It didn't sell very well, but the band's debut set off the rise of the new black nationalism of the late 1980s.
With their sophomore effort, Public Enemy was getting more mainstream success with singles like "Don't Believe the Hype."
If "Fight the Power" doesn't do it for you on this successful Spike Lee soundtrack, check out the forgotten but great New Jack Swing band Guy.
Controversy surrounded the band at the time of their third album's release.