Eazy-E, born Eric Lynn Wright on September 7, 1964, was a pivotal figure in the rise of gangsta rap and a key founder of the rap group N.W.A, which prominently included other hip-hop legends like Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, and MC Ren. His music was a raw reflection of life on the streets, often embodying the gritty and explicit realities of Compton, California. Eazy-E’s distinct delivery and unapologetic lyrics helped cement his reputation as the "Godfather of Gangsta Rap." With Ruthless Records, the label he co-founded in 1986, Eazy-E played a vital role in the commercial and artistic success of hip-hop during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Eazy-E's 1988 solo album "Eazy-Duz-It" was a monumental success, further cementing his place in hip-hop history. He continued to impact the rap scene with subsequent releases such as the fiery EP "It's On (Dr. Dre) 187um Killa," which was a direct response to his feud with former colleague Dr. Dre. His final full-length album, "Str8 off Tha Streetz of Muthaphukkin Compton," was released posthumously in 1995 following his untimely death on March 26, 1995, due to complications from AIDS. Despite his career's abrupt end, Eazy-E's influence on rap culture and his role in shaping the sound of West Coast hip-hop endures to this day.

Genres

G Funk

Gangster Rap

Hip Hop

Rap

West Coast Rap

Related Artists

Snoop Dogg

Dr. Dre

Ice Cube

Warren G

The D.O.C.

MC Ren

Cypress Hill

Too $hort

MC Eiht

DJ Quik

Latest Release

Str8 off Tha Streetz of Muthaphukkin Compton

Eazy-E

Album - 14 Tracks - Released January 30, 1996