but a teacher of what,” KRS-One and others interrupted P.M. Dawn’s concert performance at T-Money’s birthday party in Manhattan resulting in P.M. Dawn being thrown off the stage and into the crowd. KRS-One later apologized for the incident. 1992—Album “Sex And Violence” (Jive Records) is published revealing the songs “13 And Good”, “We In There” and “Duck Down”. This album popularized rapper Freddie Foxxx. Road Manager David Gardner is fired; Wesley Powell takes his place. KRS-One collaborates with Rock group R.E.M. to produce the song “Radio Song”. Son, Kris Parker is born. 1992—Develops lecture with friend Professor Z entitled “Common Sense Deficiency Syndrome”. Begins studying and touring with Kwame Toure and the All African People’s Revolutionary Party. College lecturing continues. 1993—Album “Return Of The Boom Bap” (Jive Records) is published revealing the songs “Outta Here” “Black Cop” and “Sound Of The Police”. This album also popularized the music production of DJ Premiere, Kid Capri and Show Biz. 1993—KRS and Simone form the management company “Front Page Entertainment” which would help launch the careers of Mad Lion, Channel Live, Heather B, G Simone, Fat Joe, Wycleff Jean, Young Z, Def Camp, and Supernatural. 1993—KRS-One produces 12” singles “Shoot To Kill” and “Take It Easy” (Nervous Records) for Hip Hop Reggae artist Mad Lion, as well as “Sparkin Mad Izm” (Capital Records) for Rap group Channel Live and appears on the “Menace To Society” movie soundtrack with the remix of the song “The Pee Is Free”. 1994—Simone inks a recording deal with Columbia Records. KRS-One produces an untitled album for Supernatural (East West Records). Philosophical studies continue. Creates the “I am Hip Hop” philosophy. 1994—The First Hip Hop “Meeting Of The Minds” Conference is held at the Alphonse Schomberg Center for Black Studies in Harlem. Afrika Bambaataa, Kool DJ Herc, Crazy Legs, and Grand Wizard Theodore were among the attendees. Media Assassin Harry Allen opened the event which discussed the preservation of Hip Hop, the concept of a Hip Hop museum and the building of Hip Hop into an authentic world culture. Simone leaves Columbia Records to publish the song “Music For The 90s” on her own independent label Front Page Records. 1995—Self-titled Album “KRS-One” is published revealing the songs “MCs Act Like They Don’t Know”, “Rappers Are In Dainja”, “Ah-Yeah” and “Free Mumia”. This album also featured early appearances of Das Efx, Fat Joe and Busta Rhymes. Produced 12” single “Ah Yeah” for the “Black Panther” movie sound track. College lecturing intensifies —James Madison University, Drexel University, Kent State University, Farleigh Dickenson University, Ocala University, and others. 1995—Produced “Station Identification” (Capital Records) for Rap group Channel Live and “Real Ting” (Killa Pride records) for Mad Lion. Publishes the first how to rap book entitled “The Science Of Rap”. Creates the “Future Flavas” radio show for Hot 97 in New York. Attends Zulu Nation Anniversary celebration were Afrika Bambaataa presents KRS-One with a lifetime achievement plaque/award. 1996—Front Page Records releases a series of KRS-One “white labels” (records with no titles, credits or label artwork). After securing the signed permissions and respect of Kool DJ Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, Grand Master Flash and Crazy Legs, KRS-One announces the Temple of Hip Hop with Angie Martinez at HOT 97. 1996—Produced untitled songs for artist such as Spragga Benz (Capital), Shelly Thunder (Front Page), Broadway (Nervous), Poor Righteous Teachers (Profile), and Chubb Rock (Select) this year. Developed a lecture entitled “Hip Hop: Its Meaning And Purpose”. 1997—Album “I Got Next” is published revealing such songs as “Step Into A World”, “A Friend” “The MC”, and “Heartbeat” featuring Red Man and introducing rapper Angie Martinez. “I Got Next” also highlighted the production skills of Jesse West, Show Biz, Domingo, DJ Muggs and KRS-One. Sean “Puffy” Combs remixed the song “Step Into A World” and rhymed on it as well. 1997—Jive Records begins to change its roster of artist from Rap groups like A Tribe Called Quest, Skinny Boys, Kool Moe Dee, Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, Whodini, KRS-One and others to pop groups like Britney Spears, In-Sync, and the Back Street Boys. Tours Europe only to cancel the tour in Germany due to a sinus infection. 1997—Began discussing with Vibe Magazine editor Keith Klinkscales about the formation of a new Hip Hop Magazine called “Blaze”. KRS becomes “Ethics Editor” of “Blaze” magazine and debates professor Michael Eric Dyson on the concept of being Hip Hop. 1997—Delivers a keynote address on “Real Change” at the 88 th Annual N.A.A.C.P. convention which also featured President Bill Clinton and Coretta Scott King as keynote speakers. Here, KRS-One confronts C. Deloris Tucker on her campaign against what she labeled as “Gangsta Rap”. 1998— September-Accepts A&R position at Warner/Reprise records in California. Signs Kool Moe Dee, Thor-el, I- Born and Lady Red. KRS-One also creates a Temple of Hip Hop album entitled “Criminal Justice” (Reprise Records). Establishes “Hip Hop Appreciation Week” every third week in May to reflect upon one’s role and responsibilities toward the further development of Hip Hop. Daughter, Tyme Parker is born December 8 th . 1999—Keynote lecturer at the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame’s first “Hip Hop Exhibition” conference. Voted Best Live Performer by the Source, Blaze and Ego Trip Magazines. 1999—November 9 th , the Temple of Hip Hop publishes “Criminal Justice-From Darkness to Light” (Reprise Records). Created and hosted a radio show called “Temple of Hip Hop Kulture” on KKBT 92.3FM “The Beat” in Los Angeles. 2000—Son, Isaac parker is born, January. Quits Warner/Reprise records to seek spiritual fulfillment. Declares himself “The Teacha” of the Hip Hop arts and sciences, and intensifies his promotion of Hip Hop as a legitimate world culture. October 30 th KRS-One speaks at Reverend Al Sharpton’s House Of Justice attending a “Hip Hop Summit” which featured Lyor Cohen, Chuck D, Sean “puffy” Combs, Master P, James Mtume, Conrad Muhammad, Freddie Foxxx and others. Here, KRS-One confronts Source editor Dave Mays in Al Sharpton’s office on the criminalization of Hip Hop in the Source Magazine. 2000—November 24 th , named “Creative Director” at the Riverside Church in Harlem. KRS-One then produces a concert series called “Spirit Move” at the Riverside Church. 2000—April 27 th , lectures on “Diversity and Ethnicity” with Dr. Cornell West at Keene State College. June, begins a year and a half long residency at the Riverside Church in Harlem as a youth minister mentoring young boys ages 13-16. Host “Blaze Battle” for Threshold Media which aired on H.B.O. November 25 th showing America that rap battles are NOT violent, but actually highly competitive. Radio station KKBT 92.3FM is sold to Radio One and becomes HOT 92.3. The Temple of Hip Hop goes off the air. 2000—KRS and Simone inks a joint-venture distribution deal with KOCH Entertainment opening the way for many independent artists who had major recording deals in the 1990s to reemerge again in the new millennium. KRS-One is officially released from Jive records. Performs at the 29 th Zulu Nation anniversary celebrations in November. Appears on songs by DJ Tomeck “The Return of Hip Hop” and rapper Xzibit-“The Kenny Parker Show 2000”. 2001—Album “The Sneak Attack” is publish (Koch). Grand Daddy I.U. and the original Jazzy Jeff from the rap pioneers Funky Four Plus One More produces a song entitled “Hot” for KRS-One. Begins the “Path Finderz” program at the Riverside Church which helps kids find their true purpose in life. Also, begins an eight week after-school music and communications program at the Cleveland Elementary School in Englewood New Jersey. 2001—February, The Temple of Hip Hop holds a press conference at the Sounds Of Brazil restaurant (S.O.B.s) in Manhattan to announce the fourth annual Hip Hop Appreciation Week. After an opening prayer from the reverend Al Sharpton, speakers included Kool DJ Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, Doug E. Fresh, DXT, and others. March 13 th -16 th KRS-One, the Cold Crush Brothers, DJ Red Alert and others attend the Hip Hop Hall of Fame conference in New York focusing upon the creation of an accurate Hip Hop history. 2001—April- KRS-One meets with Stephen Hill (video program director for B.E.T.) to discuss Hip Hop’s image on Black Entertainment Television. 2001—May 16 th over 300 Hip Hop pioneers, activists, artists, executives, authors, government officials, non-governmental organizations, ministers, journalists and students announced Hip Hop as an international culture of peace and prosperity at the United Nations Headquarters in Manhattan. The event was hosted by Thembisa Mshaka Morris and the United Nation’s Educational, Scientific and Cultural organization (U.N.E.S.C.O.). he Recognized by the United Nations as a legitimate international culture of peace and prosperity, many Hip Hop pioneers and attendees alike signed the Hip Hop Declaration of Peace presented at the same event. 2001—July 4 th -KRS-One performs at S.O.B.s in New York. KRS and Simone leave their home in New Jersey moving to Atlanta Georgia. July 17 th KRS-One appears on “Politically Incorrect” with Bill Mahr on H.B.O. November 4 th the Temple of Hip Hop holds its first “sermonar” in its own facility on 11 th Street in Atlanta Georgia. December 17 th finishes the album “Spiritual Minded” which would enter Billboard magazine’s Gospel charts at number 4. KRS-One does over 30 concerts and 10 lectures this year. 2002—March 4 th – KRS and Simone leave Atlanta Georgia for Los Angeles California. The Temple of Hip Hop closes. 2002—September-The Temple of Hip Hop presents “An I On Terror” conference at the Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood California to reflect upon the tragic events of September 11 th 2001. After the opening prayer, speakers included Jehmu Greene (Rock The Vote), Kool Moe Dee (artist, actor, activist), Nicole Hodges (doctorial student), Dionne Bennett (doctorial student), Malik One (Hip Hop Global Advocate), Monica Satchell (Pre-Paid Legal Services), and KRS-One as moderator. Over 150 in attendance. 2002—Temple of Hip Hop Student Organization at Riverside Community College in Southern California host its first Hip Hop History Month Conference in November. 2002—June-KRS-One battles Nelly. Records the “Mix Tape” album “Prophets vs. Profits” (Koch) and Mad Lion’s third album “Double Trouble” for Killa Pride Entertainment. Touring continues. 2003—Album “The Kristyle” is published (Koch). July, book “Ruminations” is published (Welcome Rain). KRS and Simone move back to Atlanta Georgia joining the Hillside Chapel and Truth Center. Simone coins the phrase “Acronology”. 2003—Performs at the 30 th anniversary of Zulu Nation during Hip Hop History Month, November. Here, KRS-One is inspired to further popularize and upgrade the art of “freestyling”. 2004—Invited to Washington D.C. by an organization/bookstore called “Urban Energy” to speak on the preservation, meaning and purpose of Hip Hop. Appears on H.B.O.s Def Poetry Jam with Doug E. Fresh. The Album “Keep Right” is published. 2004—January 25 th , the Temple of Hip Hop reopens in Atlanta Georgia. KRS-One, along with Kool DJ Herc, The Sugar Hill Gang and Chuck D, is honored by VH-1’s first annual “Hip Hop Honors”. 2004—Offered a teaching position at the University of Illinois at Urbana. Rolling Stone Magazine acknowledges KRS-One as Hip Hop’s “institutional authority” and “self-help guru”. August 6 th , Billboard Magazine names KRS-One “Pioneer of the Year”; he accepts his award in Florida along with singer/musician Isaac Hayes. June, KRS and Simone returns to Los Angeles California. Album “Life” is published. 2004—September, the Temple of Hip Hop arrives in Albuquerque New Mexico teaching Hip Hop as a spiritual way of life. October, KRS-One draws controversy at a New Yorker Magazine conference about the September 11 th event. Imitating the feelings of those who protest the World Trade Organization policies before September 11 th , KRS-One says “we cheered when 911 happened”. The New York Daily News then took KRS-One’s statements out of context and compares him to Al-Qaeda. December, the Temple of Hip Hop reopens at 5535 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles California. 2005—January, the Temple of Hip Hop presents a “Hip Hop Round Table Discussion” on the state of Hip Hop with Kool DJ Herc, Grand Master Caz, Busy Bee, Kool Moe Dee, KRS-One and about 60 Temple Members in California. March, KRS begins a series of “sermonars” after his concerts. Touring continues—Mangy Moose in Tenton Village Wyoming, Metro Club in Chicago, Temple Club in Lansing Michigan, 5 th Avenue Club in Detroit, Club Soda in Kalamazoo Michigan, Middle East Club in Cambridge Massachusetts, Burlington Vermont, Connecticut, New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Baltimore, and so on, and so on, and so on. 2005—August, KRS-One meets with “Project Blowed” about teaching Hip Hop to southern California’s youth. Performs at “The Vault” in Long Beach California with Kool DJ Herc, Grand Master Caz and Chief Rocker Busy Bee. KRS-One teaches regularly at his Temple of Hip Hop facility in Hollywood. 2005— May 28 th , KRS, Simone and kids travel to Europe via the Queen Mary for 25 city tour. June, lecture at Oxford University’s Christ Church in London. 2006— October 6 th , finishes Canadian tour ending in Toronto. October 7 th , honors Afrika Bambaataa at the VH-1 Hip Hop Honors. October 8 th , a chance meeting in New Jersey with Reverend Run at a supermarket leads to Rev Run and KRS-One joining in pray openly at the same supermarket. October 9 th , collaborates with Talib Kweli on a song entitled “The Beat”. June 13 th , the album “Adventures In Emceein” is published. 2006—March, popularizes the lyrical art of “freestyling” while touring Ohio, Florida, Tennessee, Kentucky, Kansas and California. April 23 rd , after 20 years of distance, KRS-One meets Marley Marl at Marley Marl’s house to record a new album entitled “Hip Hop Lives” (Koch). April 29 th , KRS-One returns to Europe for 20 concert dates. June, performs with Afrika Bambaataa in Munich Germany. 2007—Opens the year with live freestyle appearances at Nas concerts, Dead Prez concerts, Rakim concerts and De La Soul concerts. Nike releases a collaborative song produced by DJ Premier entitled “Classic” featuring Kanye West, Rakim, Nas and KRS-One honoring the Air Force One basketball shoe. 2007—May, appears on “Hannity’s America” (Fox). Rapper Lil Wayne promotes the “I am Hip Hop” t-shirt on the cover of XXL Magazine. “Hip Hop Lives” is released. KRS-One returns to Europe for touring and study; he visits the British Library, The British Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. 2007—July, adopted son Randy Parker commits suicide. 2008—October, Black Entertainment Television’s “Hip Hop Awards” gives KRS-One the “I am Hip Hop” award, a term and philosophy introduced by KRS-One in 1994. At the “Hip Hop Awards” event in Atlanta Georgia KRS-One resurrects the “Stop The Violence Movement” with a collaborative song entitled “Self -Construction” featuring rappers Nelly, Method Man, Busta Rhymes, Talib Kweli, Rah Digga, and others. KRS-One continues to teach Hip Hop all across the United States. 2008— Meets with Alex Jones for interview discussing the state of modern politics and the new presidency of Barak Obama. This interview was then used in the online documentary “The Obama Deception”. KRS appears in the “freestyle cipher” intermission of B.E.T.’s Hip Hop Awards with others. KRS appears on VH-1’s “Hip Hop Honors” representing the Beastie Boys. 2008—April, fan throws bottle on stage hitting KRS in the hand at Toads Place nightclub in New Haven Connecticut. KRS urges the revengeful crowd to stay calm and “let it go”. 2009—January, key note speaker at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Breakfast in Houston Texas. Hosts the “Rock The Bells” tour along with freestyle pioneer Supernatural. Produces album “The J.I.L.-Justice, Inspiration and Love” for G Simone (Front Page records). Assists the National Urban League in its anti-violence campaigns in Detroit Michigan. 2009— The “Gospel of Hip Hop” is completed and published November 9 th . KRS-One assists the Bowery Mission in feeding and teaching the homeless on Thanksgiving Day. 2009— December, appears as “Chris Cringle” in a television commercial for Nike’s Christmas promotion also featuring Kobe Bryant and Lebron James. 2010—January, studies ancient Caribbean cultures in the Bahamas. February, lectures at the University of Las Vegas. 2010— Living in Alpine New Jersey with family until March then moves to California. 2010—April 6 th , on behalf of Afrika Bambaataa, Kenny Yoda and Zulu Nation KRS-One declares the National Hip Hop Museum “illegitimate” and mediates the terms in which the National Hip Hop Museum and the founders of Hip Hop could work together. 2010—April 20 th , the Temple of Hip Hop hosts a pioneer dinner and discussion at S.O.B.s in New York to form a game plan as to how the Universal Federation for the Preservation of Hip Hop could best function after the National Hip Hop Museum controversy. 2010—April 29 th KRS meets with Jonathon Demme to discuss the Criminal Minded documentary project. KRS also performs and lectures at Oberlin and Trinity colleges this month. 2010—August, performs four concerts for the Rock The Bells tour. August 31 st , album Meta-Historical produced by Tru Master is published. Zulu Nation names KRS-One Hip Hop’s “Master Teacher”. 2010—September 19 th , arrives in South Hampton England with family via the Queen Mary Cruise ship. September 21 st , Gospel of Hip Hop tour begins: Holland, Amsterdam, Paris, London, etc, featuring DJ Kenny Parker and MC Supernatural. 2010—September 27 th , receives an honorary doctoral degree for Emceein from the Senate of the Herman Brood Academy in Holland. October 4 th , receives an honorary “Street Master” degree from the Street University in Berlin Germany. 2010—November 9 th , Gospel of Hip Hop tour concludes with a celebration of the Gospel of Hip Hop’s one year publishing anniversary at the Jazz Café in London England. KRS One records a presentation on the influence of rap music on the English language for the “Evolving English” exhibit at the British Library in London. 2010—November 10 th , KRS One and family returns to the United States beginning an eight month rest and study period. 2011—May 1 st , settled in Los Angeles. Kids resume Alexandria Academy. 2011—June 4 th , arrives in Las Vegas for concert and lecture/book signing. 2011—June 10 th , begins the recording of a new album produced by Mad Lion. 2011—June 21 st , records live freestyle DVD with Snoop Dogg and Battle Cat. 2011—June 28 th , shoots video for song “Just Like That” among other songs at Mad Lion’s studio in Los Angeles. 2011—June 29 th , shoots video with Rocker T for the song “What Is An Emcee”. 2011—July, performs at Club Lavo in Las Vegas. After the performance KRS is offered a residency at the club. 2011—August 11 th , performs at the Colony in Los Angeles for a special “Hip Hop—Back To Basics” concert where KRS called for “artists to stand up for art!” Doug E Fresh also made a guest appearance teaching the crowd how to “Dougie”. 2011—September 17th, holds the first “Gathering” for the Temple of Hip Hop at the Spirit Works Center for Spiritual Living in Los Angeles. The lecture was entitled “GOD’s Son”. Templeofhiphop.org goes back online. 2011—October 17 th , meets Temple Members again at a community center in Santa Monica (Pico Blvd.) to discuss upcoming tours and introduce the essence of Hip Hop to about 30 young students there. 2011—October 28 th , performs at the Key Club with DJ Predator Prime, Mad Lion and several temple apprentices while revealing a portion of the “Hip Hop Exhibit” on stage. 2011—November 6 th , completes the “Just Like That” and “Aztecnikal” videos Produced by Mad Lion. Embarks with wife Simone on a short tour of western Canada. 2011—November 28 th , returns from Canada. 2011—December 14 th , concludes the Club Lavo residency in Las Vegas. 2011—January 26 th , embarks upon a short concert and lecture tour of northern California (Santa Cruz, Sacramento, Oakland, Berkley, and more). - See more at: http://www.krs-one.com/about/#sthash.GfV8SlvU.dpuf

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KRS-ONE—Hip Hop Master Teacher

Travels From:
Los Angeles, CA, USA
Speaking Fee:

KRS-One Biography

THE PATH OF THE TEACHA Every culture produces its own “keeper”. Every culture produces its own principles, its own history, its own advocates, and its own prophet pointing the way to a higher quality of life. For the urban-street culture known in the world today as “Hip Hop”, KRS-One is all of the above. Appearing on the rap scene in 1986 as Boogie Down Productions releasing his first hit single “South Bronx” with the late DJ Scott La Rock, KRS “the one” made it clear that Hip Hop was going to have to take itself a lot more serious.

KRS, an acronym for ““Knowledge Reigning Supreme”, has been called the “conscience of Hip Hop” (Rolling Stone), “the greatest live emcee ever” (The Source), the “spokesperson for Hip Hop” (Wall Street Journal), “master teacher” (Zulu Nation) and the “son of Hip Hop” (Kool DJ Herc).

With 20 published albums to his credit and his numerous appearances with other artists, KRS-One has literally written the most rhymes in Hip Hop’s history. In the 1990s as “hip-hop” grew more and more commercialized and corporate, it was KRS-One who openly rejected such cultural exploitation and grounded Hip Hop in its original principles of peace, love, unity and safely having fun.

Teaching everything from self-creation to stopping violence; from vegetarianism to transcendental meditation, from the establishment of Hip Hop Appreciation Week (every third week in May), to establishing Hip Hop as an international culture at the United Nations (2001), KRS-One has single-handedly held the history and original arts of Hip Hop together now for over two decades.

In addition to lecturing at over 500 universities in the United States and publishing three ground-breaking books; “The Science of Rap” (1995), “Ruminations” (2003), and the Gospel of Hip Hop” (2009), KRS-One has also established the Stop The Violence Movement (1989), influenced the creation of the “West-Coast All-Stars’ anti-gang anthem “We’re All In The Same Gang” (1990), warned the Hip Hop community against giving up their humanity for technological advancement (H. E. A. L.—Human Education Against Lies-1991), and has established the Temple of Hip Hop for the spiritual exploration of Hip Hop’s culture (1996). It was KRS-One who first argued that “rap is something we do; Hip Hop is something we live” and introduced the “I am Hip Hop” philosophy in 1994 which Black Entertainment Television uses as the title of their Hip Hop Lifetime Achievement Award today. Without question, KRS-One has been the loudest voice for the actual preservation and expansion of Hip Hop worldwide. He is unquestionably the most influential Hip Hop icon ever!

Not only is KRS-One Hip Hop’s first official teacher and true philosopher, as an emcee/rapper, he is considered the best live Hip Hop emcee of all time! His freestyle abilities are amazing! KRS-One’s concert style is high-energy! A mixture of rap, reggae, spoken word and even classical music, KRS-One reminds you as to why you fell in love with Hip Hop. Always a refreshing break from mainstream rap content, KRS-One delivers an intense street-poet performance that leaves any audience rethinking their approach to Hip Hop and its culture. KRS-One is a must see concert and a mandatory lecture for anyone really interested in the true essence of Hip Hop and how to successfully live the culture.

These days, KRS-One finds himself in high demand amongst younger and younger audiences. Whether it’s his interviews on the BEEF DVD series, or his philosophical books, or any one of his online lectures, or U-Tube performance clips, or his seemingly endless stream of recorded music, KRS-One enjoys a solid respect from millions of people seeking authenticity in music and lyrics today. Through his “Temple of Hip Hop” preservation society and ministry, KRS-One continues to share his unique knowledge of Hip Hop to younger audiences eager to hear the ‘teacha’ speak.

1965—Born Lawrence, August 20 th in Park Slope Brooklyn New York. His mother’s name is Jacqueline. 1966—Began learning to walk. Began exploring the surrounding world. 1966—Brother, Kenneth is born July 9 th . 1967—Learning to speak. Kool DJ Herc and family immigrates from Kingston Jamaica to the Bronx New York. 1968—Developed a love for animals. Began home schooling of African Studies. 1969—September-Enters pre-school. Begins to display talent in art. Jacqueline gives tests and homework at home. 1970—Moves to Harlem, New York. Jacqueline marries Johnny Lee Parker and he becomes Lawrence’s and Kenneth’s step-father. Introduced to the spiritual life by mother Jacqueline. 1971—Young Lawrence enters kindergarten and continues home study; mostly African history, religion and English grammar. Visits the “Tree of Life” book store in Harlem New York with mother Jacqueline. Begins a comic book and toy collection. Young Lawrence is influenced by James Brown and the Jackson Five. Enters first grade. 1972—Moves to 1600 Sedgwick Avenue in the Bronx. Enters second grade. First writings include poetry to his mother. Home schooling continues; African history, religion and English grammar. 1973—Began to experience the “jams” (free public neighborhood parties) or “block parties” at Cedar Park, University Avenue and at the 1520 Sedgwick Avenue park. Enters third grade; very unpopular and quiet. Aspires to be an animal doctor. Begins an appreciation for music, art and philosophy. 1974—Begins street knowledge training. Home schooling continues. Dreams and visions of divine purpose begin to occur. Breakin, M.C.-ing, graffiti writing and deejayin are all being reintroduced and perfected during this time. Enters fourth grade. 1975—Moves to Flatbush Brooklyn. Begins studying the Bible. Rastafarianism and home schooling dominates Lawrence’s education as he enters fifth grade. Begins practicing yoga, meditation and fasting. Sister Chanelle is born, April 15 th . 1976—Dreams and visions of divine purpose reveal that Young Lawrence has special work to do in the fields of music, philosophy and art. Jacqueline confirms the dreams of her son through astrology and numerology. Home-made cassette tapes of live M.C.-ing and D.J.-ing began to circulate around Brooklyn. 1977—Inspired to become an M.C. after the New York City blackout, young Lawrence took on the name “Larry Gee”. 1978—Runs away from home for several hours after reading Matthew chapter11, verse 37 and chapter 12, verse 48 amongst other verses. Begins recording live “pause” tapes with a D.J. and M.C. friend named Neville T. 1979—After purchasing “King Tim the Third” by the Fat back Band, a week later Jacqueline purchases “Rapper’s Delight” by the Sugar Hill Gang. Young Lawrence is introduced to rap on vinyl records. Begins a study of metaphysical philosophers. 1980—Expands upon rhyme writing with Nevelle T and his brother Kenny along with Kenny’s school friends Daryl D and Master Key (Kevin). Aspires to be an M.C. and a philosopher/mystic. Runs away from home for a month before being picked-up by truant officers and returned home. 1981—Jacqueline begins to purchase one Sugar Hill records artist per week; Grand Master Flash and the Furious Five. Funky Four plus One More, the Treacherous Three, Sequence, etc. Larry and Kenny are deeply influenced. However, after a final argument with his mother, young Lawrence (Larry Gee) leaves home never to return again; he takes up shelter at the Brooklyn Public Library, Wingate High School Park and Prospect Park. 1982—Attends both Hip Hop and Reggae “jams” at Wingate Park and Prospect Park in Brooklyn. Introduced to Christian Science, Lawrence begins studying “The Game Of Life”. Metaphysical training intensifies. Officially homeless, young Lawrence begins pursuing his childhood “dreams and visions” as a philosophical poet/teacher. 1983—Walks across the Williamsburg Bridge from Brooklyn to Manhattan ending up at the east third street men’s shelter in the Bowery of Manhattan’s lower eastside. There young Lawrence would meet the Hare Krishnas who would feed the homeless and teach the Bagavad-Gita. It was here that cynical security guards at the third street men’s shelter would begin to make fun of young Lawrence by calling him “Krsna”. Adopted-son Randy is born, July 18 th . 1983—Young Lawrence enters the Lacombe Avenue Group Home in the Bronx operated by the Catholic Guardian Society. There he meets a graffiti writer named Zore who shows Lawrence how to “tag” his new name “Krsna”. Soon Lawrence would drop the “na” in “Krsna” and simply use “Krs” pronounced as “Chris”. 1984—Completes the General Equivalency Diploma exam. Religious and philosophical studies intensify. “KRS” adds a “One” to the end of his name signifying the “original KRS”, the “first KRS”, and/or the “best KRS”. Such was common for popular graffiti writers to add a “one” or a “1” to the end of their tags. KRS meets Christine (first girlfriend). 1985—August 20 th KRS leaves the Lacombe Avenue group home to further pursue his recording career. KRS and Christine take up shelter at the YMCA on 34 th Street and 9 th Avenue in Manhattan. KRS is arrested for defacing public property with graffiti. 1985—Inspired by T-La Rock, Kool Moe Dee, and Melle Mel, “KRS” develops an off-beat rhyme style and begins to spar with other local M.C.s. KRS’s relationship with Christine ends. KRS returns to the Third Street men’s shelter in the lower eastside of Manhattan meeting I.C.U. (Delroy Hutchinson) along the way. Here, KRS, I.C.U., Jerry Levi 167 and others are transferred to the 166 th Street and Boston Road men shelter in the Bronx. 1985—Graffiti writer and shelter security guard “Funk Master” from the “The Rascals” (T.R.) introduces “KRS” to producer Ced- Gee. Scott Sterling (Scott La Rock) takes a job as a social worker at the 166 th Street and Boston Road Amory men’s shelter in the Bronx. KRS begins a theological study of Christ Consciousness and the life of Jesus while being introduced to the Nation of Islam by the popularity of the Five Percenters. KRS-One meets Scott Sterling (DJ Scott La Rock) at the Boston Road Amory men’s shelter in the Bronx; Scott was his social worker. 1985—Scott La Rock invites KRS-One to Broadway Repertory Theatre at 145 th Street and Broadway in upper Manhattan. Here, KRS is introduced to Hip Hop’s late night club life. From here KRS would eventually begin regularly hanging-out at Danceteria, The Roxy and Latin Quarters all in Manhattan. 12” single “Latoya” by Just-Ice (Sleeping Bag Records) is published. 1985— Advised Cut Master DC on the production of his 12” single “Brooklyn’s In The House” (Zakia Records). KRS officially leaves homeless life when I.C.U. offers KRS a room in his new apartment at Milbrook Projects in the Bronx. KRS meets Ramona Scott (Ms. Melodie). 1985—12” single, “Advance” produced by Scott La Rock written by KRS-One featuring the Celebrity Three; Levi 167, MC Quality and KRS-One (Zakia Records) is published. Arrested for “hopping the train” (not paying the fare). 1985—Inspired by Reggae legend Shinehead, KRS-One develops a new Hip Hop Reggae style and popularizes Jamaican dance hall terminologies in rap music. 12” single “Success Is The Word” (Sleeping Bag Records) featuring KRS-One, Scott La Rock and Kenny Beck is published. 1985—KRS-One and Scott La Rock incorporate Boogie Down Productions and record the songs “Elementary” and “Criminal Minded”. Scott La Rock begins “shopping” Boogie Down Production’s music to every independent and mainstream record label. KRS begins a study into criminal justice and general sociology. Personal journal begins. Lawrence marries Ramona (Ms. Melodie). 1985—Scott La Rock takes beat boxer Derrick Jones “under his wing” and introduces him to KRS-One who changes his name to “D-Nice”. After being turned down by every recording label of the day, Boogie Down Productions inks a deal with independent label “Rock Candy Records” releasing the song “Crack Attack” warning people about the newly emerging crack-cocaine drug scene. 1986—Mr. Magic (Juice Crew) rejects Boogie Down Production’s “demo”. KRS-One writes an answer song entitled “South Bronx” answering M.C. Shan’s and DJ Marley Marl’s song “Queensbridge” which Mr. Magic was part of. M.C. Shan then answered KRS-One and Scott La Rock with a song entitled “Kill That Noise” to which KRS-One promptly answered back with a song entitled “The Bridge Is Over”. After that, the battle ended with Roxanne Shante’ having the final word on a song entitled “Have A Nice Day”. KRS-One meets Willie Dee AKA Ill Will. 1986—Ced-G, Kool Keith and Moe Love form the “Ultra Magnetic M.C.s”. KRS-One and Scott La Rock begin training Scottie Morris (Manager Mo) for tour management. KRS-One and Scott La Rock perform their first show at the “Devils Nest” on West Tremont Avenue in the Bronx. 1987—KRS-One and Scott La Rock publish their first album entitled “Criminal Minded”. 1987—KRS-One and Scott La Rock retain the legal services of attorney Jay D. Kramer. KRS-One battles Melle Mel at The Latin Quarter for $1000.00 cash. Ice-T invites KRS-One and Scott La Rock to Los Angeles. They meet A&R executive Benny Medina who offers 275,000.00 to sign to Warner Brothers Records. Three days later, back in the Bronx, Scott La Rock is killed attempting to settle a dispute between D-Nice and another person. Scott La Rock would be the first in a list of major Hip Hop figure to fall to gun violence. KRS-One performs at Madison Square Garden with Run DMC, Beastie Boys, Doug E Fresh, and others. 1987— KRS-One produces a Just-Ice album entitled “Kool and Deadly” (Sleeping Bag Records). KRS-One attends a Zulu Nation meeting at the Latin Quarter where Afrika Bambaataa called for the unity of Hip Hop from coast to coast. B.D.P.s Willie Dee belonged to Zulu Nation’s-chapter 5. After Scott’s death Warner Brothers retracts their $275,000.00 deal citing that they were “interested in the whole group”. With the help of Jay Kramer, KRS-One inks a deal with Jive Records worth $300,000.00. 1988—KRS-One not only publishes the classic album “By All Means Necessary” (Jive Records) revealing such songs as “Stop The Violence” and “My Philosophy”, KRS-One also produces “The Desolate One” for Just-Ice (Sleeping Bag Records), a 12” single for artist Steady B entitled “Serious” (Jive Records), develops the “Emancipation Procrastination” lecture taught at Yale University and then goes on the historical Dope Jam Tour which featured Ice-T, Biz Markie, Doug E Fresh, Kool Moe Dee, Eric B and Rakim. 1989— February, KRS meets Simone at Power Play Studios in Queens. 1989—At the request of Jive Records A&R Ann Carli, KRS-One launches the “Stop The Violence Movement” with an all-star collaborative song entitled “Self-Destruction” produced by D-Nice. Video directed by Ralph McDaniel (Classic Concepts). 1989—Still performing under the name of Boogie Down Productions, KRS-One publishes his third album entitled “Ghetto Music: The Blueprint Of Hip Hop, and releases 12” singles “Jack Of Spades”, “Why Is That” and “You Must Learn”. Scottie Morris (Manager Moe) is fired. KRS begins to use the term “metaphysician” when referring to himself on album artwork and liner notes. Travels to Jamaica to produce Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers at Tuff Gong Studios. 1989—Produces legendary Reggae duo Sly and Robbie for an album entitled “Silent Assassins” which featured B.D.P.’s Willie Dee, Queen Latifah, and newcomer The Shah of Brooklyn. KRS begins a series of tours to Europe bringing “conscious” Hip Hop as well as “Hip Hop Reggae to the region. Executive produced Harmony’s album “Let There Be Harmony” (Virgin Records). Appears on the Arsenio Hall Show and makes a cameo appearance in the comedy film “I’m Gonna Get You Sucka” starring Kenon Ivory Wayans. 1989—Produces the album “The Desolate One” (Sleeping Bag Records) for rapper Just-Ice. Produces the 12” single “I’m Serious” for rapper Steady B. 1990—Separates from Ramona Scott (Ms. Melodie). Begins advanced metaphysics. Publishes forth album “Edutainment” which releases the 12” single “Love’s Gonna Getchu”. Inspires the West Coast all-Stars to produce a gang truce song entitled “We’re All In The Same Gang” produced by Dr. Dre. KRS-One produces “The Evil That Men Do” for the album “All Hail The Queen” by rapper Queen Latifah. 1990—Produced “One Bright Day” (remix) for Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers (Virgin Records). Appears on the 12” single “Rise And Shine” featuring Chuck D and Kool Moe Dee. Begins discussions with Jon Schector regarding the formation and direction of the Source Magazine. Begins lecture career with frequent lectures at State Universities around the United States regarding the future of Hip Hop and African Studies. Simone and KRS begin dating. 1991—Produces the first live rap concert album and home video entitled “B.D.P. Live Hardcore” (Jive Records). Founded Human Education Against Lies-H.E.A.L. (Electra Records) producing the album “Civilization VS Technology” which revealed the all-star 12” single “Heal Yourself”; video Directed by Jonathon Demme. Produces a remix for the Country/Blues band the Neville Brothers entitled “Sons of Daughters”. 1991—Produced a collaborative song entitled the “Jam” by Shabba Ranks and KRS-One (Epic Records). Begins a rare book collection. 1992—After several disrespectful comments made by rapper Prince B of the group P.M. Dawn about KRS-One “wanting to be a teacher, but a teacher of what,” KRS-One and others interrupted P.M. Dawn’s concert performance at T-Money’s birthday party in Manhattan resulting in P.M. Dawn being thrown off the stage and into the crowd. KRS-One later apologized for the incident. 1992—Album “Sex And Violence” (Jive Records) is published revealing the songs “13 And Good”, “We In There” and “Duck Down”. This album popularized rapper Freddie Foxxx. Road Manager David Gardner is fired; Wesley Powell takes his place. KRS-One collaborates with Rock group R.E.M. to produce the song “Radio Song”. Son, Kris Parker is born. 1992—Develops lecture with friend Professor Z entitled “Common Sense Deficiency Syndrome”. Begins studying and touring with Kwame Toure and the All African People’s Revolutionary Party. College lecturing continues. 1993—Album “Return Of The Boom Bap” (Jive Records) is published revealing the songs “Outta Here” “Black Cop” and “Sound Of The Police”. This album also popularized the music production of DJ Premiere, Kid Capri and Show Biz. 1993—KRS and Simone form the management company “Front Page Entertainment” which would help launch the careers of Mad Lion, Channel Live, Heather B, G Simone, Fat Joe, Wycleff Jean, Young Z, Def Camp, and Supernatural. 1993—KRS-One produces 12” singles “Shoot To Kill” and “Take It Easy” (Nervous Records) for Hip Hop Reggae artist Mad Lion, as well as “Sparkin Mad Izm” (Capital Records) for Rap group Channel Live and appears on the “Menace To Society” movie soundtrack with the remix of the song “The Pee Is Free”. 1994—Simone inks a recording deal with Columbia Records. KRS-One produces an untitled album for Supernatural (East West Records). Philosophical studies continue. Creates the “I am Hip Hop” philosophy. 1994—The First Hip Hop “Meeting Of The Minds” Conference is held at the Alphonse Schomberg Center for Black Studies in Harlem. Afrika Bambaataa, Kool DJ Herc, Crazy Legs, and Grand Wizard Theodore were among the attendees. Media Assassin Harry Allen opened the event which discussed the preservation of Hip Hop, the concept of a Hip Hop museum and the building of Hip Hop into an authentic world culture. Simone leaves Columbia Records to publish the song “Music For The 90s” on her own independent label Front Page Records. 1995—Self-titled Album “KRS-One” is published revealing the songs “MCs Act Like They Don’t Know”, “Rappers Are In Dainja”, “Ah-Yeah” and “Free Mumia”. This album also featured early appearances of Das Efx, Fat Joe and Busta Rhymes. Produced 12” single “Ah Yeah” for the “Black Panther” movie sound track. College lecturing intensifies —James Madison University, Drexel University, Kent State University, Farleigh Dickenson University, Ocala University, and others. 1995—Produced “Station Identification” (Capital Records) for Rap group Channel Live and “Real Ting” (Killa Pride records) for Mad Lion. Publishes the first how to rap book entitled “The Science Of Rap”. Creates the “Future Flavas” radio show for Hot 97 in New York. Attends Zulu Nation Anniversary celebration were Afrika Bambaataa presents KRS-One with a lifetime achievement plaque/award. 1996—Front Page Records releases a series of KRS-One “white labels” (records with no titles, credits or label artwork). After securing the signed permissions and respect of Kool DJ Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, Grand Master Flash and Crazy Legs, KRS-One announces the Temple of Hip Hop with Angie Martinez at HOT 97. 1996—Produced untitled songs for artist such as Spragga Benz (Capital), Shelly Thunder (Front Page), Broadway (Nervous), Poor Righteous Teachers (Profile), and Chubb Rock (Select) this year. Developed a lecture entitled “Hip Hop: Its Meaning And Purpose”. 1997—Album “I Got Next” is published revealing such songs as “Step Into A World”, “A Friend” “The MC”, and “Heartbeat” featuring Red Man and introducing rapper Angie Martinez. “I Got Next” also highlighted the production skills of Jesse West, Show Biz, Domingo, DJ Muggs and KRS-One. Sean “Puffy” Combs remixed the song “Step Into A World” and rhymed on it as well. 1997—Jive Records begins to change its roster of artist from Rap groups like A Tribe Called Quest, Skinny Boys, Kool Moe Dee, Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, Whodini, KRS-One and others to pop groups like Britney Spears, In-Sync, and the Back Street Boys. Tours Europe only to cancel the tour in Germany due to a sinus infection. 1997—Began discussing with Vibe Magazine editor Keith Klinkscales about the formation of a new Hip Hop Magazine called “Blaze”. KRS becomes “Ethics Editor” of “Blaze” magazine and debates professor Michael Eric Dyson on the concept of being Hip Hop. 1997—Delivers a keynote address on “Real Change” at the 88 th Annual N.A.A.C.P. convention which also featured President Bill Clinton and Coretta Scott King as keynote speakers. Here, KRS-One confronts C. Deloris Tucker on her campaign against what she labeled as “Gangsta Rap”. 1998— September-Accepts A&R position at Warner/Reprise records in California. Signs Kool Moe Dee, Thor-el, I- Born and Lady Red. KRS-One also creates a Temple of Hip Hop album entitled “Criminal Justice” (Reprise Records). Establishes “Hip Hop Appreciation Week” every third week in May to reflect upon one’s role and responsibilities toward the further development of Hip Hop. Daughter, Tyme Parker is born December 8 th . 1999—Keynote lecturer at the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame’s first “Hip Hop Exhibition” conference. Voted Best Live Performer by the Source, Blaze and Ego Trip Magazines. 1999—November 9 th , the Temple of Hip Hop publishes “Criminal Justice-From Darkness to Light” (Reprise Records). Created and hosted a radio show called “Temple of Hip Hop Kulture” on KKBT 92.3FM “The Beat” in Los Angeles. 2000—Son, Isaac parker is born, January. Quits Warner/Reprise records to seek spiritual fulfillment. Declares himself “The Teacha” of the Hip Hop arts and sciences, and intensifies his promotion of Hip Hop as a legitimate world culture. October 30 th KRS-One speaks at Reverend Al Sharpton’s House Of Justice attending a “Hip Hop Summit” which featured Lyor Cohen, Chuck D, Sean “puffy” Combs, Master P, James Mtume, Conrad Muhammad, Freddie Foxxx and others. Here, KRS-One confronts Source editor Dave Mays in Al Sharpton’s office on the criminalization of Hip Hop in the Source Magazine. 2000—November 24 th , named “Creative Director” at the Riverside Church in Harlem. KRS-One then produces a concert series called “Spirit Move” at the Riverside Church. 2000—April 27 th , lectures on “Diversity and Ethnicity” with Dr. Cornell West at Keene State College. June, begins a year and a half long residency at the Riverside Church in Harlem as a youth minister mentoring young boys ages 13-16. Host “Blaze Battle” for Threshold Media which aired on H.B.O. November 25 th showing America that rap battles are NOT violent, but actually highly competitive. Radio station KKBT 92.3FM is sold to Radio One and becomes HOT 92.3. The Temple of Hip Hop goes off the air. 2000—KRS and Simone inks a joint-venture distribution deal with KOCH Entertainment opening the way for many independent artists who had major recording deals in the 1990s to reemerge again in the new millennium. KRS-One is officially released from Jive records. Performs at the 29 th Zulu Nation anniversary celebrations in November. Appears on songs by DJ Tomeck “The Return of Hip Hop” and rapper Xzibit-“The Kenny Parker Show 2000”. 2001—Album “The Sneak Attack” is publish (Koch). Grand Daddy I.U. and the original Jazzy Jeff from the rap pioneers Funky Four Plus One More produces a song entitled “Hot” for KRS-One. Begins the “Path Finderz” program at the Riverside Church which helps kids find their true purpose in life. Also, begins an eight week after-school music and communications program at the Cleveland Elementary School in Englewood New Jersey. 2001—February, The Temple of Hip Hop holds a press conference at the Sounds Of Brazil restaurant (S.O.B.s) in Manhattan to announce the fourth annual Hip Hop Appreciation Week. After an opening prayer from the reverend Al Sharpton, speakers included Kool DJ Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, Doug E. Fresh, DXT, and others. March 13 th -16 th KRS-One, the Cold Crush Brothers, DJ Red Alert and others attend the Hip Hop Hall of Fame conference in New York focusing upon the creation of an accurate Hip Hop history. 2001—April- KRS-One meets with Stephen Hill (video program director for B.E.T.) to discuss Hip Hop’s image on Black Entertainment Television. 2001—May 16 th over 300 Hip Hop pioneers, activists, artists, executives, authors, government officials, non-governmental organizations, ministers, journalists and students announced Hip Hop as an international culture of peace and prosperity at the United Nations Headquarters in Manhattan. The event was hosted by Thembisa Mshaka Morris and the United Nation’s Educational, Scientific and Cultural organization (U.N.E.S.C.O.). he Recognized by the United Nations as a legitimate international culture of peace and prosperity, many Hip Hop pioneers and attendees alike signed the Hip Hop Declaration of Peace presented at the same event. 2001—July 4 th -KRS-One performs at S.O.B.s in New York. KRS and Simone leave their home in New Jersey moving to Atlanta Georgia. July 17 th KRS-One appears on “Politically Incorrect” with Bill Mahr on H.B.O. November 4 th the Temple of Hip Hop holds its first “sermonar” in its own facility on 11 th Street in Atlanta Georgia. December 17 th finishes the album “Spiritual Minded” which would enter Billboard magazine’s Gospel charts at number 4. KRS-One does over 30 concerts and 10 lectures this year. 2002—March 4 th – KRS and Simone leave Atlanta Georgia for Los Angeles California. The Temple of Hip Hop closes. 2002—September-The Temple of Hip Hop presents “An I On Terror” conference at the Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood California to reflect upon the tragic events of September 11 th 2001. After the opening prayer, speakers included Jehmu Greene (Rock The Vote), Kool Moe Dee (artist, actor, activist), Nicole Hodges (doctorial student), Dionne Bennett (doctorial student), Malik One (Hip Hop Global Advocate), Monica Satchell (Pre-Paid Legal Services), and KRS-One as moderator. Over 150 in attendance. 2002—Temple of Hip Hop Student Organization at Riverside Community College in Southern California host its first Hip Hop History Month Conference in November. 2002—June-KRS-One battles Nelly. Records the “Mix Tape” album “Prophets vs. Profits” (Koch) and Mad Lion’s third album “Double Trouble” for Killa Pride Entertainment. Touring continues. 2003—Album “The Kristyle” is published (Koch). July, book “Ruminations” is published (Welcome Rain). KRS and Simone move back to Atlanta Georgia joining the Hillside Chapel and Truth Center. Simone coins the phrase “Acronology”. 2003—Performs at the 30 th anniversary of Zulu Nation during Hip Hop History Month, November. Here, KRS-One is inspired to further popularize and upgrade the art of “freestyling”. 2004—Invited to Washington D.C. by an organization/bookstore called “Urban Energy” to speak on the preservation, meaning and purpose of Hip Hop. Appears on H.B.O.s Def Poetry Jam with Doug E. Fresh. The Album “Keep Right” is published. 2004—January 25 th , the Temple of Hip Hop reopens in Atlanta Georgia. KRS-One, along with Kool DJ Herc, The Sugar Hill Gang and Chuck D, is honored by VH-1’s first annual “Hip Hop Honors”. 2004—Offered a teaching position at the University of Illinois at Urbana. Rolling Stone Magazine acknowledges KRS-One as Hip Hop’s “institutional authority” and “self-help guru”. August 6 th , Billboard Magazine names KRS-One “Pioneer of the Year”; he accepts his award in Florida along with singer/musician Isaac Hayes. June, KRS and Simone returns to Los Angeles California. Album “Life” is published. 2004—September, the Temple of Hip Hop arrives in Albuquerque New Mexico teaching Hip Hop as a spiritual way of life. October, KRS-One draws controversy at a New Yorker Magazine conference about the September 11 th event. Imitating the feelings of those who protest the World Trade Organization policies before September 11 th , KRS-One says “we cheered when 911 happened”. The New York Daily News then took KRS-One’s statements out of context and compares him to Al-Qaeda. December, the Temple of Hip Hop reopens at 5535 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles California. 2005—January, the Temple of Hip Hop presents a “Hip Hop Round Table Discussion” on the state of Hip Hop with Kool DJ Herc, Grand Master Caz, Busy Bee, Kool Moe Dee, KRS-One and about 60 Temple Members in California. March, KRS begins a series of “sermonars” after his concerts. Touring continues—Mangy Moose in Tenton Village Wyoming, Metro Club in Chicago, Temple Club in Lansing Michigan, 5 th Avenue Club in Detroit, Club Soda in Kalamazoo Michigan, Middle East Club in Cambridge Massachusetts, Burlington Vermont, Connecticut, New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Baltimore, and so on, and so on, and so on. 2005—August, KRS-One meets with “Project Blowed” about teaching Hip Hop to southern California’s youth. Performs at “The Vault” in Long Beach California with Kool DJ Herc, Grand Master Caz and Chief Rocker Busy Bee. KRS-One teaches regularly at his Temple of Hip Hop facility in Hollywood. 2005— May 28 th , KRS, Simone and kids travel to Europe via the Queen Mary for 25 city tour. June, lecture at Oxford University’s Christ Church in London. 2006— October 6 th , finishes Canadian tour ending in Toronto. October 7 th , honors Afrika Bambaataa at the VH-1 Hip Hop Honors. October 8 th , a chance meeting in New Jersey with Reverend Run at a supermarket leads to Rev Run and KRS-One joining in pray openly at the same supermarket. October 9 th , collaborates with Talib Kweli on a song entitled “The Beat”. June 13 th , the album “Adventures In Emceein” is published. 2006—March, popularizes the lyrical art of “freestyling” while touring Ohio, Florida, Tennessee, Kentucky, Kansas and California. April 23 rd , after 20 years of distance, KRS-One meets Marley Marl at Marley Marl’s house to record a new album entitled “Hip Hop Lives” (Koch). April 29 th , KRS-One returns to Europe for 20 concert dates. June, performs with Afrika Bambaataa in Munich Germany. 2007—Opens the year with live freestyle appearances at Nas concerts, Dead Prez concerts, Rakim concerts and De La Soul concerts. Nike releases a collaborative song produced by DJ Premier entitled “Classic” featuring Kanye West, Rakim, Nas and KRS-One honoring the Air Force One basketball shoe. 2007—May, appears on “Hannity’s America” (Fox). Rapper Lil Wayne promotes the “I am Hip Hop” t-shirt on the cover of XXL Magazine. “Hip Hop Lives” is released. KRS-One returns to Europe for touring and study; he visits the British Library, The British Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. 2007—July, adopted son Randy Parker commits suicide. 2008—October, Black Entertainment Television’s “Hip Hop Awards” gives KRS-One the “I am Hip Hop” award, a term and philosophy introduced by KRS-One in 1994. At the “Hip Hop Awards” event in Atlanta Georgia KRS-One resurrects the “Stop The Violence Movement” with a collaborative song entitled “Self -Construction” featuring rappers Nelly, Method Man, Busta Rhymes, Talib Kweli, Rah Digga, and others. KRS-One continues to teach Hip Hop all across the United States. 2008— Meets with Alex Jones for interview discussing the state of modern politics and the new presidency of Barak Obama. This interview was then used in the online documentary “The Obama Deception”. KRS appears in the “freestyle cipher” intermission of B.E.T.’s Hip Hop Awards with others. KRS appears on VH-1’s “Hip Hop Honors” representing the Beastie Boys. 2008—April, fan throws bottle on stage hitting KRS in the hand at Toads Place nightclub in New Haven Connecticut. KRS urges the revengeful crowd to stay calm and “let it go”. 2009—January, key note speaker at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Breakfast in Houston Texas. Hosts the “Rock The Bells” tour along with freestyle pioneer Supernatural. Produces album “The J.I.L.-Justice, Inspiration and Love” for G Simone (Front Page records). Assists the National Urban League in its anti-violence campaigns in Detroit Michigan. 2009— The “Gospel of Hip Hop” is completed and published November 9 th . KRS-One assists the Bowery Mission in feeding and teaching the homeless on Thanksgiving Day. 2009— December, appears as “Chris Cringle” in a television commercial for Nike’s Christmas promotion also featuring Kobe Bryant and Lebron James. 2010—January, studies ancient Caribbean cultures in the Bahamas. February, lectures at the University of Las Vegas. 2010— Living in Alpine New Jersey with family until March then moves to California. 2010—April 6 th , on behalf of Afrika Bambaataa, Kenny Yoda and Zulu Nation KRS-One declares the National Hip Hop Museum “illegitimate” and mediates the terms in which the National Hip Hop Museum and the founders of Hip Hop could work together. 2010—April 20 th , the Temple of Hip Hop hosts a pioneer dinner and discussion at S.O.B.s in New York to form a game plan as to how the Universal Federation for the Preservation of Hip Hop could best function after the National Hip Hop Museum controversy. 2010—April 29 th KRS meets with Jonathon Demme to discuss the Criminal Minded documentary project. KRS also performs and lectures at Oberlin and Trinity colleges this month. 2010—August, performs four concerts for the Rock The Bells tour. August 31 st , album Meta-Historical produced by Tru Master is published. Zulu Nation names KRS-One Hip Hop’s “Master Teacher”. 2010—September 19 th , arrives in South Hampton England with family via the Queen Mary Cruise ship. September 21 st , Gospel of Hip Hop tour begins: Holland, Amsterdam, Paris, London, etc, featuring DJ Kenny Parker and MC Supernatural. 2010—September 27 th , receives an honorary doctoral degree for Emceein from the Senate of the Herman Brood Academy in Holland. October 4 th , receives an honorary “Street Master” degree from the Street University in Berlin Germany. 2010—November 9 th , Gospel of Hip Hop tour concludes with a celebration of the Gospel of Hip Hop’s one year publishing anniversary at the Jazz Café in London England. KRS One records a presentation on the influence of rap music on the English language for the “Evolving English” exhibit at the British Library in London. 2010—November 10 th , KRS One and family returns to the United States beginning an eight month rest and study period. 2011—May 1 st , settled in Los Angeles. Kids resume Alexandria Academy. 2011—June 4 th , arrives in Las Vegas for concert and lecture/book signing. 2011—June 10 th , begins the recording of a new album produced by Mad Lion. 2011—June 21 st , records live freestyle DVD with Snoop Dogg and Battle Cat. 2011—June 28 th , shoots video for song “Just Like That” among other songs at Mad Lion’s studio in Los Angeles. 2011—June 29 th , shoots video with Rocker T for the song “What Is An Emcee”. 2011—July, performs at Club Lavo in Las Vegas. After the performance KRS is offered a residency at the club. 2011—August 11 th , performs at the Colony in Los Angeles for a special “Hip Hop—Back To Basics” concert where KRS called for “artists to stand up for art!” Doug E Fresh also made a guest appearance teaching the crowd how to “Dougie”. 2011—September 17th, holds the first “Gathering” for the Temple of Hip Hop at the Spirit Works Center for Spiritual Living in Los Angeles. The lecture was entitled “GOD’s Son”. Templeofhiphop.org goes back online. 2011—October 17 th , meets Temple Members again at a community center in Santa Monica (Pico Blvd.) to discuss upcoming tours and introduce the essence of Hip Hop to about 30 young students there. 2011—October 28 th , performs at the Key Club with DJ Predator Prime, Mad Lion and several temple apprentices while revealing a portion of the “Hip Hop Exhibit” on stage. 2011—November 6 th , completes the “Just Like That” and “Aztecnikal” videos Produced by Mad Lion. Embarks with wife Simone on a short tour of western Canada. 2011—November 28 th , returns from Canada. 2011—December 14 th , concludes the Club Lavo residency in Las Vegas. 2011—January 26 th , embarks upon a short concert and lecture tour of northern California (Santa Cruz, Sacramento, Oakland, Berkley, and more). - See more at: http://www.krs-one.com/about/#sthash.GfV8SlvU.dpuf

KRS-One Videos

  • KRS-One live @ Simplon, Groningen 2013 (HD)
  • KRS-One talks about rap battles, Lil Wayne, Jay Z, Nelly

FAQs on booking KRS-One

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    Our experienced booking agents have successfully helped clients around the world secure speakers like KRS-One for speaking engagements, personal appearances, product endorsements, or corporate entertainment since 2002. Click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page to check availability for KRS-One, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to discuss your upcoming event. One of our experienced agents will be happy to help you get speaking fee information and check availability for KRS-One or any other speaker of your choice.
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    Speaking fees for KRS-One, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book KRS-One are $50,000 - $100,000 for live events and available upon request for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire KRS-One, click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent.
  • What topics does KRS-One speak about?

    KRS-One is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Education, Entertainers, Entertainment, Host Emcee, Literary, Music, Producers and Directors, Speakers by Industry.
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    KRS-One generally travels from Los Angeles, CA, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent.
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    AAE Speakers Bureau has successfully booked keynote speakers like KRS-One for clients worldwide since 2002. As a full-service speaker booking agency, we have access to virtually any speaker or celebrity in the world. Our agents are happy and able to submit an offer to the speaker or celebrity of your choice, letting you benefit from our reputation and long-standing relationships in the industry. Please click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page including the details of your event, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536, and one of our agents will assist you to book KRS-One for your next private or corporate function.
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KRS-One is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics . The estimated speaking fee range to book KRS-One for your event is $50,000 - $100,000. KRS-One generally travels from Los Angeles, CA, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Adam Ockelford, Bethany Joy Lenz, Dolly Parton, Share Ross and Mark Ronson. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling KRS-One for an upcoming live or virtual event.

KRS-One Speaker Videos

  • KRS-One live @ Simplon, Groningen 2013 (HD)
    KRS-One talks about rap battles, Lil Wayne, Jay Z, Nelly

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