Founded in 1987, Gang Starr built a sizable following in the early 90's, releasing classic albums like Step in the Arena (1991) and Daily Operation (1992). Guru's lyrical style was based on battle rhymes delivered smoothly, modestly, and with sly wit; he typically avoided using overwhelming charisma, focusing instead on his rhyming ability. Over the years he even took on younger rappers, including Jeru the Damaja, as proteges. He is credited, along with DJ Premier, for the executive production of Jeru's debut, The Sun Rises in the East (1994).
In 1993, he released his first solo album, Jazzmatazz, Vol. 1. The album featured collaborations with Donald Byrd, N'Dea Davenport, Dee C. Lee, and Roy Ayers, whilst his second LP, Jazzmatazz, Vol. 2: The New Reality, featured Ramsey Lewis, Branford Marsalis, and Jamiroquai. The Jazzmatazz albums have been met with mixed reviews, Guru continued with Jazzmatazz, Vol. 3: Streetsoul (2000) and Baldhead Slick & Da Click (2001).
Moreover, recent Gang Starr albums have continued to garner Guru critical acclaim. Prominent Boston underground rapper Mr. Lif frequently cites Guru as a major stylistic influence; he appears as a guest with Lif on the Perceptionists' debut album, Black Dialogue (2005).
Besides Gang Starr, his Jazzmatazz and solo albums, Guru collaborated with countless artists since the early 90s. Not only in Hip-Hop, but also with artists from various genres such as pop, electronica/dance, acid jazz, and even brass bands.
His "first proper solo album", in his own words, was Version 7.0: The Street Scriptures (2005), released with the help of producer and new backup MC/producer Solar. The album reached #1 on the college hip-hop charts, but was a failure with both fans and critics. It still managed to sell relatively well for an independent release.
Guru's latest project is the fourth installment in the Jazzmatazz series, entirely produced by Solar. It was released in early June 2007 and received good reviews and comments from fans.
In 2007 Guru was ranked at 45 for the Top 50 MCs of our time: 1987-2007
On February 28th 2010, Guru suffered a severe heart attack and was in a coma. He passed away on April 19, 2010 at the age of 49 after a long battle with cancer.
Theres another artist with the same name:
2. Guru also refers to a Ghanaian hip-hop artist known for his single "LaPaz Toyota" and the song "Akayida" - basis for a azonto dance craze
Respectful Dedications
Guru Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
These great musicians and vocalists, real, real, real smooth
There was like a connections of vibe or whatever you wanna call it
'Cause these are folks I'll never forget, 'cause they're deep, word is bond
Also special shout out to my man Jazzy Nice and Lil Dap for ya added fling
I dedicate this album to the memory of both my grandparents, E. Edward Clarke and Robert Ilo
To my parents and family and to my man George A. Johnson, uncle G
So yo, here's some more
In the opening lines of Guru's song "Respectful Dedications," he acknowledges and pays homage to his fellow musicians and vocalists with whom he has worked. He expresses his admiration for their smooth collaboration and connection, which he attributes to a deep sense of understanding and mutual respect. He emphasizes the importance of this connection by saying that he will never forget these people due to the profound emotional impact they've made on him.
Guru also takes the opportunity to dedicate his album to several important individuals in his life. He pays tribute to his grandparents, E. Edward Clarke and Robert Ilo, who have passed away, and his parents and family, who have provided him with support and guidance throughout his life. He also dedicates the album to his friend and mentor, George A. Johnson, also known as Uncle G. Through these dedications, Guru shows that his music is deeply personal and reflective of his life experiences.
Overall, "Respectful Dedications" is a heartfelt tribute that pays tribute to the people who have shaped Guru's life and music. It demonstrates the important role that personal connections and relationships play in artistic creation and highlights the human emotions that underpin Guru's work.
Line by Line Meaning
Yeah like I was saying, who's real smooth working with this squad of people
I'm proud to be collaborating with these amazing musicians and vocalists who are extremely talented and easy to work with.
These great musicians and vocalists, real, real, real smooth
The musicians and vocalists I'm working with are incredibly talented and their skills are undeniable.
There was like a connections of vibe or whatever you wanna call it
There was a strong connection or understanding between us, an unexplainable energy that allowed us to create something special.
'Cause these are folks I'll never forget, 'cause they're deep, word is bond
I'll always remember and appreciate these people because they have such a profound impact on me and the work we created together was truly meaningful.
Also special shout out to my man Jazzy Nice and Lil Dap for ya added fling
I want to give a special shout-out to Jazzy Nice and Lil Dap for their contributions to the album, which added a unique flavor to the overall sound.
I dedicate this album to the memory of both my grandparents, E. Edward Clarke and Robert Ilo
This album is dedicated to my grandparents, E. Edward Clarke and Robert Ilo who have passed away, and who remain an important influence on my life and music.
To my parents and family and to my man George A. Johnson, uncle G
I also want to dedicate this album to my parents, family, and my Uncle George A. Johnson (Uncle G) who have supported me and inspired me throughout my life and career.
So yo, here's some more
So without further ado, here's more of what I have to offer in this album.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Royalty Network
Written by: Keith Elam
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind