Rest In Peace Guru

At the age of 43, Keith Elam, better known as Guru has died after a struggle with cancer. Guru was one half of the influential hip-hop group Gangstarr, along side the renowned DJ Premier. The duo put out six studio albums between 1989 and 2003. Gangstarr developed a more flexible sound, blending funk and jazz with heavy hip-hop beats and fresh flowing lyrics.
Guru had released his first solo album in 1993, Jazzmatazz vol.1, the first of four incredible parts. The album was one of the first hip-hop albums to use a full jazz band in the production.
In 2005 an interview with Guru confirmed rumors that Gangstarr was over. Guru and Premier had split under seemingly bitter circumstances.

Guru passed away yesterday morning (19th April) and was said to have been around his family and his closest friends. MC and friend Solar released this statement written by Guru. The letter highlights his illness and his life. The letter goes on to underline the issues with DJ Premier and to note that Solar knows the real reason for Ganstarr's separation.

"I, Guru, am writing this letter to my fans, friends and loved ones around the world. I have had a long battle with cancer and have succumbed to the disease. I have suffered with this illness for over a year. I have exhausted all medical options. I have a non-profit organization called Each One Counts dedicated to carrying on my charitable work on behalf of abused and disadvantaged children from around the world and also to educate and research a cure for this terrible disease that took my life. I write this with tears in my eyes, not of sorrow but of joy for what a wonderful life I have enjoyed and how many great people I have had the pleasure of meeting.
I do not wish my ex-DJ to have anything to do with my name likeness, events tributes etc. connected in anyway to my situation including any use of my name or circumstance for any reason and I have instructed my lawyers to enforce this. I had nothing to do with him in life for over 7 years and want nothing to do with him in death. Solar has my life story and is well informed on my family situation, as well as the real reason for separating from my ex-DJ. As the sole founder of GangStarr, I am very proud of what GangStarr has meant to the music world and fans."

Rest In Peace Guru. You leave a true legacy behind you.