What Makes Public Enemy #1?

Public Enemy is a Hip-Hop group that lived to challenge the prevailing systems that we operate by, and did so through Chuck D’s unwavering lyrical aggression, The Bomb Squad’s booming production, and with a militant promotion. The group took inspiration from many famous Civil Rights figures, such as the Black Panther Party and Malcolm X. They used the lessons taught by these important figures of the past and applied them to a new generation, especially the premise and importance of free speech. Public Enemy’s 1989 single “Fight the Power” uses hard-hitting lyrics, a simple but demanding hook, and abrasive and noisy production in order to encapsulate the way that African Americans suffering from the crack epidemic of the mid 80’s and the censorship of free speech of the 1980’s as a whole were feeling, and to incite a resistance within the Black community.

Public Enemy were a product of the Civil Rights movement and of other significant events that happened afterwards, such as the rise of crack cocaine and the presidency of Ronald Reagan. They used their free speech to challenge figures that were seen as off limits, such as actor John Wayne and Elvis Presley. They embraced the controversy and ruffled many feathers in their prime. Despite occasional negative response, the group stayed themselves and didn't compromise their own values for more fame or more money. Public Enemy was honest throughout their career, which is what drew them so much critical acclaim.