Gang Starr

Released: January 15, 1991

Songwriter: DJ Premier Guru

Producer: Guru DJ Premier

So many things will happen that one can't explain
You find yourself saying "why me", time and again
They say what goes around, comes around
Ahun, so think about it while you're messing up clown
A mother's love and a father's concern
Here is the reason you should listen and learn
Cause quick schemes and fast living can kill ya
I know how the excitement and danger can thrill ya
But take it from somebody who knows
Cause after all the highs, you're gonna feel all the lows
This is why knowledge of self is essential
Cause if you don't have it, you may simply go mental
See, life is not a thing to be toyed wit
Cause every second, another dream is destroyed wit
The systematic plan devised to erase us
And straight to hell is where they're trying to take us
But never fold and hold back your fears
Have a strong mind and try to say your prayers

Gang Starr is the formidable hip-hop duo of MC Guru and producer DJ Premier.

The group was originally founded by two childhood friends, Big Shug and Guru, in Atlanta; coming up with the logo design and name of the group. Big Shug and Guru got separated when Shug got imprisoned and Guru moved to New York where he met Dj Premier.

While DJ Premier is from Texas and the monotone Guru is from Boston, they came together in Brooklyn, New York, and helped define the sound of East Coast hip-hop in the 1990s with their jazzy production on singles such as “Words I Manifest” and “Jazz Thing,” as well as their harder boom bap singles like “Just to Get a Rep” and “Take it Personal.”

more tracks from the album

Step in the Arena

From the album

Step in the Arena (1991)

Gang Starr popular songs

Say Your PrayersGang Starr

Gang Starr

Step in the Arena