What does Shut Em Down sound like?

Fierce beats and politically charged lyrics collide in a relentless call for social justice. Rooted in hardcore hip-hop and East Coast hip-hop.

What makes Shut Em Down by Public Enemy notable?

'Shut Em Down' is significant for its powerful commentary on racial injustice and systemic oppression. The track 'By the Time I Get to Arizona' became notable for its bold protest against the state of Arizona's decision not to recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day, highlighting Public Enemy's role as cultural activists within hip-hop. Released in 1991, 'Shut Em Down' follows Public Enemy's critically acclaimed album 'Fear of a Black Planet'. At this point in their career, the group solidified their position as leaders of politically charged hip-hop, continuing to challenge mainstream narratives and provoke thought on issues affecting the African American community.

Who is Shut Em Down for?

Shut Em Down works well if you're into front-loaded energetic listening experience, politically charged engagement and short bursts of intensity.

How many songs are on Shut Em Down?

Shut Em Down has 6 tracks, running approximately 24 minutes.

Shut Em Down

Public Enemy · 1991

24 min · 6 tracks · hardcore hip-hop · East Coast hip-hop · political hip-hop

Fierce beats and politically charged lyrics collide in a relentless call for social justice.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

front-loaded energetic listening experience
politically charged engagement
short bursts of intensity
call to action vibes

Maybe skip if you want

seeking long, immersive tracks
prefer mellow, relaxed sounds

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1991, 'Shut Em Down' follows Public Enemy's critically acclaimed album 'Fear of a Black Planet'. At this point in their career, the group solidified their position as leaders of politically charged hip-hop, continuing to challenge mainstream narratives and provoke thought on issues affecting the African American community.
Stylistic neighbors: KRS-One· Nas· A Tribe Called Quest

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Tracklist

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

1 Shut Em Down (Pe-Te Rock mixx) 4:42
2 Shut Em Down (Rock mixx instrumental) 4:42
3 Shut Em Down (LP version) 4:20
4 Shut Em Down (Bald Beat Breakapella) 3:05
5 By the Time I Get to Arizona 4:02
6 By the Time I Get to Arizona (Arizona Assassination Attempt Acca-Double dub) 3:08

What to play next

Listen next

Apocalypse 91... The Enemy Strikes Black

1991

Go back to

Fear of a Black Planet

1990

Full Public Enemy discography Where to start with Public Enemy Artists like Public Enemy

East Coast hip-hop hardcore hip-hop political hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata