Back in the Days documents the emerging Hip Hop scene from 1980-1989&;before it became what is today&;s multi-million-dollar multinational industry. Back in the days, gangs would battle not with guns, but by breakdancing. Back in the days, the streets&;not corporate planning&;set the standards for style. Back in the days, Jamel Shabazz was on the scene, photographing everyday people hangin&; in Harlem, kickin&; it in Queens, and cold chillin&; in Brooklyn.

Street styling with an attitude not seen in fashion for another twenty years to come, Shabazz&;s subjects strike poses that put supermodels to shame&;showing off Kangol caps and Gazelle glasses, shell-top Adidas and suede Pumas with fat laces, shearling coats and leather jackets, gold rope chains, door-knocker earrings, name belts, boom boxes, and other designer finery. For anyone who wants to know what &;keepin&; it real&; means, Back in the Days is the book of your dreams.