Scott "La Rock" of BDP: Shot 39 years ago in the Bronx
Today marks 39 years since Scott La Rock, co-founder and DJ of Boogie Down Productions, was shot in the Bronx on August 27, 1987, while trying to break up a fight. His death marked a turning point for BDP and KRS-One, who have since focused on raising awareness and combating violence in hip-hop. Scott La Rock remains a symbol of the positive and community-oriented side of hip-hop, and his legacy lives on in the culture.
Today marks 39 years since the hip-hop world lost one of its pioneers. Scott Sterling, better known as DJ Scott La Rock of Boogie Down Productions, was shot and killed in the Bronx on August 27, 1987. He was 25 years old.
Scott La Rock was more than just a DJ. He co-founded BDP with KRS-One. The crew was at the forefront of conscious rap and laid the foundation for what would later be called the golden era of hip-hop. Their 1987 debut album, *Criminal Minded*, is a classic that continues to have an impact today.
The shooting took place in the South Bronx, where Scott La Rock was trying to defuse an argument. He was there to mediate, not to fight. A bullet put an end to that. The violence that surrounded hip-hop at the time claimed yet another life. Too soon, too senseless.
After his death, BDP changed course. KRS-One dedicated himself fully to raising awareness and promoting education. Albums like *By All Means Necessary* and *Ghetto Music: The Blueprint of Hip Hop* became manifestos against violence. The message was clear: stop the violence. Scott La Rock’s legacy became a movement.
Scott La Rock’s death affected the entire scene. He wasn’t a gangster or a street fighter. He was a social worker—someone who wanted to help young people. His death highlighted the harsh reality of life on the streets, even for those who tried to rise above it.
Boogie Down Productions continued to exist, but without Scott La Rock, it was never the same again. KRS-One carried on the torch, but the pain remained palpable. In interviews, he often spoke about his friend and mentor—the man who helped him find his voice.
39 years later, Scott La Rock remains a symbol—of what hip-hop can be: creative, community-oriented, authentic—and of what it loses when violence takes over. His music lives on, and so does his message.
Rest in power, Scott La Rock. The community won't forget you.
