Born and ‘raised’ in the ghettos of Los Angeles, gangsta rap emerged in the late 80s with the first albums from Ice T, NWA and Eazy E. If the lyrics were the reflection of afro-American economic and social life style (drugs, unemployment, police violence...), gangster life was also largely described. The original tracks sampled and selected for breaks and hooks by west coast hip hop producers were essentially ‘70s soul music. And it’s the opportunity to groove to Smokey Robinson, Charles Wright, James Brown or Roy Ayers among others. The loops in the Barry White and Edwin Starr introductions remain eternal, while the Donny Hathaway song will always be associated to a Dr Dre classic. While Average White Band or Ohio Players bring a funky touch, Eddie Kendricks takes us on a smooth ride with his sweet and mellow soul. Finally, a special tribute to Clarence Reid (who passed away recently) whose drum kick was used in a famous posse cut on “The Chronic” album by Dr Dre.
