Survival Skills cover

Survival Skills

KRS-One

Album 2009

About this album

Sound: "A raw and reflective blend of hard-hitting beats and incisive lyrics addressing social realities."

Where they were

By the time KRS-One released 'Survival Skills' in 2009, he was a seasoned veteran of the hip-hop scene, known for his relentless advocacy for social justice. This album came after his previous effort, 'The Mix Tape', and marked a return to more traditional sounds that defined his earlier work while maintaining relevance in a changing musical landscape.

Why it matters

'Survival Skills' received critical acclaim for its insightful lyrics and production, reaffirming KRS-One's status as a conscious hip-hop pioneer. The album is notable for its collaboration with various artists, enhancing its appeal within the genre and contributing to discussions on social issues prevalent at the time.

Essential tracks

  • "Survival Skills" — The title track encapsulates KRS-One's philosophy of resilience and awareness, setting the tone for the entire album.
  • "Connection" — This track features sharp commentary on community ties and struggles, showcasing KRS-One's lyrical dexterity and depth.
  • "Murder 1" — 'Murder 1' addresses the harsh realities of violence in urban life, making it a poignant highlight that resonates with listeners.

Release Date

January 1, 2009

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Survival Skills 3:53
  2. 2 Robot 4:06
  3. 3 The Way I Live 3:58
  4. 4 Clean Up Crew 3:56
  5. 5 Oh Really 3:13
  6. 6 Connection 5:22
  7. 7 Runnin Away 4:39
  8. 8 Think of All the Things 4:03
  9. 9 One Shot 3:46
  10. 10 Amazin 3:46
  11. 11 Hear No Evil 3:20
  12. 12 Murder 1 3:58
  13. 13 We Made It 4:24
  14. 14 Past*Present*Future 4:35