N.W.A (Niggaz Wit Attitudes) was an American hip-hop group from Compton, California, that became one of the most influential and controversial acts in the history of rap music. Formed in 1987, the group is often credited with helping to establish the genre of gangsta rap, characterized by its explicit lyrics and depiction of the harsh realities of urban life. N.W.A's unflinching portrayal of issues such as police brutality and racial inequality resonated with many and sparked widespread debate and controversy.
N.W.A Career Highlights
1987
N.W.A was formed by Eazy-E (Eric Wright), who enlisted Dr. Dre (Andre Young), Ice Cube (O'Shea Jackson), DJ Yella (Antoine Carraby), MC Ren (Lorenzo Patterson), and Arabian Prince (Kim Renard Nazel).
1988
Released their groundbreaking debut studio album, "Straight Outta Compton”. The album included hits like "Gangsta Gangsta” and "Fuck tha Police” which drew significant controversy and brought national attention to the group.
1989
The FBI sent a letter to N.W.A's record label, Ruthless Records, condemning the song "Fuck tha Police” which further heightened their notoriety.
Arabian Prince left the group before the release of their debut album.
1991
Released their second album, "Niggaz4Life" (also known as "Efil4zaggin"), which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. This album marked a shift towards more hardcore and explicit content.
Disbandment - Internal tensions and financial disputes led to the group disbanding. Dr. Dre and Ice Cube embarked on highly successful solo careers.
1995
Eazy-E died from complications related to AIDS, marking the end of any potential reunions of the original lineup.
2015
The biographical film "Straight Outta Compton” chronicling the rise and impact of N.W.A, was released and received critical acclaim.
N.W.A Members
Eazy-E (Eric Wright) - Founder and rapper (1987-1991)
Dr. Dre (Andre Young) - Producer and rapper (1987-1991)
Ice Cube (O'Shea Jackson) - Rapper and songwriter (1987-1989)
DJ Yella (Antoine Carraby) - DJ and producer (1987-1991)
MC Ren (Lorenzo Patterson) - Rapper (1988-1991)
Arabian Prince (Kim Renard Nazel) - DJ and rapper (1987-1988)
N.W.A Awards
Total Wins - None. Despite their profound impact on hip-hop and music culture, N.W.A never won a Grammy Award, a disgrace.
Recognition - The group's influence was later recognized with their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.
3 Most Famous N.W.A Songs
1. "Straight Outta Compton" (1988)
- The title track from their debut album, it is one of the most iconic and influential songs in hip-hop history, capturing the essence of life in Compton.
2. "Fuck tha Police" (1988)
- This controversial track directly addressed police brutality and racial profiling, leading to significant media attention and criticism from law enforcement agencies.
3. "Express Yourself" (1988)
- A more positive and politically charged song that emphasized the importance of free expression, sampling Charles Wright & the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band.
Quotes
Ice Cube…
Speak a little truth and people lose their minds.
Eazy-E…
We don't rap, we rock 'n' roll.
N.W.A Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- N.W.A received a warning letter from the FBI due to the song "Fuck tha Police” which criticized law enforcement. This incident elevated their profile and underscored their contentious relationship with authorities.
- The group experienced significant internal conflicts, particularly between Ice Cube and the rest of the group over financial disputes. Ice Cube left the group in 1989 and pursued a successful solo career, including diss tracks aimed at his former bandmates.
- Eazy-E's sudden death in 1995 from AIDS-related complications was a major shock to the hip-hop community and highlighted the devastating impact of the disease.
- N.W.A was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016, a testament to their lasting influence on music and culture.
NWA ratings
NWA Albums
See also NWA Discography