A Quick 12 Min. History of Gangster Rap Music: From Then To Now

Summary

The video provides a concise history of gangsta rap, tracing its origins from Schoolly D in Philadelphia to its mainstream success through Ice-T and N.W.A. It highlights the genre's evolution throughout the 1990s with influential figures like Tupac Shakur and Ice Cube, as well as the rise of Southern rap. The narrative addresses the cultural impact and controversies surrounding gangsta rap, illustrating how it reflects the struggles and realities of street life. The video concludes by recognizing the ongoing debate about the genre's effects on communities and its transformation over the years.

Takeaways

• 😀 Schoolly D is recognized as the progenitor of gangsta rap, with his 1985 track 'PSK' influencing many artists.
• 😀 Ice-T emerged in 1986, releasing '6 in the Morning' and later causing controversy with 'Cop Killer.'
• 😀 N.W.A revolutionized gangsta rap with their groundbreaking album 'Straight Outta Compton' in 1988.
• 😀 The D.O.C. contributed significantly to N.W.A's success and released the acclaimed album 'No One Can Do It Better' in 1989.
• 😀 Kool G Rap was a major East Coast figure who influenced artists like Notorious B.I.G. and Jay-Z with his storytelling skills.
• 😀 The 1990s saw gangsta rap boom with artists like Ice Cube, Too Short, and the Ghetto Boys gaining mainstream popularity.
• 😀 Death Row Records, founded by Suge Knight, became a powerhouse in the 90s, launching stars like Snoop Dogg.
• 😀 Tupac Shakur and Notorious B.I.G. emerged as iconic figures in the 90s, blending gangsta rap with deeper narratives.
• 😀 Master P's No Limit Records in the late 90s revolutionized the financial aspects of the rap industry.
• 😀 Contemporary gangsta rap includes artists like Bobby Shmurda and Tekashi 6ix9ine, showcasing evolving themes and styles.

Q & A

Who is credited as the progenitor of gangsta rap?

Schoolly D from Philadelphia is credited as the progenitor of gangsta rap, with his track 'PSK' often recognized as a pivotal influence.

What major contribution did Ice-T make to gangsta rap?

Ice-T significantly contributed to gangsta rap with his 1986 track '6 in the Morning,' which helped to define the genre's themes and styles.

How did N.W.A impact the perception of gangsta rap?

N.W.A brought gangsta rap to a global audience, providing a raw portrayal of life in Los Angeles, which helped to legitimize the genre within mainstream music.

What was the response from politicians regarding gangsta rap in the early '90s?

In the early '90s, politicians and the media criticized gangsta rap, often associating it with violence and societal issues, leading to increased scrutiny of the genre.

Which artist is mentioned as having revolutionized the way rappers get paid?

Master P is mentioned as having revolutionized the way rappers get paid by creating a blueprint that minimized the role of major labels in artists' earnings.

What role did the D.O.C. play in the gangsta rap movement?

The D.O.C. was a significant figure in the gangsta rap movement, co-writing for N.W.A. and releasing his debut album 'No One Can Do It Better,' which was well received despite a serious car accident that changed his voice.

How did Tupac and Nas influence the direction of gangsta rap?

Tupac and Nas began to cover a broader range of themes in their music, moving beyond just violent narratives to include social issues and personal struggles.

What is the significance of the Geto Boys' album 'We Can't Be Stopped'?

The Geto Boys' album 'We Can't Be Stopped' gained notoriety for its graphic cover and became a commercial success, partly due to the publicity from an incident involving member Bushwick Bill.

What contemporary trends are noted in the evolution of gangsta rap?

Contemporary trends in gangsta rap include the rise of auto-tune and the emergence of drill music, with artists today often blending traditional gangsta rap themes with new musical styles.

What does the video suggest about the future of gangsta rap?

The video suggests that while gangsta rap has evolved and transformed over the years, it remains alive and influential, with new artists continuing to carry the genre's legacy.