It was announced this morning that KRS-One [click to read] has launched an exclusive publishing imprint under powerHouse Books, called I Am Hip Hop. The imprint will be overseen by the Hip Hop icon, and intends to publish works in a variety of sub-genres, including philosophy, photography and novels. All the releases will be hand-picked by KRS-One.

"The I Am Hip Hop imprint will serve as a home for real and true expressions of Hip Hop. I commend powerHouse for being brave enough to stand up for real culture," said KRS. Craig Cohen, President and Executive Publisher of powerHouse added, "Working with KRS-One offers a rare opportunity and privilege to play a part in history in the making. This founding father of Hip Hop was behind the legendary Boogie Down Productions and is arguably more creative in 2008 than ever before.”

The Gospel of Hip Hop, the first book from the I Am Hip Hop imprint set for release in Spring 2009, is the philosophical masterwork KRS-One. Set in the format of the Christian Bible, this 600+ page opus is a manual to life for members of Hip Hop Kulture that combines classic philosophy with religious faith and practical knowledge for a fascinating, in-depth exploration of Hip Hop as a life-path.