Krs-One

Sublime's song "Krs-One" is a tribute to the influential hip-hop artist KRS-One, known for his profound impact on the genre and his role as an educator through music. The lyrics reflect a sense of gratitude and admiration for KRS-One's ability to impart knowledge and wisdom, which the band members feel they did not receive through traditional education. The mention of topics like "hamburgers or steak," "Elijah Muhammed," and "the welfare state" highlights the gaps in the conventional school curriculum, suggesting that important social and historical issues were overlooked.

The repetition of the phrase "And I know because of KRS-One" emphasizes the artist's role in enlightening the listeners. KRS-One, whose real name is Lawrence Parker, is renowned for his socially conscious lyrics and his efforts to elevate hip-hop as a platform for education and social change. Sublime acknowledges this by stating that KRS-One is "droppin' science" and "droppin' history," indicating that his music is not just entertainment but a source of valuable information and insight.

The song also touches on the commercialization of music, with the line "we don't want to pay money fee to hear the same old sounds." This suggests a desire for authenticity and innovation in the music industry, qualities that KRS-One embodies. By taking "hip-hop to a higher ground," KRS-One is portrayed as a pioneer who challenges the status quo and inspires others to think critically and creatively. Sublime's homage to KRS-One underscores the importance of artists who use their platform to educate and provoke thought, making a lasting impact on their audience.