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