Meaning of "Outta Here" by KRS-One

The lyrics of "Outta Here" offer a glimpse into KRS-One's personal and professional journey in the world of hip-hop. The first verse takes us back to the early days of his love for rap, where he would listen to radio shows and go to the park to hear rap jams. He reflects on the disappointment he felt when the police shut down these gatherings but remained in love with the microphone, a sentiment that stayed with him even as he left home and faced the responsibilities of adulthood.

In the second verse, KRS-One shares his experiences of living on the streets and being part of a group home. He dreamt of becoming as famous as the rap group Whodini and found solace in listening to RUN DMC. He then introduces DJ Scott La Rock as his helper, someone who shared his love for hip-hop and would eventually become his collaborator in BDP (Boogie Down Productions). As KRS-One navigates the shelter system, he takes pride in lyrically taking down other rappers in battles, but his vision remains focused on the numerous rap groups who fell off, emphasizing the importance of longevity and artistic growth.

The third verse delves into the early days of BDP's career, highlighting their battles with rival crews and the criticism they faced. KRS-One mentions his friendship with Ced Gee, the gold purchases made with Eric B (known for his work with Eric B. & Rakim), and their album "Criminal Minded." The lyrics touch on the rapid evolution of hip-hop and the shift in sound that occurred during this time. KRS-One acknowledges the influence of Public Enemy's albums and the rise of conscious rap. However, he ends the song with a reflection on how he still sees rap groups falling down, implying that despite the changes in the industry, BDP remains determined to stay true to their old school roots.

The message of "Outta Here" is one of resilience and dedication to the art of hip-hop. KRS-One emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and preserving the essence of the genre, even in the face of challenges and changing trends. The lyrics also highlight the impact of personal relationships and the loss of DJ Scott La Rock, showing how these experiences have shaped KRS-One's musical journey.