KRS ONE launches his book in Hollywood

KRS ONE, the "Teacha, Teacha," finally comes to Hollywood to launch his 2009 book, The Gospel of Hip Hop.

Don't go to Amoeba Hollywood expecting KRS to rock the spot. Nope, this is billed as "an intimate Conversation and Book Signing..." It takes place in Amoeba's Jazz Room on Wednesday, July 28 at 6pm.

Bring your $25 and you'll get an advance "Gospel of Hip Hop" package that includes a book and the chance to get your book signed by KRS ONE. It's gonna sell out, kids! Click here for more info.

"The Gospel of Hip Hop: First Instrument, the first book from the I Am Hip Hop imprint set for launch in the fall of 2009, is the philosophical masterwork of KRS ONE.

Set in the format of a self-help holy book, this 800-plus-page opus is a spiritual manual for citizens of Hip Hop Kulture that combines classic philosophy with faith and practical knowledge, for a fascinating, in-depth exploration of Hip Hop as a life path.

Known as "the Teacha," KRS ONE developed his unique outlook as a homeless teen in Brooklyn, New York, engaging his philosophy of self-creation to become one of the most respected emcees in Hip Hop history. As Hip Hop's true steward, KRS ONE painstakingly details the development of the culture and the ways in which we, as "Hiphoppas," can and should preserve its future."

My Philosophy Even the most ardent hip hop fan may find this lengthy book a tough read methinks. Part hip hop history book, part self-help guide, "Gospel" promotes a future for "Hiphoppas" (a phrase coined by KRS) that incorporates "Health, Love, Awareness, and Wealth (H-LAW)." Here is a lengthy, but interesting blog on Amoeba's website.

If you don't already browse the self-help and philosophy book shelves will you pick up KRS ONE's book? I'm not so sure, but if anyone is going to bring in a new audience it's KRS. He has one of the most uplifting and long-running stories in hip hop. From fame, as one part of BDP (Boogie Down Productions) and losing his murdered partner, D.J. Scott La Rock, to creating (and relaunching) the "Stop the Violence" movement which carried his message globally. His outspoken views on the world have also attracted Ivy League college lecture invites.

Temple University lecture


"My Philosophy"