Search - KRS-One :: Spiritual Minded

The Teacha Learns The Truth

The Griot | New Jersey | 03/14/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This album is straight up PHAT. KRS-One, arguably the greatest MC of all time, takes it to another level by espousing faith in Jesus Christ. His trademark boldness and authority, combined with a righteous gospel message, is just what the hip-hop community needs. Though as a Christian I don't agree with Louis Farrakhan's religious views, I compare KRS-One to Farrakhan in that he makes clean and holy living sound manly, strong and desirable (which, in fact, it is). He spits lyrics that denounce fornication, hatred and materialism (which, by the way, are destroying the black community) and still manages to come off harder than any gangsta rapper out there. The beats are vintage BDP (minimalist, head knod, and hardcore) and his flow is, of course, on point. His guests rock well, particularly T-Bone, who boasts a ridiculous flow on "The Struggle Continues.'' KRS does spit a few contradictions - promoting transcendental meditation and saying that any manifestation of God is legit - but I chalk that up to his newness to the Christian faith. In time, perhaps even by now, he will realize that those views contradict Christ's message. But the contradictions are sparse and overall, the gospel message shines bright. Because of KRS-One's status in hip hop, this may be the album that pushes gospel hip hop into the mainstream hip hop community. For those haters, you're trippin' if you think there is no legit gospel rap out there. You probably haven't heard anything but DC Talk or some other wack crew. And don't call Kirk Franklin hip hop. There is plenty of dope gospel hip hop (real hip hop) out there. In fact, because underground (true) hip hop is more valued in the Christian community than in the mainstream radio rap community, much gospel rap is superior to the mess that's promoted on the radio. Check it out for yourself. Go to a Christian bookstore and peep these artists: Breathe Eazy; The Cross Movement; New Breed; Tunnel Rats; Obadiah One; King Cyz; Nuwine; T-Bone; Fourth Avenue Jones; Lil' Raskull; Elle R.O.C.; DJ Maj; Prime Minister. Finally, to say that gospel hip hop is corny is ridiculous. The message is not what makes hip hop corny, it's the flow or the beats. And gospel MCs can flip it as well as secular ones. True hip hop kicks any message, whether conscious, gangsta, storytelling, fun, black power or gospel. Don't be fooled into thinking that hip hop has to be gangsta to be hardcore. KRS-One crushes that philosophy on "Spiritual Minded.''"

Down to da real !

Jason King | Seattle, WA | 03/11/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Ok ok here is the deal. KRS-ONE is an all time great. All time meaning last year, the year before and next year as well. I gave 4 stars however 3 1/2 are probably more like it. This does not mean that I don't like the CD. Really the CD is balanced between greatness and not-so-greatness. I was surprised to see KRS doin Gospel. Is it gospel though. I bought the CD and have enjoyed it a lot. I just skip tracks and pretend it's a great EP. Because, there are a few tracks that are not only outright immature but offensive to the ear. Very poor R&B vocals throughout. TO REDEEM THE PROJECT THOUGH, KRS COMES TIGHT ON THE OTHER SONGS. I bold that because it is important. He makes my mind come alive. I appreciate that. Also, his delivery and diction make him a true MASTER OF CER. If he is truely a Christian, and not just another one pimpin out the Gospel, I can tell that he is dealing with some issues. Such as trancendental Meditation, any god is ok, and who is God not goddess. These are some things he says in a few of the tracks. He advocates that type of meditation, says to manifest in your life whatever you believe god to be, and seems to be confused as to whether God is God or goddess. KRS Jesus said "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." John 14:6In a quick conclusion I still recomend this CD and I am serious about that. I feel that it is just prematurely released.
Had KRS waited a while longer and let God work on him a bit more it could have been masterpiece quality. It had that potential. Sounds more like a demo though. Gods timing is important. GO BUY IT NOW it is a wise investment nonetheless and a far better place to invest your cheese."

Off the hook

Cornelius Henderson | Chicago, IL | 02/19/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"You might think, "KRS-ONE, doing gospel rap?", but he pulls it off with great effect and impact. The rhymes are classic Blastmaster...he is the best of all time, forget what you heard. Who else could rap about gaining a higher spiritual consciousness, living your life right, and attaining love in one's life and still be dope on the lyrics. Please believe it! Most people knock KRS because his beats are not "hooky" or flashy like your average MC...but that is because he is not your average MC. The beats bang for the styles he kicks...he has substance over slickness and knowledge for these young people lost in the muck of this everyday hip-hop. This is a winner! Some of the cuts are not my cup of tea...too sappy, the singing, the melodies...but I really can not hate on it. As a total package I would recommend it."