American rapper who received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2008 BET Awards for his work in the Stop the Violence Movement. He developed the collective Boogie Down Productions, with whom he released his album Criminal Minded in 1987.

Before Fame

He left home when he was 14 years old to become an MC and philosopher and lived in a homeless shelter in South Bronx, NY.

Trivia

He founded the Temple of Hip Hop, a ministry, School and Society in support of Hip Hop as a political movement. His MC name stands for Knowledge Reigns Supreme Over Nearly Everyone.

Family Life

He was married to fellow musician Ms. Melodie for five years before divorcing. He later married Simone Parker. His stepson, Randy, committed suicide in 2007.

Associated With

He was featured on Michael Stipe's band, R.E.M.'s song, Radio Song in 1991.