The Untouchable DJ Drastic Speaks On Keith “Guru” Elam’s Passing | Official Statement From The Elam Family | Keith “Guru” Elam, R.I.P. 1962 – 2010
On April 19, 2010, Hip Hop lost one of its greatest talents in Keith Elam A.K.A. Guru.
The Untouchable DJ Drastic released the following statement regarding the passing of Keith “Guru” Elam
“Growing up, I doubt there is any Hip Hop enthusiast, fan, and/or professional that does not respect this man and/or his contributions to our culture. Guru was a man worthy of the culture as the culture was worthy of the man.
It is unfortunate that I even have to comment on this as Guru has always been open to relationships & throughout his final days, was a stand-up individual. I am deeply saddened by Keith’s passing & want to remind everyone that Guru shall live on through all of us (The DJs) via his music.
In regards to his final letter, etc. I find it unfortunate that so much more negativity has developed from an already incredibly negative situation. For the most part, I observe individuals supporting Gang Starr. Guru was more than Gang Starr even though he was Gang Starr from day one. Despite the classic catalog of music that was released by the group over the years, Guru was a man and an eclectic artist within his own right.
We’re in a business where relationships come & go as fast as day & night. On one side of the fence, a legacy can be structured & on the other side of the fence, neglected to where the same legacy can desist indefinitely. For undisclosed reasons, Guru was passionate about the indefinite split between him & DJ Premier. Guru once said that there will never be another Gang Starr album. Guru felt that chapter of his legacy was closed, at least for a moment in time.
In my eyes, no artist can compare to Guru in his own right. I cannot say that there is any era of Guru’s career that I cannot absorb, enjoy, and/or support eternally. My most sincere condolences are with all of those who loved Guru in addition to his contributions to his art-form and culture, Hip Hop.
I thank you for all that you’ve done for me personally. You are truly an icon and legend in your own right. You will be missed & soar, “Above The Clouds.” Keith “Guru” Elam, R.I.P. 1962 – 2010″
-Daniel M. Johnson | The Untouchable DJ Drastic
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This is the official statement from The Elam Family regarding the passing of Keith “Guru” Elam
“The Elam family wishes to thank the fans of our son, brother, father, uncle, nephew, & cousin Keith A.K.A. Guru for the outpouring of love, concern, & support.
Our hearts are broken by the loss of someone we loved so much. Guru was devoted to his young son, who will most keenly feel his absence.
Guru suffered from multiple myeloma for over a year. Accrued complications from this illness led to respiratory failure & cardiac arrest. As a result, Guru was in a coma from mid-February until his death & never regained consciousness. Early on the morning of April 19th, he became hypertensive due to low blood pressure. He again went into cardiac arrest & slipped away from us.
Guru died far too young but he was, and we are, proud of all his many legendary musical contributions.
The family is not aware of any foundations established by Guru We know & understand that countless fans want to express their condolences & love &, to that end, we are planning a memorial event in the near future that will be all-inclusive. Please look for further details from the family as they become available.”
-The Elam Family
DJ Drastic® 