Monday, November 30, 2020

Xzibit Joins Problem For His “Morning Walks” Series

Problem has been doing a YouTube series called “Morning Walks where he interviews entertainers and athletes while taking a stroll around his block. For this episode he interviews Xzibit as they talk about life and careers. Here is Part 1 as Part 2 will be dropping soon.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/xzibit-joins-problem-for-his-morning-walks-series/

Diamonique Lets Her Alter Ego “Ms. Sancha” Loose With “Baddest Bitch In The Neighborhood”

Diamonique is a dope ass female emceee, one that doesn’t get enough props. But this isn’t Domonique the fly emcee, this is Ms. Sancha and she is out to take your woman! Check out this new video that has lots of ass and Sancha even calls out Doja Cat for a freaky request – oh boy! Shout out to LowProfile Records.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/diamonique-lets-her-alter-ego-ms-sancha-loose-with-baddest-bitch-in-the-neighborhood/

New Talent Spotlight: Yung Xavi

We recently hooked up with rising new talent Yung Xavi who is making some noise with his new song “Shawty Bumpin” that was recently featured on this site. The Palm Springs native talks to us about his style and influences and what’s up next for him. Watch this little interview and learn more about this dope new artist.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/new-talent-spotlight-yung-xavi/

New Heat! Compton AV: “Where U Been”

Compton AV had a banger several years back with “Run Me My Money” and now he is back with this new hard track “Where U Been”.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/video/2020/11/new-heat-compton-av-where-u-been/

Stix Releases New Album: For Los Angeles

Watts rapper Stix who was recently featured here on our site, has just released a new project called “For Los Angeles”. Stix made headlines with his Los Angeles Rams theme “It Takes All Of Us” song and video and with his community work through his ThinkWatts charity program. This album “For Los Angeles” is aimed at the soccer community and the Los Angeles Football Club and can be streamed on Spotify and all streaming platforms.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/stix-releases-new-album-for-los-angeles/

Wednesday, November 25, 2020

Trailer For New MC Breed Documentary Film “Breed & Bootleg: Legacy of Flint Rap” Released

Twelve years ago, on November 22, 2008, Flint, Michigan, native MC Breed died of kidney failure, leaving behind a legacy as a prominent breakout Midwest hip-hop artist who helped put his hometown on the map.

Born Eric Tyrone Breed, the emcee made his introduction to the world in 1991 with the hit single, “Ain’t No Future In Yo Frontin.” Sampling the unforgettable high-pitched synth from Ohio Players’ “Funky Worm,” the single peaked at No. 66 on the Billboard Hot 100. He released his debut album, MC Breed & DFC in the same year through S.D.E.G. Records & Ichiban Records, which went on to sell between 2.5 million to 4 million copies.  During his almost 20-year career, MC Breed would work and collaborate with several of the west coast’s biggest names like 2Pac, Warren G, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, Ant Banks, The D.O.C., Too Short, Kurupt, Yo-Yo, Shock G of Digital Underground, MC Eiht and others.

MC Breed’s music continues to live on as fans and new listeners can find a bulk of his discography on today’s top streaming services. His story also continues to be told in hopes of keeping his legacy alive and thriving. Geri Zeldes, a professor at Michigan State University’s School of Journalism, is releasing the documentary, Breed & Bootleg: Legacy of Flint Rap, which will debut at the Detroit Free Press Film Festival December 2-6 this year.

“What inspired me to really take a look at MC Breed’s life is that he’s a part of rap history with an untold story,” said Zeldes. “It was such an amazing feat to be the first commercial rapper out of a small Midwest town at such a young age. Then he moved to Atlanta, but still really loved Flint, and I love that about him.”

Watch the trailer for the Breed & Bootleg: Legacy of Flint Rap documentary below and stay tuned for more information and updates. https://youtu.be/sZRkrYpXacg

 


source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/trailer-for-new-mc-breed-documentary-film-breed-bootleg-legacy-of-flint-rap-released/

Tuesday, November 24, 2020

From The MTV Vault : Unreleased Behind The Scenes Footage Of Snoop Dogg’s 1996 House Tour

MTV Vault YouTube channel has released rare footage of Snoop Dogg‘s 1996 MTV Cribs episode from 1996, when they stopped by his house to get a tour of the place, shoot hoops, meet family, and get some face time with The Doggfather.

The footage starts off with Snoop shooting some hoops with his son Corde Broadus on the basketball court in the back of the house.

During the house tour given to John Norris, appearances can be seen from DazWarren G, and the late, great Nate Dogg – -who comes in right on cue with a brim on and shooting a left-handed jumper.

Throughout the episode, several references are made to Snoop Dogg’s Doggfather album which came out November 12, 1996 and debuted at number one during it’s first week, selling 479,000 copies.

As the follow-up to 1993’s Doggystyle, Snoop Dogg’s second album was produced and mixed by DJ pooh, along with Daz, SoopaflySam SneedLT Hutton and others. The album featured appearances by Too ShortKuruptLBC CrewCharlie Wilson, and Tray Deee to name a few.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/from-the-mtv-vault-unreleased-behind-the-scenes-footage-of-snoop-doggs-1996-house-tour/

Bishop Lamont Ft.. Jah Drumma & Slay Jones – “Unruly Shit” [Audio]

Bishop Lamont taps Jah Drumma and Slay Jones for his new offering, “Unruly Shit”, produced by Callus.

Taken from his forthcoming album Just Don’t Die, the song can be heard below:



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/bishop-lamont-ft-jah-drumma-slay-jones-unruly-shit-audio/

Monday, November 23, 2020

WCS Exclusive: Myka 9 Talks Freestyle Fellowship, Good Life Cafe, Project Blowed and his time with NWA

Myka 9 is an interesting figure in the rap game but especially in the West Coast rap game. Once known as Microphone Mike, he performed and wrote songs that appeared on the NWA & The Posse album. Then with his partners in the Freestyle Fellowship, a new style of rap was ushered in that influenced acts like Bone Thugs N Harmony and more. He was also a pillar at the infamous Good Life Cafe and later its offspring Project Blowed. He has worked with everyone from Aceyalone to RBX. We talk about it all including his latest project….even as he was eating dinner. Check it out.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/interviews/2020/11/wcs-exclusive-myka-9-talks-freestyle-fellowship-good-life-cafe-project-blowed-and-his-time-with-nwa/

Snoop Dogg Goes Beyond the Bottle in New Augmented Reality Experience for 19 Crimes “Snoop Cali Red”

Following the wildly successful augmented reality (AR) wine label experience for the launch of Snoop Cali Red19 Crimes is proud to announce its newest iteration, “Ask the Doggfather,” once again starring entertainment icon Snoop Dogg. Created by augmented reality studio Tactic, in collaboration with agency Cashmere and award-winning software company 8th Wall, the latest 19 Crimes experience gives users the chance to pose life’s burning questions to the Doggfather himself.

“Ask the Doggfather” marks an evolution of the “Living Wine Labels” AR series, the first experience activated by a wine label using 8th Wall technology — a software that makes it possible to build interactive web-based augmented reality (WebAR) that works on any smartphone without an app. Users simply go to askthedoggfather.com on a mobile device and scan any bottle of Snoop Cali Red. From there, ask a question and Snoop will appear in miniature holographic form to offer wisdom with a touch of his signature swagger.

To bring the experience to life, Snoop was captured on green screen, largely overcoming the restrictions and production constraints in California during the pandemic. On set, Snoop made sure that his dialog was authentic, at times improvising to help give the AR experience some extra flavor. Tactic and their technology partners were invaluable in the process. Tactic chose 8th Wall because their augmented reality development platform was the first to support cylindrical- and conical-shaped image targets that can be activated in a mobile browser. The technology provides a frictionless experience to end users, which is key to attaining the widest reach possible for nearly 3 billion smartphones across both iOS and Android devices.

A picture containing indoor, bottle, table, food Description automatically generated
Snoop Dogg Goes Beyond the Bottle in New Augmented Reality Experience for 19 Crimes’ Snoop Cali Red 

John Wardley, TWE Marketing Vice President, Americas, explains “19 Crimes was the first wine to bring an AR experience to consumers — so it’s appropriate that the brand raises the bar again with ‘Ask the Doggfather.’ This is truly a next level AR experience, which could only come to life through our partnership with Snoop. Instead of a face talking off the bottle, Snoop now jumps right off the bottle and answers any questions his fans would like to ask. It’s a magical experience, and just in time for the holidays.”

“Snoop is overjoyed with the success of his Cali Red Wine and is excited to continue to work in collaboration with Treasury Wine Estates to innovate. The ‘Ask the Doggfather’ AR launch is the next step in this journey and he can’t wait to share this project with his fans and help spread some holiday cheer!” says Nick Adler, Snoop’s Manager.

“Ask the Doggfather” is available now at askthedoggfather.com on all mobile devices, with key visuals available for download here. Additional AR experiences for the full 19 Crimes line are available using the Living Wine Labels application available in the mobile app store. Snoop Cali Red (SRP: $12) is available nationwide and more information is available on the 19 Crimes website, 19crimes.com.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/snoop-dogg-goes-beyond-the-bottle-in-new-augmented-reality-experience-for-19-crimes-snoop-cali-red/

12 Years After His Passing, MC Breed Continues To Inspire His Hometown; New Film “Breed & Bootleg: Legacy of Flint Rap” On The Way

It has been 12 years since Flint, Michigan, native MC Breed died of kidney failure in 2008, leaving a legacy as a prominent breakout Midwest artist who helped put his hometown on the map.

Born Eric Breed, the emcee made his introduction to the world in 1991 with the hit single, “Ain’t No Future In Yo Frontin.” Sampling the unforgettable high-pitched synth from Ohio Players’ “Funky Worm,” the single peaked at No. 66 on the Billboard Hot 100. He released his debut album, MC Breed & DFC, in the same year which went on to sell between 2.5 million to 4 million copies.

Avoiding the one-hit wonder curse, Breed charted the Billboard Hot 100 again with his 1993 single “Gotta Get Mine” featuring Tupac Shakur, and produced by Warren G and Colin Wolfe. Throughout the span of his music career, he released 14 studio albums and made guest appearances on albums from notable acts such as George ClintonToo Short, The D.O.C., Slum Village, and fellow Flint artists The Dayton Family.

MC Breed’s music continues to live on as fans and new listeners can find a bulk of his discography on today’s top streaming services. His story also continues to be told in hopes of keeping his legacy alive and thriving. Geri Zeldes, a professor at Michigan State University’s School of Journalism, is releasing the documentary, Breed & Bootleg: Legacy of Flint Rap, which will debut at the Detroit Free Press Film Festival.

“What inspired me to really take a look at MC Breed’s life is that he’s a part of rap history with an untold story,” said Zeldes. “It was such an amazing feat to be the first commercial rapper out of a small Midwest town at such a young age. Then he moved to Atlanta, but still really loved Flint, and I love that about him.”

Flint recording artist and producer Jon Connor also plays a huge role in helping to preserve Breed’s namesake. His 2011 single “Ain’t No Future,” which sampled Breed’s original debut hit, paid homage to the Flint legend while helping to bridge the gap between the 90s Flint rap scene and the current group of Flint artists.

“While I was at Aftermath, I met D.O.C [of NWA] and told him I was from Flint and the first thing out of his mouth was ‘Eric Breed,’” Connor said. “It’s been many times I’ve met legends and the first thing they say when I mention Flint is MC Breed. He left his mark on the world and on Hip Hop. It’s on us, the artists that came after him, to make sure his name lives on.”

For the new class of Flint rappers like Bfb Da PackmanRio Da Yung OGYN JayLouie Ray, and Jeff Skigh who are currently gaining popularity in their respective careers, Breed’s success still provides a sense of inspiration for the artists after him. “It helped show me that it’s possible to do great things coming from such a small place,” Skigh said.

The spirit of MC Breed and his unique blend of Midwest meets West Coast sound will always be felt in Hip Hop culture, and especially in the city where he was born and raised. Brandon Tramaine Bell, a music aficionado and longtime observer of the Flint music scene, is more than hopeful that Breed’s legacy will keep forging ahead to inspire generations to come.

“When you’re creating, you want to be able to create something that’s going to last a lifetime instead of a season. That’s what Breed did,” Bell said. “It’s a certain pride I get when “Ain’t No Future In Yo Frontin” comes on; it’s undeniable. Everything he put out there embodied Flint, and we needed an artist like that to represent us as a whole.”



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/12-years-after-his-passing-mc-breed-continues-to-inspire-his-hometown-new-film-breed-bootleg-legacy-of-flint-rap-on-the-way/

Sunday, November 22, 2020

Snoop Dogg Interviews The Undertaker

Two icons meet up on IG Live as Snoop Dogg interviewed WWE star The Undertaker a day before his official retirement and 30th anniversary at the Survivor Series pay per view. Snoop and The Undertaker discuss the Taker’s legendary career as well as other fun topics such as cars, women’s wrestling, the Wrestlemania streak and more.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/snoop-dogg-interviews-the-undertaker/

Kirby – “Superpower” Feat. D Smoke

Here is a new one by singer Kirby featuring the super talented D Smoke called “Superpower” off of the album of the same title.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/audio/2020/11/kirby-superpower-feat-d-smoke/

Saturday, November 21, 2020

Myka 9 & Blu – Joy & Pain (Prod. by Profound)

“A-OK All Day Records presents “Joy & Pain”, the new single from Los Angeles emcee Myka 9, featuring fellow LA lyricist Blu. “Joy & Pain” is the lead single from Nine Clouds, Myka’s forthcoming collaboration album with producer Profound, who tragically passed away just after the album’s completion. Aceyalone, Abstract Rude, Eligh & The Grouch of Living Legends, Blueprint, Lily Fangz, Joaquin Daniels and DJ Essentials also appear on the album.”



source https://westcoaststyles.com/audio/2020/11/myka-9-blu-joy-pain-prod-by-profound/

Horseshoe Gang – Blvck Mirror

Kxng Crooked’s posse The Horseshoe Gang has a dope new EP out called Music To Riot To and it’s a testament to the fact that Crooked is not the only great rapper in that camp. Watch this new video “Blvck Mirror” and get some bars.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/video/2020/11/horseshoe-gang-blvck-mirror/

Friday, November 20, 2020

Eternal Is Letting The World Know That He Has Arrived With The Bolen 2 Step

Baldwin Park, California’s native son Eternal brings the heat with his latest single “Bolen 2 Step”  featuring Apache Figueroa. This joint has the laid back, chill at the park, feel good type vibes. With over 11,000 views and counting, Eternal is letting the world know he’s here to stay. You can follow him on Instagram at @eternal274_



source https://westcoaststyles.com/video/2020/11/eternal-is-letting-the-world-know-that-he-has-arrived-with-the-bolen-2-step/

Thursday, November 19, 2020

WCS Exclusive: New Epic Interview With Arabian Prince – Original NWA Member

I have been wanting to do this interview for years! The Arabian Prince is a cornerstone of West Coast hip-hop. Yes, history was kind of re-written with him being left out of the NWA movie story but know without a doubt that he was there with the group from the start and witnessed many of the groups epic moments. Myself and Shad Reed ask him about life before, during, and after being a member of the world’s most dangerous group. We also talk about his music production that includes JJ Fad’s “Supersonic” which still brings him revenue to this day. To top it off, he makes video games – and ones that you have probably played before. Watch this epic interview today and learn some real history about about the infamous group NWA.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/interviews/2020/11/wcs-exclusive-new-epic-interview-with-arabian-prince-original-nwa-member/

Another Unreleased Dr. Dre Track Surfaces “Get It”

ChadKiser.com has released another unreleased Dr. Dre track presumably entitled “Get It”. Somebody’s vaults are opening? I don’t know but I am glad we are hearing some of these songs. Take a listen HERE!



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/another-unreleased-dr-dre-track-surfaces-get-it/

New Joint From Quiz “How I Feel” Feat. Jag and Walter French

Los Angeles’ Quiz is back on WCS with “How I Feel” featuring Jag and Walter French.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/audio/2020/11/new-joint-from-quiz-how-i-feel-feat-jag-and-walter-french/

Tuesday, November 17, 2020

Nick Hamilton Interviews Molly Higgins -LA Rams VP of Community Affairs

In this special episode of the NH Experience, Nick Hamilton interviews Molly Higgins the Vice President of Community Affairs for the Los Angeles Rams.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/culture/2020/11/nick-hamilton-interviews-molly-higgins-la-rams-vp-of-community-affairs/

L.A.’s Yung Xavi Talks To The Ladies With “Shawty Bumpin”

L.A.’s Yung Xavi is ready for the radio scene with his new single “Shawty Bumpin”.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/audio/2020/11/l-a-s-yung-xavi-talks-to-the-ladies-with-shawty-bumpin/

Aktual Recruits The Outlawz For “Tape 6 (Intro)”

Atlanta artist reached out to Young Noble and Edidon of The Outlawz for this hot new song and video “Tape 6 (Intro)”.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/video/2020/11/aktual-recruits-the-outlawz-for-tape-6-intro/

NHale Talks Money, Women and Haters With “Go Broke”

Nhale has been on a roll with releasing music videos as of late and here is his latest offering about money and haters called “Go Broke”.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/video/2020/11/nhale-talks-money-women-and-haters-with-go-broke/

Sunday, November 15, 2020

Unreleased Track From Truth Hurts and Dr. Dre Surfaces

I am not sure who initially leaked this from the studio but an unreleased track produced by Dr. Dre for his former artist Truth Hurts has surfaced on ChadKiser.com. Truth Hurts is a former Aftermath artist who once had a hit produced by DJ Quik featuring Rakim called “Addictive” that was pretty big in the early parts of the 2000’s. After that hit and the release of her album “Truthfully Speaking” she kind of fell off the scene and I am not sure why because as this unreleased song “Carol” shows, she had some heat.

You can take a listen to this song on ChadKiser.com by clicking this link.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/unreleased-track-from-truth-hurts-and-dr-dre-surfaces/

Saturday, November 14, 2020

Still the Messenger: Snoop Dogg is Hip-Hop’s Greatest Ambassador

On August 11, 1973, at 1520 Sedgewick Avenue in the Bronx, New York, DJ Kool Herc invented Hip-Hop at a “Back-to-School Jam.” Forty-seven years later, Herc’s creation has become a global phenomenon, and its reach is beyond anything any of those partygoers could’ve ever imagined. One of the many reasons it has endured is because it has evolved, and to do so, it has needed to adapt. And because of this, very few people last more than a few trips around the sun. Therefore, it is important to acknowledge those who do. It’s a testament to their abilities and a way to recognize their continuous influence on the ever-changing landscape of popular culture. To maintain such high standards over so much diverse and uncharted terrain is no easy feat. And in the history of Hip-Hop, no one has done that better than Snoop Dogg. And so it would be an insult to him, the culture he has helped shape, and everyone whose life he’s made a difference not to give him the props he deserves. Five-year-olds and eighty-five-year-olds from all walks of life know who Snoop is, and Hip-Hop is as big as it’s ever been. That is no coincidence.

 

Snoop Dogg was something special right from the jump. He debuted as a featured artist in 1992 on Dr. Dre’s first solo song, “Deep Cover.” Snoop’s laid-back flow was instantly memorable amidst the eerie bass of Dre’s haunting track. At the 1:47 mark, “Creep with me as I crawl through the hood / Maniac, lunatic, call him Snoop Eastwood.” While Snoop’s rhyme was certainly gangsta in its content, Dre’s overtly aggressive and intimidating baritone delivery one verse prior was still indeed a contrast to his new protege’s. “Killing motherfuckers if I have to, peeling caps too / Cause you niggas know I’m coming at you.”  The difference between the two is that the first reflects existence in a troubled society, but the second causes trouble. It is subtle, but it’s recognized and ultimately presents a notable distinction. That’s why their next collaborations’ most memorable moments are more about having fun than drive-by shootings despite the attention that Dre’s previous hardcore Hip-Hop had generated with direct violence on releases like N.W.A.’s Straight Outta Compton and Efil4zaggin.

 

 

The legendary single, “Nuthin’ But a “G” Thang” (feat. Snoop), from Dr. Dre’s The Chronic, has a video that takes place at a barbeque and “Gin & Juice,” a classic cut from Snoop’s masterful debut, Doggystyle, has one that takes place at a house party. Before Snoop, gangsta rap created with the intent to shock inevitably had to top itself. That is why some explicit rhymes even reached comical proportions (see N.W.A.’s “One Less Bitch”). Snoop Dogg, on the other hand, was fun and charismatic, and so rather than brutally kill people, he made party music. The attendees of the said party just happened to be strapped too. That one extra degree of separation made him more engaging to the masses and still provided an element of danger that intrigued listeners and made them want to hear more. It’s how he has equally appealed to the streets and the suburbs without compromising anything for so long. His past as a drug dealer gave him authenticity in his depictions of ghetto life. However, he also “kept it real” enough by not doing gangsta shit every day despite still being caught up in that environment because Snoop understood, if he said he did, that’s not reality either. One case in point: his classic cover of “La Di Da Di”: He spends the better part of the first verse simply describing waking up and getting ready in the morning. Another is the insanely underrated “What a Job,” where, alongside Devin the Dude and Andre 3000, they discuss how a rap career still takes its toll, like any conventional 9-5 gig – despite the fortune and fame. Ultimately, it was relatable. And relatable in a way most gangsta rap isn’t, at least to the majority of people who listen to it. And that’s one reason he has endured for over a quarter of a century on the mic.

 

 

After a particularly trying year for Snoop, 1996, wherein Dr. Dre left Death Row Records (the label that Dre co-founded and signed Snoop), he was also found not guilty of murder charges. Plus, his friend Tupac Shakur got killed, his second album, Tha Doggfather, was panned by critics, and his boss, Suge Knight, went to jail. Snoop then went and signed with rap mogul Master P and his No Limit Records label. And over his time at No Limit, his style expanded, and he meshed wonderfully with No Limit’s southern aesthetic. Some classic records Snoop participated in with No Limit are, but aren’t limited to, “Down 4 My N’s,” “Who Got The Fire,” and “War Wounds.” At that time, no rapper from one region had been so openly embraced by another. Unity like that was rare. Even more importantly, this was especially noteworthy considering Hip-Hop was still reeling from the recent deaths of Tupac and The Notorious B.I.G. It’s not only a testament to P’s business acumen but also Snoop’s ability to adjust to a new environment. (When they first connected, P even famously paid Snoop $35,000 after he only asked for $3,500 for a guest appearance on Mystikal’s song, “Gangstas.”). Snoop’s third album, Da Game Is to Be Sold, Not Told, received a lukewarm reception when it dropped. But in hindsight, Beats by The Pound did their thing, and Meech Well’s instrumental for “Still a ‘G’ Thang” was a perfect precursor for the more Westside-influenced follow-up, No Limit Top Dogg. Snoop’s last of his three No Limit albums, Tha Last Meal, was released jointly with Snoop’s new label, Doggy Style, in 2000. And that topped the Hip-Hop album charts for four straight weeks at the end of the year, during the highly competitive fourth-quarter sales push of the holiday season.

 

 

As a result of his fourth and fifth albums’ critical and commercial successes, Snoop capitalized on his revitalized popularity and, in addition to collaborating with Dr. Dre on Dre’s classic sequel to The Chronic2001, in late 1999, he also used his stature to showcase other artists. In 2000, Snoop released an album as part of Tha Eastsidaz on Doggy Style, and their eponymous debut went platinum. Additionally, at a time before YouTube, when B.E.T.’s Uncut ruled late-night weekend television, Snoop upped the ante and set a trend of hosting X-rated films. He also gave outstanding performances in mainstream movies alongside Pam Grier and Denzel Washington in Bones and Training Day. The slang that he introduced to many, especially ‘izzle’ from his famous “Snoop Dogg [What’s My Name Pt. II]” video, kept him on the radar too. Although it’s imperative to note that Snoop gave proper credit as well, telling the press in 2003 that he brought the word into “the mainstream, but it’s a way of speaking that has been around for years. It originated in Northern California.” In 2002, MTV even gave Snoop a sketch comedy show called Doggy Fizzle Televizzle. The show not only continued to expand Snoop’s audience but kept on demonstrating his range as an actor.

 

With the then next generation of Hip-Hop front and center, Snoop made a point of working with current talent; the outcomes were significant songs and highlights in his collaborators’ catalogs. His assists on Chingy’s “Holidae In” and Akon’s “I Wanna Fuck You” even helped them peak at number 3 and number 1 on the Hot 100 Charts. He also provided opportunities for emerging up and coming creatives on his joints, such as Terrace Martin and Problem (“Neva Have 2 Worry”) and Frequency (“Think About It”). However, Snoop’s most substantial connection in the ’00s was when he linked up with The Neptunes. That production team, consisting of Pharell Williams and Chad Hugo, provided him with some monster records, the two most prominent being, “Beautiful” which is just that. And the tongue-clicking “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” which is one of the biggest rap hits this side of the millennium.

 

 

While Snoop could’ve easily stuck to his winning formula of G-Funk beats and gangsta rhymes, he instead opted to expand his sound too. And that, among many other things, got him rapping over a pan flute (“Special,” an often overlooked Neptunes’ jewel) and even collaborating with Willie Nelson (“My Medicine”). While some of Snoop’s experimental records, by conventional metrics, may not have been as big as, say, “Who Am I (What’s My Name)?”, they still put him in front of an audience that otherwise probably wouldn’t have known about him. That is very admirable, especially in an industry that thrives on safe bets and the tried and true. And I believe those risks paid off in the long-game for Snoop. He wouldn’t have gotten to collaborate with Katy Perry on her iconic 2010 summer pop anthem, “California Gurls,” if he still ended every album the way he did The Chronic with Dr. Dre in ’92 (“Bitches Ain’t Shit”).

 

 

Snoop didn’t just change professionally either. He seemed to evolve personally, as well. Some growth gets documented in 2012’s Reincarnated.  In the film, Snoop Dogg takes a pilgrimage to Jamacia and becomes Snoop Lion in an attempt to embrace the Rastafarian life fully, record a Reggae album, and further separates himself from the reckless lifestyle that defined so much of his early life and career. The sincerity of the transformation from Dogg to Lion got scrutinized by some, but Snoop’s genuine attempts to stop gun and gang violence are undeniable. And that is incredibly powerful coming from Snoop, considering his history with both of those volatile elements. His reggae song, “No Guns Allowed,” even inspired the head of a political group, League of Young Voters, to pen an open letter commending him for using his platform to spread an anti-violence message. Snoop didn’t stop with that. He also dropped his first double album a few years later (seemingly a requirement for most big rap stars), and it wasn’t even Hip-Hop but gospel music with the release, Bible of Love. Indeed, it was a full-circle trip since his earliest performances date back to when he was a choir boy at the Golgotha Trinity Baptist Church in Long Beach, California. Snoop has said that it was “always on [his] heart,” and so it needed to be done.

 

 

At twenty-eight years deep into his career, Snoop Dogg has been a star longer than some of his fans have been alive. Unlike his contemporaries, he has always remained relevant and credible in his initial field of rap music. On his first album, Doggystyle, in 1993, Snoop freestyled “Tha Shiznit,” which was so dope that The Notorious B.I.G. even sampled it on his debut album’s intro as a powerful song of that era. In May of 2020, he rhymed partially in Spanish on “Que Maldicion” with Banda MS, a group that makes “banda,” a type of regional Mexican music, and it reached number 1 on the Bubbling Under the Hot 100 Chart. The ability to excel and expand in one area at such a high level is truly remarkable, especially in something as relatively young and youthful as Hip-Hop. And it is from that springboard he always has and continues to use to propel him into various cultural facets. His notoriety has also resulted in a spotlight being shined on his humanitarian efforts as well. From his role with the youth football league in Los Angeles since 2005 to him speaking with Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck in 2016 about improving relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve, Snoop has always made a point of giving back. Those are the types of accolades that shine even brighter than his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

 

Some rappers have sold more albums than Snoop, some have more money, and some have done more deals. But none are more famous. And not in a negative way either, but in a sense that he extends himself more than most. And because his versatility seemingly knows no bounds, it has allowed him to affect a diverse group of people in ways that very few are privy. An ambassador is a representative or messenger. And no one has carried the flag for Hip-Hop as far and wide as Snoop has. He is Hip-Hop’s most extraordinary ambassador, and that deserves celebration. Because if it weren’t for him, Hip-Hop wouldn’t have the power it does today. Respect due.

 



source https://westcoaststyles.com/culture/2020/11/stillthemessenger/

WCS Exclusive: Inglewood’s Rising Star Rucci Taps In For A New Interview

Rucci is one of the new bright stars of the West Coast. The Inglewood native is making a lot of noise in the industry so naturally he is checking in with WestCoastStyles. Our own Kerrington Dillon interviewed Rucci from her IG Live this past Friday and we have the video for you to watch.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/interviews/2020/11/wcs-exclusive-inglewoods-rising-star-rucci-taps-in-for-a-new-interview/

NHale Makes New Video About Life In His Hood – “In My Hood”

NHale, the son of the late legend Nate Dogg, continues to honor his father’s musical legacy with the release of this new song and video “In My Hood.” The young rising artist talks about life in the hood that he lives in and does it in the style that his pps would be proud of. NHale was recently a guest on WestCoastStyles and you can watch that interview HERE.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/nhale-makes-new-video-about-life-in-his-hood-in-my-hood/

Annimeanz & The Cudahy Youth Foundation To Do A Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway

Thanksgiving will be special for families in Cudahy this year as artist Annimeanz is teaming up with the Cudahy Youth Foundation to give away turkeys for Thanksgiving this year. The giveaway will take place on 11/21 at the Clara Street Park located at 4835 Clara Street in Cudahy, CA. Prizes and raffles will also take place at this wonderful event. Registration for this giveaway can be done at tinyurl.com/cudahyturkey. Annimeanz and the Cudahy Youth Foundation will be teaming up for more things in the future to benefit the youth of Cudahy.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/annimeanz-the-cudahy-youth-foundation-to-do-a-thanksgiving-turkey-giveaway/

Johnny D of Spanish Fly Addresses Modern Issues With “Press The Line”

Johnny D of the group Spanish Fly released this new video “Press The Line” that speaks on issues such as Covid-19 and the financial sufferings of its affects such as job losses and more. This dope cut is produced by fellow Spanish Fly member Ese Daz and it’s a slapper.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/johnny-d-of-spanish-fly-addresses-modern-issues-with-press-the-line/

Dom Kennedy & Niko G4 Drop 2 in 1 Video “Last Supper/Dark Shades”

Los Angeles’ Dom Kennedy returns to the scene with a two in one video “Last Supper/Dark Shades” featuring Niko G4. The songs are pretty hot and had my head bobbing. Check it out.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/video/2020/11/dom-kennedy-niko-g4-drop-2-in-1-video-last-supper-dark-shades/

Wednesday, November 11, 2020

Jay 305 Releases Visual For “You Too Much” Feat. The Game & Dom Kennedy

Jay 305 from South Central Los Angeles recently released a new video for his song “You Too Much” that features The Game and Dom Kennedy. Although the featured guests don’t appear in the video, it’s a dope song nonetheless that samples Christopher Williams’ “Dreamin” from the New Jack City soundtrack.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/jay-305-releases-visual-for-you-too-much-feat-the-game-dom-kennedy/

Annimeanz Drops New Video “Facts” From Cudahy Dopeboy 3

The new project from Cudahy Dopeboy 3 by Annimeanz drops later this month and here is the first song and video from it called “Facts”. In addition to the album Annimeanz will also be participating in a Turkey giveaway for Cudahy families in which we will be providing more information shortly.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/annimeanz-drops-new-video-facts-from-cudahy-dopeboy-3/

Monday, November 9, 2020

Introducing Allanee, Repping The 818

I recently came across this dope 17 year old Hispanic female rapper named Allanee and what I found interesting about her is she’s got skills and she is from my area in the San Fernando Valley. Hailing from the Sun Valley/Pacoima district, Allanee is picking up the flag for the 818 as she slays everything from straight hip-hop to trap beats. Learn more about this dope new talent in this little interview.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/introducing-allanee-repping-the-818/

WCS Exclusive: Healing Is Gangsta According To Rapper Turned Psychologist Taje’

I have known Taje’ for a long time. Back when I was covering a lot of the “new” West Coast artists when they were rising in the mid part of the 2000’s, Taje’ was a part of that group. He was involved in a lot of things whether it was in front or behind the scenes. He was also the “muscle” for several artists when things got sticky as he went viral before it was even a thing when he and Bishop Lamont were filmed pressing a local DJ who was accused of profiting off their work illegally. Taje’ was also a part of the Thug Life family and a close friend of 2Pac’s brother Mopreme Shakur. That life is all in the past as the rapper is now a trained and qualified psychologist that is looking to promote mental health and bring healing. With the help of the infamous Dame Dash, Taje’ has his own show called “Healing Is Gangsta” which is now entering its second season. We talk about it all in this new interview.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/interviews/2020/11/wcs-exclusive-healing-is-gangsta-according-torapper-turned-psychologist-taje/

Monday, November 2, 2020

New Heat! Figg Newton & Guttalane Low Talk To The Ladies With “I Kan Freak You”

Inglewood’s Figg Newton and Guttalane Low prepare for the release of their new project “Allat & Allat” with the launch of their first single and video “I Kan Freak You.”



source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2020/11/new-heat-figg-newton-guttalane-low-talk-to-the-ladies-with-i-kan-freak-you/

WCS Exclusive: Twin Sensations Cam and China Check In For A New Interview

The West Coast has some new heavy hitters on the scene with twin rhyme-spitters Cam and China from Inglewood, CA. The Twin Sensations checked in with our own Kerrington Dillon doing her first interview on her own and she knocked it out of the park. Watch and learn more about this incredible duo.



source https://westcoaststyles.com/interviews/2020/11/wcs-exclusive-twin-sensations-cam-and-china-check-in-for-a-new-interview/

WCS A&R Spotlight; On the come up, Lj Savvy drops a new visual “TSFIL” looks to kick off Savvy Summer

Pomona native Lj Savvy has been crafting a sound a bit different from what is popular today. The multi-talented musician, engineer, artist...