As Gang Starr’s iconic album “Hard to Earn” celebrates its 30th anniversary, DJ Premier took to Instagram to share the behind-the-scenes story of how the album got its name. Premier, the veteran producer of the duo, revealed that the title was inspired by a conversation with Guru, the late rhymer and other member of Gang Starr.
In his Instagram post, Premier reminisced about how Guru approached him to name the LP, highlighting Guru’s knack for coming up with impressive titles. However, it was during a conversation about the challenges of the music industry that the album’s title struck a chord. “Being in this music business is HARD TO EARN,” Premier recalled saying, to which Guru responded, “THAT’S IT! You just named the album!“
Released on March 8, 1994, “Hard to Earn” marked Gang Starr’s fourth studio album and continues to be revered by fans worldwide. Premier explained that the album represented a pivotal moment in his sound, showcasing his versatility beyond the jazz samples that had previously defined Gang Starr’s style.
In addition to acknowledging the album’s impact on his career, Premier expressed gratitude to those who contributed to its success, including photographer Danny Hastings and engineer Eddie Sancho. He also thanked rapper Jeru the Damaja for his collaboration on the track “Speak Ya Clout.”
Of course, Premier took a moment to honor his late partner in Gang Starr, Keith “Guru” Elam, who passed away in 2010. “Guru you’re always missed brother,” Premier wrote, vowing to preserve Guru’s legacy and hard work.
In a separate tribute, Premier recently commemorated the 50th birthday of legendary producer James “J Dilla” Yancey, joining a chorus of hip-hop luminaries in celebrating Dilla’s enduring influence on the genre. Premier, along with artists like Common, Busta Rhymes, and Pete Rock, paid homage to Dilla’s genius and legacy, emphasizing his unmatched talent and impact on the hip-hop community.
As the hip-hop world reflects on the anniversaries of landmark albums and the legacies of influential figures like Guru and J Dilla, DJ Premier’s insights offer a glimpse into the creative process and camaraderie that defined Gang Starr’s legacy in rap history.