MC Guru (Keith Elam, 43) passed away on April 19 after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was best known as part of the jazz rap/hip-hop duo Gang Starr. Along with DJ Premier, Gang Starr helped establish a sound that was both fresh yet still paid tribute to the roots of jazz music. Guru's lyrics were filled with social commentary and were generally empowering with a positive message. Gang Starr released six studio albums in their career (1985-2003). Guru released eight solo/collaborative albums beginning with "Jazzmatazz, Vol. 1" (1993), and ending with "Guru 8.0: Lost and Found" (2009). Guru is survived by his son, KC and the charitable organization he helped create called EACH ONE COUNTS. The Each One Counts foundation raises funds and provides grants to help children (and their families) who are dying from a life threatening disease.
