It is widely regarded as Gang Starr's magnum opus, and one of the greatest hip hop albums of all time.

[citation needed] Moment of Truth marked Gang Starr's fifth studio album, released in 1998 following a four-year hiatus.

The weight of this potential outcome influenced much of the album's thematic direction, particularly in tracks such as “Moment of Truth,” which reflected the group's real-life struggles.

[15] Tension over Guru's drinking habits also briefly led to DJ Premier stepping away from the group during the album's production.

[20][21][22] The title track also appeared in the soundtrack of the 2001 video game Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX 2 as well as an episode during the third season of the television show Mr.