DJ Premier Elbows the Wackness Out of the Way at Yugong Yishan
As one half of Gang Starr, DJ Premier has already justified his place among hip-hop’s pantheon of heroes. Following the death in April of the duo’s MC, Guru (aka Keith Elam), Premier arrives in Beijing this week as the group’s sole surviving member. We caught Primo in a sober mood as he reflected on losing his friend and long-term collaborator, on the controversy over Guru’s “farewell letter,” and on the musical scores he still hasn’t settled.
Guru’s passing away must have been rough on you.
It’s rough, and it’s gonna take a while to get over this one. Every day, another thought of our times together takes me to another place, of what built our success as Gang Starr, and also of Guru and Premier as friends.Has his death caused you to pause and reflect on your own life?
Most definitely. He was 48, and I’m 44. It’s that time of your life where you gotta think about that second half of living to make it to 100 years old.
Guru’s “farewell letter” wasn’t diplomatic in its references to you.
I would like to see the letter. Guru and I were not enemies. I’ve known Goo – that’s what I call him – for 22 years. Besides his blood relatives, whom I also know well, and Big Shug, I know him better than anybody. Sure we had fist fights all the way back since 1990 – but what group doesn’t?
There’s talk of a tribute show this summer. Will you take part?
I did my tribute when I went to the hospital to tell him that I loved him. My weekly radio show was the other way. The rest is to support the Elam family and Guru’s son whenever they need me. Count me in as long as it only involves them.
What’s the highest praise you’ve received so far as a producer?
My three Grammys from my work with Jay-Z, D’Angelo and Christina Aguilera.
What haven’t you achieved yet?
Scoring films, developing kids’ TV shows and having a successful record company.
You’ve been credited with helping launch the careers of the likes of Jay-Z and Nas. Who’s next for Premier?
The artists on my label, Year Round Records – NYGz, Blaq Poet, Nick Javas and Khaleel.
You’re working on a new album with KRS-One. What do two grown-up, hip-hop veterans – and legends – talk about in the studio?
When you’re grown-up, the conversations get better and better, from hip-hop all the way to life, politics and makin’ a slammin’ LP to elbow the wackness out of the way.
Who would be in your hip-hop dream team?
KRS-One, Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, Chuck D and Guru, and Ice Cube as major backup.
Step in the arena with DJ Premier tomorrow night (Jun 24) at Yugong Yishan. RMB 100, RMB 70 (advance). 9pm.
