Books Written by KRS-One
Books Written by Rapper KRS-One
KRS-One (Lawrence “Kris” Parker) is a foundational voice in Rap/Hip-Hop, he’s a teacher, lecturer, and cultural critic who treats the music as a philosophy as much as an art form. His books move between practical instruction, cultural critique, and spiritual/ethical exploration, reflecting the same pedagogy and moral urgency he brings to the stage. How many books has KRS-One written? 3. (so far at the time of this post). Here’s a look at the books written by KRS-One:
1. The Science of Rap (1995)
Publisher: Self Published
Release Date: 1995
Page Length: 69 pages
ISBN: Unknown
Originally self-published in the mid-1990s, The Science of Rap functions as a primer and manifesto for emcees who want to master the craft. KRS-One breaks down rhyme construction, flow, and the responsibilities of an MC, while also connecting technical skill to the larger cultural role of Rap/Hip-Hop. It’s compact but dense part how-to, part credo, and demonstrates why he earned the nickname “The Teacha.”
What’s Inside KRS-One’s The Science of Rap book?:
• Practical lessons on rhyme schemes, cadence, and breath control
• Exercises and examples for sharpening lyricism
• Reflections on hip-hop’s social role and responsibilities of MCs
• Short, direct lessons aimed at new and developing emcees
2. Ruminations (2003)
Publisher: Welcome Rain
Release Date: June 12, 2003
Page Length: 240 pages
ISBN: 9781566492744
Ruminations collects essays, reflections, and poetic passages that dig into culture, identity, and the future of Rap/Hip-Hop. With a mix of memoir, analysis, and polemic, KRS-One interrogates the music industry, education, and social conditions while offering a spiritual and ethical perspective. Foreword by Tavis Smiley, the book reads like conversations and lectures condensed onto the page; thoughtful, provocative, and unapologetically instructive.
What’s Inside KRS-One’s Ruminations book?:
• Essays on Rap/Hip-Hop history, politics, and cultural responsibility
• Personal reflections and philosophical meditations
• Commentary on the music business and community leadership
• Guidance for artists who want to use Rap/Hip-Hop as a positive force
3. The Gospel of Hip Hop: The First Instrument (2009)
Publisher: Powerhouse Books
Release Date: October 24, 2009
Page Length: 832 pages
ISBN: 9781576874974
KRS-One’s most ambitious work, The Gospel of Hip Hop: The First Instrument, is an 800+ page philosophical masterwork that frames hip-hop as a way of life. Presented in a scripture-like format, the book aims to codify Rap/Hip-Hop’s ethics, history, and practices, turning cultural lessons into a guide for living. It’s equal parts theology, cultural manifesto, and survival manual, intended to preserve hip-hop’s teachings for future generations.
What’s Inside KRS-One’s The Gospel of Hip Hop: The First Instrument book?:
• A scripture-style presentation of Rap/Hip-Hop philosophy and principles
• Historical context and teachings on the four elements and cultural practice
• Practical guidance for living by Rap/Hip-Hop values (ethics, unity, self-knowledge)
• Essays, parables, and aphorisms that read like lessons from a teacher
• A preservationist aim to codify Rap/Hip-Hop for future cultural education
KRS-One’s books make plain that his role extends beyond performer to educator and cultural historian. From the hands-on technical coaching of The Science of Rap, to the reflective essays of Ruminations, to the sweeping, scripture-styled The Gospel of Hip Hop, his written work seeks to teach, preserve, and elevate hip-hop culture. For listeners, students, and scholars, these books are essential complements to his music and lectures.
Want to read more Hip-Hop books like any of these titles? Check our full collection at HipHopBooks.com for the greatest books in Rap/Hip-Hop.
A book every Rap/Hip-Hop fan should have in their library is the Rap Dictionary.
You can read our ultimate list of rappers who have written books/books written by rappers here.
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