One of the greatest groups in the history of not just hip hop, but music in general was Public Enemy.
Many fans have quoted some of their best work such as “Sad to say I got sold down the river, still some quiver when I deliver!” and the simple, but effect “Fight The Power”. The hip hop world did not see a force of this nature up until their point and their message resonated with the people.
This was cause for concern in the minds of government officials. Despite hip hop being in its infancy in the 70’s and 80’s, the genre saw significant increase in its exposure from its original days in the inner city of New York five burro section.
Chuck D’s resounding voice captured the minds and hearts of many, while Flava Flave entertained viewers with his dancing and unique hype man qualities. Of course, their popularity soon became a threat to the political structure under the Regan administration. Their music videos were reaching millions of youth and it also sparked the minds of up and coming hip hop artists such as Tupac Shakur, Nas, and many more for years to come.
With songs that hit the core issues of society, the government had to take a serious look at the power Public Enemy was wielding with a new generation of blacks that were looking for ways to make an impact on society that differentiated itself from the civil rights movement.
Chuck D breaks down what it was like for him and his group during the time period. In an interview with the cast at Yanandeem godcast with Lord Jamar, Rah Digga, and Godfrey, he laid it all out.
“If you know truth scream truth” in the video below which sums his thoughts on having a target on his back as a political rapper.
