By All Means Necessary
Boogie Down Productions · 1988
47 min · 10 tracks · hardcore hip-hop
A sharp, socially conscious blend of hard-hitting beats and incisive lyrics that critiques systemic issues within urban life.
Top tracks — play these first
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My Philosophy — This track encapsulates KRS-One's educational approach to hip-hop, blending personal philosophy with broader societal critiques that set the tone for the album.
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Stop the Violence — A powerful anthem against gun violence, this track exemplifies the group's commitment to addressing pressing social issues through their music and resonated deeply with listeners.
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I’m Still #1 — This track serves as both a declaration of KRS-One's dominance in the rap game and an introspective look at his journey, balancing bravado with authenticity.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends sharp lyrics with diverse production, making it both impactful and distinct in its genre.
What we noticed
- Several tracks feature call-and-response structures, engaging the listener directly and emphasizing the communal aspect of hip-hop.
- The production incorporates samples from jazz and funk, creating a rich backdrop for the incisive lyrics that address systemic issues.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady, consistent energy levels
- thought-provoking lyrical content
- mid-tempo reflective moments
- engaging social commentary focus
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By All Means Necessary is Boogie Down Productions' sophomore album, released in 1988, following their groundbreaking debut Criminal Minded. This album marked a significant evolution in their sound, showcasing a deeper commitment to social justice themes and a more polished production style, as KRS-One solidified his role as a leading voice in hip-hop.
- Stylistic neighbors
- KRS-One· Public Enemy· Eric B. & Rakim
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 My Philosophy 5:41
- 2 Ya Slippin’ 4:56
- 3 Stop the Violence 4:42
- 4 Illegal Business 5:21
- 5 Nervous 4:13
- 6 I’m Still #1 5:13
- 7 Part Time Suckers 5:32
- 8 Jimmy 4:16
- 9 T’cha – T’cha 4:35
- 10 Necessary 2:57
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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