Apocalypse 91... The Enemy Strikes Black cover

Apocalypse 91... The Enemy Strikes Black

Public Enemy · 1991

52 min · 14 tracks · hardcore hip-hop · East Coast hip-hop · political hip-hop

Fierce beats and incisive lyricism fuse into a powerful critique of societal injustices and media manipulation.

Why this album works

The album debuted at number four on the Billboard 200 and was certified Gold by the RIAA, showcasing its commercial success. Tracks like 'Can't Truss It' and 'Shut Em Down' contributed to its critical acclaim, reinforcing Public Enemy's status as influential figures in hip-hop and political discourse through their unapologetic commentary on race relations and media representation.
Career context
Released on January 1, 1991, 'Apocalypse 91... The Enemy Strikes Black' is Public Enemy's fourth studio album, following their breakthrough record 'Fear of a Black Planet' from 1990. At this point in their career, the group was solidifying their role as one of hip-hop's most provocative voices, continuing to push boundaries with their politically charged messages and innovative sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Busta Rhymes· Nas· KRS-One

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Lost at Birth 3:49
  • 2 Rebirth 0:59
  • 3 Nighttrain 3:27
  • 4 Can’t Truss It 5:21
  • 5 I Don’t Wanna Be Called Yo Niga 4:23
  • 6 How to Kill a Radio Consultant 3:09
  • 7 By the Time I Get to Arizona Standout 4:48
  • 8 Move! 4:59
  • 9 1 Million Bottlebags 4:06
  • 10 More News at 11 2:39
  • 11 Shut Em Down Standout 5:04
  • 12 A Letter to the New York Post 2:45
  • 13 Get the Fuck Outta Dodge 2:37
  • 14 Bring tha Noize 3:47

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata