After a month long coma that started when rapper Keith Elam–better known by his stage name, Guru–went into surgery following a heart attack, the Boston native rap pioneer fell into cardiac arrest and died yesterday, April 19. Although the details have initially been kept private, it has been revealed upon Guru’s death that his illnesses had been attributed to cancerous symptoms.
Beginning an underground rap movement in late 80’s Boston that would shape and influence hip hop music of today, Guru made up half of the musical duo, Gang Starr, with musical partner, DJ Premier. For over twenty years, Guru has brought listeners a pulse pounding mix of hip-hop with elements from eclectic jazz and poetry. The end of Guru’s words now marks the end of a musical era.
Fans, friends, and family continue to mourn the passing of the musical pioneer. But while Guru may be gone, his legacy is still very much alive in the ears and hearts of those who have supported him over the years.