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| Babygrande Records Remembers Keith "Guru" Elam A year ago, the world lost a true musical pioneer when Keith Edward Elam, better known to fans as Guru, abruptly passed away. To honor his legacy, Revive Da Live Big Band played a tribute show last night at Le Poisson Rouge in memory of Guru and his Jazzmatazz series. At last night's event, Babygrande Records showed respect to one of rap's most influential lyricists. Babygrande Records' founder Chuck Wilson made a $5, 000 donation to Guru's son, K.C. Elam, on behalf of Babygrande and longtime Guru affiliates, Group Home. Wilson told HipHopDX, "We lost an international treasure with Guru's passing. The music he made with DJ Premier as Gang Starr and as a solo artist had a profound impact on my life. It was an honor to share the evening with his friends and family and to make a direct donation to his son KC on behalf of Group Home and Babygrande Records." The Revive Da Live Big Band Tribute to G.U.R.U. paid homage to Guru's groundbreaking Jazzmatazz series in which he masterfully fused jazz and hip-hop. Under the direction of pianist Mac Cary and trumpeter Igmar Thomas, the Revive Da Live Big Band along with several guests celebrated the creativity of Keith Elam. Guest performers included longtime collaborator and one-half of Gang Starr, DJ Premier. Also in attendance was Guru's nephew Justin Elam-Ruff, who unveiled The X Label: G.U.R.U.'s Clothing Line. write your comments about the article :: © 2011 Jazz News :: home page |