The art of lyricism is a craft that’s been studied and tried by a number of rap artists, but Kool G Rap stands out as one of its most esteemed practitioners. Raised in Corona, Queens, the self-proclaimed Kool Genius of Rap began living up to that claim during the ’80s, as his rap skills earned him a recording contract with Cold Chillin’ Records and induction into the legendary Juice Crew.
After the release of their breakout single “It’s a Demo” and his appearance on the iconic posse cut “The Symphony,” G Rap and groupmate DJ Polo released a succession of albums as a unit, their 1992 effort Live and Let Die being the last.
While many artists who originated in his era failed to sustain their success in light of Hip-Hop’s shifting landscape, Kool G Rap proved himself adaptable while simultaneously transitioning into a solo career. With more than 25 years behind the mic on his resume, the rap expert remains a constant fixture in the culture, most recently releasing his latest studio album Last of a Dying Breed.
In celebration of his 55th birthday, we highlighted the five songs that cemented Kool G Rap’s place among the lyrical greats.
“Road To The Riches”
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In 1989, Kool G Rap and DJ Polo unleashed their debut album, Road to the Riches, with this titular track serving as its lead single. Produced by DJ Polo and Marley Marl, the song finds Kool G rhyming about his pursuit of wealth and fortune, by any means necessary.
“Rikers Island”
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Long before programs like Scared Straight, Kool G Rap left halfway crooks shaking in their boots with this classic tune detailing the violence and treachery that occurs on “Rikers Island.” Initially released in 1987, the song was later included on G Rap and DJ Polo’s sophomore album Wanted: Dead or Alive and sampled by N.O.R.E. on his 1998 solo debut N.O.R.E.
“Ill Street Blues”
Image Credit: Al Pereira/Getty Images/Michael Ochs Archives
Kool G Rap spins a trio of tales revolving around thievery and revenge on this rollicking number from his 1992 album Live and Let Die. Produced by Trackmasters, the song takes inspiration from the dramatic crime series Hill Street Blues and serves as a testament to Kool G’s prowess of conjuring visceral scenes through rhyme.
“All My Life” Featuring G-Wise
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Following a lengthy hiatus during the late ’90s and early ’00s, Kool G Rap reemerged with a million-dollar contract with Rawkus Records and a new album, The Giancana Story. Released in 2002, the project was led by the single “My Life,” a triumphant salvo that found the rap vet sounding spry, volleying complex couplets atop production by The Mighty V.I.C. & Mike Heron.
“Fast Life” Featuring Nas
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After splitting with DJ Polo, Kool G Rap returned in 1995 with his solo debut 4,5,6, an album reaffirmed his status as one of the premier wordsmiths in Hip-Hop. Connecting with fellow Queens native Nas on “Fast Life,” the former Juice Crew member traded couplets about living the American dream with his younger counterpart, resulting in arguably his most classic collaborative effort to date.
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