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Criminal Minded cover

Criminal Minded

Boogie Down Productions

Album 1987
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About this album

Sound: "Raw, unapologetic beats and sharp lyricism reflect the gritty realities of urban life in late '80s New York."

Where they were

When 'Criminal Minded' was released in March 1987, Boogie Down Productions, led by KRS-One, was on the cusp of redefining East Coast hip-hop. This debut album followed their earlier single 'South Bronx,' which had already made waves in the burgeoning hip-hop scene, setting the stage for a new wave of socially conscious rap.

Why it matters

'Criminal Minded' is considered a cornerstone of hardcore hip-hop, influencing countless artists and marking a shift towards more aggressive lyrical content. The track 'The Bridge Is Over' famously sparked a rivalry with Queensbridge rappers, showcasing its cultural impact and securing the album's place in hip-hop history.

Essential tracks

  • "South Bronx" — This track serves as a declaration of pride for the South Bronx area, laying the groundwork for future East Coast hip-hop narratives and rivalries.
  • "The Bridge Is Over" — A direct response to rival artists, this track exemplifies KRS-One's lyrical prowess and solidified his status as a leading voice in hip-hop.
  • "9mm Goes Bang" — This song combines storytelling with hard-hitting beats, illustrating the harsh realities faced by many in urban communities while showcasing the group's raw energy.
  • "Poetry" — 'Poetry' highlights KRS-One's skillful wordplay and serves as an introduction to his philosophical approach to rap, setting the tone for the album.

Release Date

March 3, 1987

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Poetry 5:03
  2. 2 South Bronx 5:11
  3. 3 9mm Goes Bang 4:20
  4. 4 Word From Our Sponsor 3:55
  5. 5 Elementary 4:07
  6. 6 Dope Beat 5:16
  7. 7 Remix for P Is Free 4:21
  8. 8 The Bridge Is Over 3:27
  9. 9 Super-Hoe 5:31
  10. 10 Criminal Minded 5:20
  11. 11 Poetry (instrumental) 2:14
  12. 12 South Bronx (instrumental) 2:16
  13. 13 9mm Goes Bang (instrumental) 2:15
  14. 14 Word From Our Sponsor (instrumental) 2:15
  15. 15 Elementary (instrumental) 2:14
  16. 16 Dope Beat (instrumental) 2:14
  17. 17 Remix for P Is Free (instrumental) 2:15
  18. 18 The Bridge Is Over (instrumental) 2:15
  19. 19 Super-Hoe (instrumental) 2:13
  20. 20 Criminal Minded (instrumental) 2:23

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