Guru R.I.P.

KEITH “GURU” ELAM, 43, an influential rapper as one-half of the groundbreaking rap duo Gang Starr with DJ Premier, passed away Monday (4/19) after a long battle with cancer. The pair’s first album, No More Mr. Nice Guy, came out in 1989. Guru went on to record the groundbreaking 1993 solo effort Jazzmatazz Vol. 1. DJ Premier called him “one of the best MCs and hip-hop icons of all time.” EMI Music and Virgin Records released the following statement: “Guru’s inimitable MC flow and lyrical style transcended genre by elevating social consciousness in hip-hop. We are honored to have had the privilege of working with Guru and his Gang Starr partner Premier for their brilliant, landmark achievements in recorded music.” Here's a tribute to the late rapper. (4/20p)