Dr. Dre, born Andre Romelle Young on February 18, 1965, in Compton, California, is a renowned American rapper, record producer, and entrepreneur. He has significantly shaped the hip-hop landscape, co-founding the seminal group N.W.A., pioneering the G-funk sound, and launching the careers of numerous iconic artists. His influence extends beyond music into business, notably through his co-founding of Beats by Dre, a line of headphones and audio products that revolutionized the industry.
Dr. Dre Career Highlights
1984 World Class Wreckin' Cru
Dr. Dre began his career as a member of the World Class Wreckin' Cru, a DJ and electro-hop group that gained popularity in the Los Angeles music scene with hits like "Surgery."
1986 Formation of N.W.A.
Dr. Dre co-founded NWA (Niggaz Wit Attitudes) with Eazy-E, Ice Cube, DJ Yella, and MC Ren. The group’s aggressive lyrics and revolutionary approach to hip-hop challenged the status quo, addressing social and political issues.
1988 "Straight Outta Compton"
N.W.A. released their groundbreaking album "Straight Outta Compton," which featured hits like "Fuck tha Police" and "Gangsta Gangsta." The album's raw portrayal of urban life and its confrontational stance on authority garnered widespread attention and controversy.
1991 Departure from N.W.A.
After a fallout with Eazy-E and financial disputes with N.W.A.’s manager, Jerry Heller, Dr. Dre left the group and co-founded Death Row Records with Suge Knight.
1992 "The Chronic"
Dr. Dre released his debut solo album, "The Chronic," which introduced the world to the G-funk sound, characterized by heavy bass and synth-driven melodies.
1996 Departure from Death Row Records
Due to increasing violence and legal troubles surrounding Death Row Records, Dr. Dre left the label and founded Aftermath Entertainment.
1999 "2001"
Dr. Dre released his second solo album, "2001," which included hits like "Still D.R.E.," "Forgot About Dre," and "The Next Episode." The album showcased Dre's evolution as a producer and solidified his status as a hip-hop legend.
2008 Launch of Beats by Dre
Dr. Dre co-founded Beats Electronics with Jimmy Iovine. The brand's high-quality headphones became a cultural phenomenon, and in 2014, Apple acquired Beats for $3 billion.
Dr. Dre Bands
- World Class Wreckin' Cru
- N.W.A.
Dr. Dre Grammy Awards
Dr. Dre has won six Grammy Awards, including
1994 Best Rap Solo Performance ("Let Me Ride")
2001 Producer of the Year, Non-Classical
2001 Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group ("Forgot About Dre" with Eminem)
2010 Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group ("Crack a Bottle" with Eminem and 50 Cent)
2011 Best Rap Album (as producer of Eminem’s "Recovery")
2021 Lifetime Achievement Award
Most Famous Dr. Dre Songs
1. "Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang"
- From "The Chronic,"
2. "Still D.R.E."
- From "2001," featuring Snoop Dogg,
3. "Forgot About Dre"
- Also from "2001," in collaboration with Eminem
Quotes
I've always tried to maintain that mentality of just being a fan of music, not wanting to be a fan of myself."
I just want to get my music out and make sure that it’s heard in the right way."
Dr. Dre Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Legal Issues and Feuds: Dr. Dre's career has been marked by legal issues, including disputes with former bandmates and accusations of violence. Notably, his fallout with Eazy-E and Death Row Records was highly publicized.
- Influence on Hip-Hop: Dr. Dre is credited with launching the careers of several major artists, including Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and 50 Cent, making him one of the most influential figures in hip-hop.
- Health Issues: In January 2021, Dr. Dre suffered a brain aneurysm and was hospitalized, prompting an outpouring of support from fans and fellow musicians. He has since recovered and returned to work.
Dr Dre ratings
Dr Dre Albums
See also Dr Dre Discography