#VitalFactz: 12th Anniversary - RIP Keith "Guru" Elam

It was 12 years ago today the Hip Hop industry suffered yet another tragic loss as one half of the duo Gang Starr. Guru, born Keith Edward Elam passed away. He was 48 years old. Gang Starr first came on the scene in 1989 with their debut album No More Mr. Nice Guy. This album featured the singles Words I Manifest & Positivity. In 1991 they released their follow-up LP Step In The Arena, which featured the singles Just To Get A Rep, Lovesick & Who's Gonna Take The Weight?. Their 1992 Album Daily Operation included the single Take It Personal (with D.W.Y.C.K. as the B-Side) as well as Ex To The Next Girl. In 1993 Guru released the first volume of his solo Jazzmatazz series Guru's Jazzmatazz, Vol. 1 . This featured the songs Lougin' & Le Bien, Le Mal. In 1994 Gang Starr returned with their 4th album Hard To Earn, which included the singles Mass Appeal & Code Of The Streets. In 1995 Guru released his second Jazzmatazz Album Jazzmatazz, Vol. 2: The New Reality, featuring Watch What You Say. 1998 would see Gang Starr reach their peak as their 5th LP Moment Of Truth would be Certified Gold. It peaked at #1 6 on Billboard's Hot 200 Albums Chart & topped the R&B Albums Chart. It features the singles You Know My Steez, The Militia & Royalty. In 2003 the duo would release their final album made during his lifetime, which was called The Ownerz. It included the single Skills. As a solo artist, Guru had made 4 Jazzmatazz album & 7 albums altogether. He is survived by his parents, 3 siblings & a son. Rest In peace to the one & only Keith Edward "Guru" Elam July 17, 1961 - April 19, 2010.