I Manifest/Positivity
In 1988, the pieces of Gang Starr's full length album were released to the public. As early as 1987, singles such as "The Lesson" and the 45 King-produced "Bust A Move Boy" and "Believe Dat" were released to the public on Wild Pitch Records. 1988's "Movin' On," "Gusto" and "Knowledge" (also produced by 45 King) would move us closer to what would become the early Gang Starr sound, but it was '89's "Positivity" and "Words I Manifest" that would give us a visual of DJ Premier and The Guru Keithy E via videos, and create the long lasting template for their sound.
"Positivity," with its slowed down loop of Brass Construction's "Changin" and Guru's monotone flow provided a glimpse into the future sound of one of Hip-Hop's greatest duos. "Positivity" also introduce Premier's style of cutting vocal snippets of records that matched the title and subject matter of Guru's rhymes. This technique became a Preemo mainstay, and is still used in the majority of his productions.
"Words I Manifest" further cemented Guru and Premier as ones to watch. Premier's precise cuts and scratches and Guru's jewels of wisdom made "Manifest" a staple on mix shows. The video gained popularity on the newly formed Yo! MTV Raps, Video Music Box and other outlets that aired Hip-Hop videos. These perfectly timed and promoted singles built anticipation for a full Gang Starr release.
