Lawrence Krisna Parker (born August 20, 1965), known as KRS-One, is an American hip hop MC of mixed Nigerian and Jamaican descent. Over his career he has been known by several pseudonyms, including Kris Parker, The Blastmaster and The Teacha. KRS-One is a significant figure in the hip hop community and is often referenced in works by other hip hop artists and critics as being the "essence" of an MC and among the greatest rappers to hold the mic