BIOGRAPHY (via allmusic.com):
Part of the growing contingent of Islamic-oriented message rappers, Poor Righteous Teachers formed in Trenton, NJ, when teenage friends
Culture Freedom and
Wise Intelligent (songwriting credits are listed as
S. Phillips and
T. Grimes) decided to form a more positive rap group as an alternative to the gangsta style (which they vehemently defend). Joined by DJ and producer
Father Shaheed, the group recorded two albums (1990's
Holy Intellect and 1991's
Pure Poverty) stressing their religious beliefs and philosophy; in spite of sometimes neglecting their music for their message, the albums sold respectably well. 1993's
Black Business proved to be their most musically satisfying outing, drawing praise for
Wise's ability to use the style and intonation of a reggae/dancehall toaster; however, it was also criticized for its liberal sprinkling of homophobia.
New World Order followed in 1996.
ALBUM:
POOR RIGHTEOUS TEACHERS - HOLLY INTELLECT - 1990 01 - Can I Start This (5:18)
02 - Rock Dis Funky Joint (5:12)
03 - Strictly Ghetto (3:27)
04 - Holy Intellect (4:21)
05 - Shakiyla (4:02)
06 - Time To Say Peace (5:15)
07 - Style Dropped/Lessons Taught (4:54)
08 - Speaking Upon A Blackman (3:21)
09 - So Many Teachers (4:43)
10 - Word From The Wise (5:02)
11 - Butt Naked Booty Blues (4:29)
12 - Poor Righteous Teachers (5:15)
CORNER GRAB: DOWNLOAD