KRS-One released the 1987 album Criminal Minded with Boogie Down Productions.
The album was the debut studio release by Boogie Down Productions, the group led by KRS-One and producer Scott La Rock. Its hard-edged production, battle-oriented lyrics, and direct Bronx perspective helped establish a template for hardcore rap.
Criminal Minded included tracks such as “South Bronx,” “The Bridge Is Over,” and “9mm Goes Bang.” Its release followed the Bridge Wars, a rivalry involving Queensbridge artists and Boogie Down Productions over claims about hip hop’s origins.
The title is sometimes treated as a KRS-One solo album, but it is officially a Boogie Down Productions release. KRS-One was the group’s principal rapper, while Scott La Rock was central to its production and early identity.