Mr. Chuck D

Upon the release of their first album in 1987, YO BUM RUSH THE SHOW, Public Enemy became instantly the most important Black spokespeople in America. Their emphasis on knowledge and awareness rather than gold 'ropes' and buying a "Benz' has become the standard by which rap music is measured in the 90s. Their 1988 album, IT TAKES A NATION OF MILLIONS TO HOLD US BACK, consistently found itself at the top of 'favorite album' charts, and in 1989 Public Enemy's 'Fight The Power' was the pivotal song in Spike Lee's powerful and controversial movie, DO THE RIGHT THING.

In 1990, Public Enemy released FEAR OF A BLACK PLANET. the 'next step in the rap revolution.' With this album, Public Enemy's leader Chuck D sharpened the confrontational focus achieved on their previous albums. The key theme of FEAR is confrontation; the issues are homelessness, drugs, gangs, governmental systems and other compelling social concerns.

Chuck D espouses and revives the teachings of Malcolm X and many Black activist of the past in an effort to instill Black Pride among Public Enemy's followers. Chuck D's goal is to build 5000 new Black leaders, who will ensure that Blacks maintain a focused approach to the most critical societal issues confronting the Black race this decade.

"We came out in 1987, and one of my first objectives was to lessen the quest for materialism in Black people, especially Black brothers,' says Chuck D. 'Cause if brothers out there feel that they can be accepted by sisters, or be accepted in society without having to go out and buy a $3000 gold rope, then they're gonna be kinda all right. They're only doing it to impress somebody, because they're not impressed with themselves.'