On this date in 2012, Grammy Award-winning rapper Killer Mike dropped his fifth full-length studio album titled R.A.P. Music, which stands for “Rebellious African People’s Music.” Released on the Williams Street Records imprint and produced exclusively by El-P, the project marked a pivotal moment in modern hip-hop history, serving as the catalyst for the formation of the iconic duo Run The Jewels.
The 12-track project was deeply rooted in political and socio-economic commentary, cementing Mike’s reputation as a conscious emcee and opening doors for his subsequent political advocacy in his home state of Georgia. Tracks like “Reagan” offered a scathing critique of the former POTUS, specifically addressing the Iran-Contra scandal and the introduction of crack cocaine into inner-city communities. During the album’s promotional cycle in 2012, Mike provided insight into his perspective on Reagan, stating, “Ronald Reagan was an actor. He was a pitchman at first, and so people naturally trust him. He understood how to weave magic when he was speaking, and that’s what we as entertainers do. So when Jay-Z tells you to buy some Reeboks, it means more. Ronald Reagan at one point was the biggest pitchman in the world. I think that Reagan was used by a political party, by people who had vested means, to push their own agendas.”
The album received widespread critical acclaim, earning accolades from major cultural publications including Complex, Rolling Stone, and Time Magazine. The project featured notable guest appearances from Bun B, T.I., Emily Panic, and producer El-P, who contributed a verse to “Butane Champion’s Anthem.”
As we look back on this milestone, we salute Mr. Render, El-P, and all the contributors who helped craft this essential piece of hip-hop history.
