Happy Birthday, Kool Keith

Today is Keith Matthew Thornton’s birthday. No one seems sure about how he old is (Keith is famously mysterious.) Wikipedia says he’s 48. But who knows? Today might be his 50th! In any case, he is one of rap’s true originals, and from his work with the Ultramagnetic MCs to Dr. Octagon to his solo records, has amassed a catalogue to rank with the all-time greats. Surely he’s somewhere nice, celebrating in style — and will probably be in a mask and cape and interesting underwear before the day is through.