Hip hop luminaries KRS-One and Buckshot, arguably two of the genres most prolific emcees have come together to give fans a collaborative album, Survival Skills, in stores today on Duck Down Records. Boasting guest appearances from Mary J. Blige, Slug (Atmosphere), K’NAAN, Talib Kweli, Pharoahe Monch, Melanie Fiona, Naledge (Kidz In The Hall), Sean Price, Smif N Wessun, Immortal Technique, Bounty Killer, and Rock of Heltah Skeltah, and production from the likes of Havoc of Mobb Deep, 9th Wonder, Black Milk, ILL MIND, Marco Polo, Nottz, Moss and Coptic amongst others, KRS-One and Buckshot have created an album that is socially responsible, lyrically sharp and sonically banging.
KRS-One and Buckshot are the epitome of rap longevity and relevancy. Following the release of the seminal rap classic Criminal Minded (1987) with Boogie Down Productions, KRS-One instantly became an icon, going on to release a collection of essential works including By All Means Necessary (1988) and Return of the Boom Bap (1993). Similarly when Buckshot made his debut with Enta Da Stage (1993) as Black Moon’s front man, fans instantly took notice.
Gritty tracks like “Clean Up Crew”, featuring Rock of Heltah Skeltah and the politically minded “Running Away” featuring Immortal Technique, make Survival Skills a hip-hop fan’s dream, catering to those that love lyrics and the boom-bap. Equally as rich is the album’s Black Milk produced track, “The Way I Live” featuring the queen of hip-hop soul, Mary J. Blige. Together they create a triumphant anthem for all those on the grind trying to conquer their dreams. The song’s summery feel and soothing melodies make it an instant hit.
KRS-ONE & BUCKSHOT have received mainstream success with their “ROBOT” single. The video for the track has been in rotation at MTV, BET, BETJ, VH1 Soul, Music Choice and FUSE. BET’s 106 & Park showcased the video as a new joint of the day last week.
Both KRS-One and Buckshot have made an indelible mark on the genre throughout the years. KRS-One’s 2007 collaborative album, Hip Hop Lives, with producer Marly Marl was critically acclaimed and his work on “Classic”, the Kanye West, Nas and Rakim featured track celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Nike’s Air Force 1 shoe, earned him a Grammy nomination. Buckshot has also continued to churn-out some of the genres most progressive projects, most notably his 9th Wonder produced albums Chemistry (2005) and The Formula (2008). Couple those with the licensing deals which have landed Buck’s music on networks like ESPN and The History Channel, as well as an episode of CSI Las Vegas and it’s clear to see why the emcee has become so influential.
Upcoming KRS-ONE & BUCKSHOT EVENTS: September 16th: FYE In-Store, 100 S Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA from 6PM – 7PM. Customers who purchase KRS-ONE & BUCKSHOT’s album will receive a free ticket to see their performance later that evening at The Trocadero
September 16th: Free Myspace Music Release Show at The Trocadero (1003 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA). Doors Open at 8PM. All Ages event!
September 17th: Long Island, NY: Show at the Crazy Donkey (1058 Broadhollow Rd, Farmingdale, NY)
September 18th: Portland, ME: Show at the Port City Music Hall (504 Congress St, Portland, ME)
September 19th: Providence, RI: Show at the Jerky’s Music Hall (71 Richmond Street, Providence, RI)
September 20th: New Haven, CT: Boot Camp Clik & M.O.P. show at Toad’s Place (300 York Street, New Haven, CT)
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