Armed with commanding voices, shocking perspectives and some of the best hip-hop nuggets ever heard in the late ’80s, Public Enemy stormed the nation with songs like “Don’t Believe the Hype” and “Fight the Power.” At the helm of the group was Chuck D, a young man wise well beyond his years and when he spoke – folks listened. When the group released its debut album in 1987, Chuck D said: “Rap music is black America’s CNN.” Public Enemy has disbanded, but Chuck D strives to continue his activism. Today he’s an author (“Fight the Power: Chuck D on Rap, Race and Reality”), a regular on the speakers’ circuit and a special correspondent for Fox News. At 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Chuck D will speak at Harper College on his book and the impact of rap music. Admission: $7. Building J Theatre, 1200 W. Algonquin Rd., Palatine. 847-925-6100. And at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 27, Chuck D comes back to Chicago, this time with former group member Professor Griff. They’ll perform during the Musicality of Poetry Festival at the Guild Complex, 2936 N. Southport Ave. Tickets: $5-$15. 773-296-1108.
