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Moment of Truth; R.I.P. GURU

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One of the greatest lyricists of all time, GURU (Gifted, Unlimited, Rhymes Universal), passed yesterday at the age of 43. He had been battling with cancer for over a year and had been in a coma since February.

GURU was the voice and one half of the legendary hip hop outfit Gang Starr, which is almost unanimously acclaimed as one of the best hip hop groups of all time. They never reached the commercial success that others had, but in a way, that seemed to add to the true nature and allure of their music.

GURU's lyrics preached righteousness and truth to one's self. He was a man of the people who touched upon real experiences in a voice that proved to be street-tough yet poetic. GURU was a teacher. A professor of day-to-day struggles, whose charismatic rhymes brought peace during rough times.

It's wonderful to see all the love directed at GURU via Twitter and other internet sources today. Proof this man touched many peoples' lives in one way or another. Unfortunately, rumors are spreading quickly about the validity of GURU's final letter to his family, friends, and fans. Speculation has it that Solar, GURU's latest producer and self-proclaimed best friend, actually wrote GURU's final words, which included harsh remarks towards DJ Premier (the other half of Gang Starr). There's plenty more to this story which will keep hip-hop conspirators raving for years to come, I'm sure, but I'd rather keep this post a positive one by remembering all the good things GURU did for us.

So although today is a sad day for music, specifically a struggling hip hop culture that continuously seems to be losing the plot more and more as time goes by, we celebrate your life and the music you left us GURU; may you rest in peace.

-pb

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Harrison Katz Interview

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Being the newcomer on any kind of scene is never easy. Thick skin and strong will are required. One must prove his or her validity and work hard to gain acceptance. So is the case of Harrison Katz, the 19 year old college student turned local politician.

Katz is running for one of three seats available in this year’s Santa Clarita City Council elections. Yes, the odds are against him, not only due to his age, but also being a democrat running in what is widely regarded a conservative town. Yet none of this has stopped Katz from persevering.

After registering for his candidacy in late December, Katz has tirelessly ran a convincing campaign that has caught the attention of almost an entire town.

But will it be enough?

Nearly 40% of Santa Clarita is under the age of 25, but only 5% are between the ages of 20 and 25. If you add 18 and 19 year olds to the mix, the number would still be under 10% of the voting population. And of that percentage it’s unclear how many will vote.

Not to say that only young adults will be voting for Katz, fresh blood and new perspective make for a persuasive campaign, especially in today’s political climate. And Katz is no stranger to politics. His father, Martin Katz, was Ted Kennedy’s campaign finance director during his run for U.S. president in 1980.

“He’s got an interest in improving the community, he thinks he can bring a unique perspective to the city, and he certainly takes it seriously,” says Martin about his son.

Katz’s previous political experience includes being an aide to a Congressional candidate here in the 25th district, as well as serving as an intern in the Southern California office of the former Lt. Governor. Katz is also the founder and president of COC’s Political Science Club.

Please check out my interview with Katz from earlier this week, and also don’t forget to vote on Tuesday April 13th. More info at http://votesantaclarita.com


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