In its history Hip Hop has had a handful of stand-out years. And for many true fans there is little debate that 1988 was the true 'Golden Era'. Countless classic albums came out that year and Boogie Down Productions' By Any Means Necessary ranks high atop that list. Following the fatal shooting of the groups DJ/Producer Scott La Rock in 1987, KRS One was determined to continue BDP despite the tragedy. Taking the group in a slightly different direction, adopting the moniker 'Teacher' and taking on social issues, KRS crafted an album that to this day still sounds fresh and exciting. From the moment the album starts with the infectious saxophone sample on 'My Philosophy' or the Reggae influenced 'Stop the Violence' to the straight up braggadocios 'I'm Still #1', By Any Means Necessary proves why it's one of the most important and classic albums ever recorded. Other stand out tracks include 'Illegal Business' which is a look at how the drug trade corrupts the police and government, while 'Jimmy' warns us to the pit falls of a 'big butt and a smile.' Just based on the album's cover alone, an ode to the famous Ebony Magazine Malcolm X photograph, By Any Means Necessary was able to make one the biggest statements in Hip Hop history that is just as important today as it was in '88...or as KRS says 'Fresh for 88 you suck-azzzz'
