MASTER P “Ghetto D” Released September 2nd 1997

LABEL: Priority Records, No Limit Records

BILLBOARD: The Billboard 200 1997 No.1 ‘Ghetto D’ Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums 1997 No.1 ‘Ghetto D’ Hot Rap Singles 1997 No.2 ‘I Miss My Homies’ The Billboard Top 100 1998 No.16 ‘Make Em Say Ugh’

PRODUCTION: Master P, KLC, Carlos Stephens aka C-Los, O’Dell, Craig B, Mo B. Dick, DJ Darrel, K-Lou, Randy Jefferson & Dez.

01. Ghetto D w/C-Murder & Silkk (4.37)

The infamous track that got Master P and the No Limit Soldiers on top of the rap game. This track would have to be the best song on the entire album as the three Miller Bros. rap about the dope game and making crack, which is also portrayed as slangin albums like crack. Master P does a great job in rapping in this track and the production by KLC is 100% on point with a great sample and tight bass line. C-Murder & Silkk also lace the track well with pure ghetto and helped make this track one of the most controversal songs ever by the tank let alone the album title already added fuel.

02. Let’s Get Em’ w/Mystikal & Silkk (5.49)

This beat produced by C-Los is tight with a nice hard No Limit beat taste to it. The appearance by Mystikal and Silkk rappin’ hard as hell make this beat come alive. Master P also tears the mic apart and sets the record straight for the haters who he rides on in the tank with aggression in all raps in this track, a hard beat to ride to.

03. I Miss My Homies w/Sons Of Funk, Mo B Dick, O’Dell, Pimp C & Silkk (5.23) 

Master P takes time out to remember his fallen homies and all the fallen soldiers with Pimp C and Silkk. The song is a dedication to 2pac, B.I.G & Kevin Miller (Master P’s Brother) and also all fallen soldiers we have all lost. The pain of the ghetto is expressed through the raps of Pimp C and the track had the world mournin’ as it hit charts and hearts all over the world. The background vocals and hooks are put into place with Mo B Dick, who also produced the track, Sons Of Funk and O’Dell. A song to blaze up to and remember the fallen homies.

04. We Riders w/Mac (3.57) 

Another tight song by KLC who composes another classic beat to ride to which helped make the tank the best label at the time. Master P is assisted with the raps of the talented Mac who does a great job on this hard No Limit beat and rides all the way through the beat with a nice smooth but hard flow.

05. Throw Em’ Up w/Kane & Abel (3.23) 

Phat, Phat, Phat! This track is produced by O’Dell and has a mad ass beat to it that Master P raps perfectly on. The dueo of Kane & Abel who spit on this beat make it another classic to ride to. Kane & Abel make this song bump to its full potential as Master P calls out to his Soldiers on the hooks.

06. Tryin’ 2 Do Something w/Fiend, Mac & Mo B Dick (3.23) 

Produced by DJ Darrel this song is for the ladies and features the likes of Fiend and once again the talented Mac. Mo B Dick helps the hook out with Fiend and the track samples the famous Thug Life classic “Bury Me A G”. The beat is mellow and the raps are smoothly delievered for the ladies.

07. Plan B w/Mia X (3.50)

A modern day Bonnie & Clyde as Mia X joins the colonel in a Craig B produced beat that rocks the head from side to side. Mia X posts here raps on time with every beat that Craig B drops. The track is for the players who keep some ho’s on the side for pleasure only.

08. Weed & Money w/Silkk (4.05) 

A song for the pimps and hustlers who play the everyday dope game of the ghetto. Master P anthems up he lives for ‘Weed & Money’ as others live for ‘*****es & Blunts’. The beat is produced by Mo B Dick who does a great job on makin a perfect beat for the lyrical content. A layed back song for yall to smoke to and roll low with your skrilla. Silkk raps on the beat making it soar with his unique rapping style which fits just like a missing piece of a puzzle.

09. Captain Kirk w/Fiend, Silkk & Mystikal (5.05)

C-Los brings Master P back to Richmond California with this Cali inspired beat he produces. The Cali hit is laced with Southern hospitality as Silkk, Fiend & Mystikal ride on the track with the colonel making it another classic beat from the tank. The song is lyrically filled with how to becareful of these skandolous *****’s and how to be the mack in the game of *****. Another great track and a highlight to hear Master P return to his Californian influence in rap.

10. Stop Hatin’ w/Fiend, Silkk, Mo B Dick & O’Dell (5.04)

A dedication to the player haters and enemies who hate on players in the game doing their thing. Master P along with Fiend and Silkk lay the smackdown on the jealous ones and with the help of Mo B Dick & O’Dell on the hooks make their message clear. The beat once again is laced with a lil Cali love which is produced by Randy Jefferson. Another layed back track for the cool cats.

11. Eyes On Your Enemies w/Silkk, O’Dell & Mo B Dick (3.30)

Produced by O’Dell this song is a slow yet hard beat which explains how we gotta keep our eyes on our enemies. Silkk does an excellent job on the rapping and O’Dell and Mo B Dick keep the beat freaky with the harmony singing in the background. A song that will get mixed emotions by different listeners.

12. Make Em’ Say Ugh w/Fiend, Silkk, Mia X & Mystikal (5.06) 

The song that got the whole world riding the tank and people all over screaming ‘Ughhh’. This song is a pure classic and showcases the all star team of the No Limit tank. The production by KLC was once again tight and backs up the fact that he can do some really awesome tracks. The Soldiers all had their turn with the mic on this one and it still gets the party bumpin’ til this very day. Rappin’ 4 Tay & comedian AJ Johnson make a quick appearance on the intro which is funny and Master P fires first: “Nigga im the colonel of this mother*****en tank/yall have the big thangs, we after big bank. 3rd ward hustlers, soldiers in combats my comrades is dealers and killers wit TRU tats”

13. Going Through Somethangs w/Big Ed & Mr Serv-On (4.41)

Master P rides with two of the most deadliest soldiers on the tank Mr Serv-On & Big Ed aka The Assasin (R.I.P). Produced by K-Lou once again Master P delivers his Cali style beats to the listeners and runs through the struggle of ghetto life. Tracks such as these help this album become as popular as it is and the credit earned by Master P was well deserved as he stuck with the Westcoast influence which rap listeners could not ignore. A classic song on the album along with the other Cali based beats.

14. Only Time Will Tell w/Mac & Sons Of Funk (4.08)

Only time will tell whether we go to heaven or hell? Master P brings another relaxed flow and beat that bumps with a good meaning on the way of life and where we go after death. Mac drops a few bars on the beat making all his appearances on this album well felt and kept all the fans anxious for a solo album which was finally delivered a year later. Produced by Dez and rapped on by MP and Mac this had a great ingredient for a song.

15. After Dollars, No Cents w/Silkk (3.34)

Producer K-Lou has his second hit on this album after his impressive ‘Going Through Somethangs’ track which was perfectly executed. Master P does well on this Cali based track and passes an assist to his younger brother, Silkk The Shocker for a grand finally. Great track all round all over.

16. Gangsta’s Need Love w/Silkk, Mercedes & Lawand (4.07) 

A song for the boo’s down with their man. Master P and Mercedes go at it with the stories of ghetto love and just having a down ass ***** by your side. Mercedes harmonizes the hooks and the beat is composed perfectly by Mo B Dick. An excellent track for you to listen to with a down ass B’…

17. Pass Me Da Weed (3.05) 

All rap album’s wouldnt’ be complete without the traditional weed anthem. Master P has Craig B produce the track which is full of lil tweeks that are bound to hit a spot with the weed smokers out there who listen to this track. The song is another typical weed song and is a must for a successful album that is full of pimping, ho’s, crack and ghetto life in general.

18. Come And Get Some w/C-Murder & Prime Suspects (2.31) 

Produced by KLC a short track but yet still has the strength to hit the ear-drums with full force. Master P, C-Murder & Prime Suspects all manage to squeeze real gangsta shit in just over 2 and a half minutes of real ghetto talk. One of the most gangsta tracks on the album its a shame they couldnt’ of extended the song a little bit more, which makes you think maybe it was more of an introduction for the new soldiers Prime Suspects?

19. Burbons & Lacs w/Silkk, Lil’ Gotti & Mo B Dick (4.10) 

To end the album Master P goes out rollin in the cadi with Gambino Families Lil’ Gotti & Miller brother Silkk The Shocker. The track samples ‘Sexual Healing’ and along with his production hand Mo B Dick also sings the hooks. A track that caught the attention of many rap listeners most notibly non No Limit fans.

After a successful run on the tank back in 1996 with ‘Ice Cream Man’ and ‘Bout It Bout It’ Master P returned bigger than ever with ‘Ghetto D’. This album marks the era where it all began for No Limit and its success brought the South into the spot light. The all star features from the tank, the production by Beats By The Pound and Richmond Cali influence all rolled into one to deliver one of Master P’s best ever LP’s. This album was full of classic tracks after each other that not only hit the charts but also signed new soldiers to the tank. A near classic for Master P and a highlight in his career as he moved a small label from the Dirty South to one of the biggest labels in history next to Deathrow Records. RATING: 4.5/5

1. Humpty Dance 

The CD kicks in with the track that made DU explode on the scene. Humpty Hump takes the lead introducing himself (Shock G’s alter ego) and his signature dance This song is a classic and you can see why with its funky clapped out bass line (which Humpty acknowledges) and ‘dope-a-delic’ lyrics.

2. The Way We Swing 

“Are you hip-hop? RnB?” DU reply in their own honesty, they are themselves with their own original sound. The song is about how other people hear their music and try to take their styles. Features a lot of shout outs at the end to countries across the world that like the way they swing

3. Rhymin’ On The Funk 

Just check out this beat! This dope beat is a duet from Shock G and Money B. Both their vocals and the beat fit together because of their smoothness. Great track

4. The New Jazz (One) 

A very quick interlude. Its over before you even have a chance to skip it. Some piano beats. Funky, very short

5. Underwater Rimes (Remix) 

Somehow this song actually has an underwater feel to it especially when MC Blowfish takes a verse! This track has some of the cleverest lyrics on the CD. It pretty much takes an every day situation and turns it into an underwater dimension

6. Gutfest 89 (Edit) 

The intro of this song should have been separated from the song because it lasts over a minute meaning you have to fastforward it to get to the song Another Shock-G and Money-B duet In case you hadn’t guessed the song is about taking a road trip to a music palooza with a lot of sex going on! The beat is nice and quick and the breaks are filled with snippets of commentary from the Gutfest festival. Good song for breaking to

7. The Danger Zone 

Another song to show DU’s totally original sound. The bass is so low I cant get under it! Feel the kick drum! This is funky, through and through, laced with a few strings. Guitared hook What its really about is the situation of drugs in the hood and the dramas and dangers that follow. A message which is delivered in DU’s independent style

8. Freaks Of The Industry 

Sexual ‘freaks’ that is! It’s another Shock G and Money B collabo, Money busts some nice quick flows. Beat is slooow and chilled. Mainly about a multiple choice of what you would do caught in a dodgy sexual situation. Piano Man takes us out of the song. Real smooth.

9. Doowatchulike 

Its another DU classic and it plays at over 8 minutes long! Most of the lines end with “Doowatchulike” but its all good because the beat is constantly moving with variations in the beat every few bars. Its all about being yourself and basically doing “watchulike,” whenulike, howeverulike, as long as its cool This song is just straight dope… halfway through an announcer announces that radio stations may fade out, but it still keeps going! Samples, chants, Piano Man, break beats, pumping bass! This is one of those few songs that can go on for ages but still remain dope.

10. Packet Prelude 

Piano Man takes the prelude to Sex Packets

11. Sex Packets 

A very slow, mellow, smooth and sensuous beat. The idea is to capture the feeling of a sex packet in this song so this song is like trying one, apparently. The track is all sung. Smooth, something to blaze to and full of synthesised sounds No doubt this is another DU classic. Not often you get to hear stuff like this ever.

12. Street Scene 

A packet-dealing skit

13. Packet Man 

A Shock-G and Humpty Hump duet this is funky! It’s the song to the Street Scene skit basically. Real funky. DU got the styles!

14. Packet Reprise 

Instrumental lead out from the album

Verdict:

What can i say, this CD is smoooth! Digital Underground are unknown to alot of people except those who heard Shock-G and Money-B on ‘I Get Around’ by 2Pac. They were around years before the start of gangsta rapping. Their style always had been different and more fun yet often holding political meaning.

Sex Packets is a classic CD no doubt. Their sounds are original, their lyrics are clever and the rappers have character. If you call yourself an ‘oldskool rap fan’ then this should be in ur collection

Although this is definately DOPE some of the beats become uninteresting. An essential nonetheless

4.5/5

1. D-Flo Shuttle 

The moment you start playing this you know the CD will be good! By this time in D.U.’s timeline Tupac had been initiated as a member, although this is his only rapping appearance on the whole album! “D-Flo Shuttle” features a funked out saxophone bass line and a really catchy hook. Its one to sing along to! A fantastic introduction into the CD!

2. Heartbeat Props 

“Everybody get ready for the HEARTBEAT PROPS!” The track is about DU giving props out to living black representatives in the media. The song takes up a pumping bass line another sung/ sampled hook and bridge with a few classy choral verses. Great song

3. No Nose Job 

Humpty’s own song. Comically strung chords come as a standard and of course, Humpty Hump’s funny lyrics. And once again, disguised in its funny shell of a song, it also holds a deeper meaning, about how young kids are beginning to think they’re inferior because of the media Funny and dope song. And check out the cutting at the end

4. Sons Of The P 

Looking at the track time, this is another long jam at over 9 minutes long And once again it’s another original DU beat. You will either like it or you wont. If you like George Clinton’s voice you will be pleased to hear he graces the song with the DU emcees This song is laid back. Like I said, you either like it or you don’t. You decide.

5. Flowin’ On The D-Line 

I love this track. It has an almost Michael Jackson sounding beat. Shock-G tells of a story when he was on the D-Flo shuttle! Sadly its only one verse long with no chorus. Has some crazy cutting at the end

6. Kiss You Back 

The perfect radio-friendly song with such an oldskool style, this is really chantable It’s a Shock-G and Money-B duet once again! The motto is simple: “kiss me and I’ll kiss you back!” Its all about returning the favour. Full of nice nonsensical lyrics (“see me coco might go pop!”). A very playable tune.

7. Tales Of The Funky 

The most noticeable thing about this song is it samples “One Nation Under A Groove.” Shorty-B takes the verses which is different from Shock and Money’s flowing but he does a good job anyway. Humpty Hump supports the hook. This track is worth the boogie!

8. The Higher Heights Of Spirituality 

Interlude featuring some preaching and Piano Man’s talent

9. Family Of The Underground 

If you were waiting for another Tupac appearance, you can hear his voice at the start (that’s it) Think of “If My Homie Calls” and you will get an idea of what this song sounds like with “Family Affair” as the sampled hook Since DU’s last outing they had initiated a few more members and this track is each of their opportunities to flow. You should already recognise Stretch of Naughty By Nature already The bass on this song bangs! A good song. Each emcee has their own style of flow

10. The D-Flowstrumental 

Instrumental of “The D-Flo Shuttle” You may just consider it as a filler because it isn’t too necessary

11. Good Thing We’re Rappin’ 

Suddenly the atmosphere changes to something more threatening to fit in with the changing sounds an image of rap becoming gangsta. Yet ironically, Humpty Hump takes the verses in alternates with Shock-G! It also kicks some hilarious lyrics and even soulful singing near the end (check it out for yourself!) It’s another long jam (9 minutes). Humpty Hump takes up a lot of time giving shoutouts. And that closes the album!

Well what can i say? DU have pulled it off again. Their sounds still stay original and fun, humorous and friendly Like ‘Sex Packets’ this is another DU release you will want in your collection. Lots of fun and a class CD. DU may be funny but they keep it real.

Rating: 4.5/5

01. I Call Shots w/Roscoe (4.23)
02. Loose Cannons w/Daz & Xzibit (2.23)
03. Who Ride Wit Us w/Daz & Bad Azz (4.21)
04. Represent Dat G.C w/Daz, Snoop, Soopafly, Tray Dee, Jayo Felony & Butch Cassidy (5.06)
05. Welcome Home w/Latoya (4.13)
06. Tequilla w/Niva, Daz & T-Moe of Goodie Mob (3.45)
07. Trylogy (2.15)
08. Neva Gonna Give It Up w/Warren G, Snoop, Nate Dogg, Tray Dee & Soopafly (4.45)
09. Tha Streetz Iz A Mutha w/Daz & Big Pimpin (4.08)
10. Ya Cant Trust Nobody w/Daz (2.52)
11. It Ain’t About You w/Soopafly, Tray Dee & Latoya (4.47)
12. Girls All Pause w/Nate Dogg & Roscoe (3.28)
13. Your Gyrl Friend w/Daz (4.07)
14. Ho’s A Housewife w/Dr Dre & Hitman (4.44)
15. I Ain’t Shit Without My Homeboyz w/Daz, Soopafly, Crooked I & Baby S (4.37)
16. Step Up w/Crooked I & Xzibit (4.53)
17. Live On The Mic w/Krs-One [Bonus Track] (5.28)
18. Callin Out Names [Hidden Track] (3.55)

PRODUCTION: Organized Noize, Daz, Blaqthoven, Fredwreck, Soopafly, Bink Dogg, Meech Wells, Dr Dre, Battlecat & Joe Marrone.

BILLBOARD 1999 No.31
Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums 1999 No.5
Hot R&B/Hip Hop Singles 2000 No.62 “Girls All Pause”
Hot R&B/Hip Hop Singles 2000 No.62 “Who Ride Wit Us”
Rhythmic Top 40 2000 No.21 “Who Ride Wit Us”

Born Ricardo Brown in Philadelphia in 1972, Kurupt (aka Young Gotti) one half of the infamous but now split Dogg Pound Gangstas returned in 1999 with his second solo album after leaving the highly successful Deathrow Records, which he has recently rejoined. After Kurupt’s first success solo album on Antra Records entitled “Kuruption” 1999 was clearly the year of the Dogg as all members of Tha DPG reunited as one along with former Deathrow artists such as Tray Dee & Dr Dre to bring us “Tha Streetz Iz A Mutha”. With features on this album from not only the DPG members and production from the best in the game this was bound to catch the attention of all rap fans world wide.

After a hard couple of years off Deathrow Kurupt had finally launched himself as an official solo artist as many often, and still to date, associated him with his former partner in crime Daz Dillinger (aka Dat Nigga Daz).

In “Tha Streetz Iz A Mutha” Kurupt delievers his best performance to date and the featured artists and production team perfectly produce a ground breaking album. Artists such as Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, Soopafly, Daz & Dr Dre, already well known for their contribution to the game, all manage to perform to the best of their ability as you can see the full potential shine off all artists as they truely resurrected the DPG and Westcoast Gangsta rap which dominated the rap community for years. We are also introduced to Roscoe’s lyrical flow as he steps up to the stage with his big brother Kurupt and even find the odd callabo with Hip Hop’s Ol’ School Krs-One and Goodie Mob’s T- Mo.

The album is pure Westcoast bangin’ as tracks like Fred Wreck’s produced “Represent Dat G.C” features the enitire click from Snoop Dogg to Jayo felony. As each artist rips the mic apart Battlecat sings the hooks with the talk box, defining the typical G- Funk, DPG classics we all look forward to hearing, we are even hit with the famous and unforgetable “W Balls Radio” skit at the beginining.
Similar G- Funk songs such as Meech Wells’ “Neva Gonna Give It Up” with DPG and a side serving of Warren G is notibly a highlight in the album as Kurupt’s flow and performance with his fellow homies show his full potential along with the featured artists as they fit perfectly together on the beat. Nate Dogg continues the blows on the hook as he proudly sings “Im still a Dogg Pound nigga im Neva Gonna Give It Up…Never Gonna Give It Up”. The Soopafly production on beats such as “It Ain’t About You” & “Welcome Home” with Latoya, are also highlighted as the songs are laced with pure Soopa-doopa-fly flow and filled with Westcoast tweaks and synthesizers as only Priest knows best. Daz has also contributed to the production with hard classic DPG hits such as “Tha Streetz Iz A Mutha” which offers Big Pimpin’ as he schools the listener about the streets with his smooth voice and pimped out slang, mostly remembered for his Pimp Preaching on Above The Rim’s “Big Pimpin”. Daz also uses a different style on “Loose Cannons” with Xzibit along with Kurupt as the rapping is done over a sample of NWA’s “Quiet On Tha Set” performed by MC Ren off the “Straight Outta Compton” album. Kurupt’s ability to lyrically perform and flow are excellent on these tracks and the production make Kurupt’s talent explode all over the album even more than usual.

Other bangin’ tracks included are Organized Noize’s “I Call Shots” with Roscoe & “Tequilla” with T-Mo from Goodie Mob, where Kurupt literally tears the beats to shreds. The blessing of the Dr Dre “Ho’s A Housewife” track also is spectacular as Kurupt again lyrically performs smoothly with non stop rhythm along with Hitman on his side. The club joint “Girls All Pause” produced by Bink Dogg with Nate Dogg has a catchy hook and Roscoe smooth sails out the beat with his brothers witty syle of rapping and flow. “Trylogy” also by Bink Dogg uses a classical sample of violins as Kurupt unites the East/West hardcore flow to the track to match the composer, which he performs with ease. The overlooked co-production and background vocals by Blaqthoven on a few songs is perfect as he has earned today the prevlidge to produce for artists such as Tha Realest, C-Bo & Eastwood.

For the Deathrow fans there are lyrical contests in tracks such as “I Ain’t Shit Without My Homeboyz” & “Step Up” as Kurupt goes one on one with the most talented lyricists on the album, besides himself and lil’ brother Roscoe, and that is Crooked I. Together with Daz, Kurupt’s ability to rap together with Crooked I is deadly and both artists spit venom as Kurupt blasts 100mph on “Step Up” “Terror starts, in the midst of your heart, starts/the storm, my vocals float like arts. In the mystic state of mind, when i create a rhyme/my microphone massacres every year the same time”. The lyrical content by Kurupt is extradionary and he has always shown lyrical talent along with the ambition to flow to any beat dropped on his ears from his debut on The Chronic. The album also has a special guest appearance by none other than Hip Hop’s Ol’ School flava of KRS-One on “Live On The Mic”, its good to see KRS with Kurupt putting the Ol’ & New school together in production aspect and in lyrical flow as well. The album also features a hidden track “Callin’ Out Names” produced by Fredwreck, which is directed at Kurupt’s beef at the time with DMX, Ruff Ryders and Murder Inc. The beat is funky and the words are hard to swallow as a lyrical master puts himself at the front line.

Kurupt has gone to extra lengths on this album to ignite DPG and his old homies from Deathrow Records and make this an album to remember. The production on this album was spectacular G- Funked with a tablespoon of DPG & the spices of Westcoast genius. Flow was on point as for the lyrics… well it should be used as a lyrical dictionary for upcoming rappers. To hear the DPG united on tracks laced with Fredwreck beats and other westcoast artists is rare today. To have four to five rappers all on the same dope beat is phenominal. The year of 1999 was obviously the highlight for the DPG as all artists returned on this album with a message… and that was to say WE BACK!. Kurupt had lead the way for the album and did an excellent job on it without a doubt. The album was more or less a highlight in DPG history as the coming together of all former associated artists after years was history itself. Kurupt had set high expectations with this album and they could of got away with calling it The Reunion, because thats what it was a reunion. The DPG has had its greatest moments in its past but “Tha Streetz Iz A Mutha” would have to be on the top of the list. Kurupt has shown a stunning talent more than usual on this album and the production, features and lifetime of the tracks are fantastic. This was an album for all lovers of real rap and if you were a DPG, Westcoast or G- Funk fan this was a bonus by far. Kurupt aka Young Gotti had so much with DPG and it is a shame today the group is no longer together due to their differences. The hope for Kurupt on Tha Row is that the most interesting lyrics were between himself and Crooked I who is also on the same label…together they are a deadly combination of Westcoast thugs with the talent to tongue twist their way to the top.

RATING: 4/5

JAY-Z – “Reasonable Doubt” Released June 25th 1996 

01. Cant knock The Hustle w/Mary J Blige (5:17) 
02. Politics As Usual (3:41) 
03. Brooklyn’s Finest w/ Notorious B.I.G (4:36) 
04. Dead Presidents II [New Lyrics] (4:27) 
05. Feelin It w/Mecca (3:48) 
06. D’Evils (3:31) 
07. 22 Two’s (3:29) 
08. Can I Live (4:10) 
09. Ain’t No Nigga w/Foxxy Brown (4:03) 
10. Friend Or Foe (1:49) 
11. Coming Of Age w/Memphis Bleek (3:59) 
12. Cashmere Thoughts (2:56) 
13. Bring It On w/Big Jaz & Sauce Money (5:01) 
14. Regrets (4:34) 
15. Can’t Knock The Hustle [Fools Paradise] w/Meli’sa Morgan (4:46) 

PRODUCTION: DJ Premier, Clark Kent, Big Jaz, Irv Gotti, Ski, Knowbody & Damon Dash

Billboard 1996 No.23 (Album)
Billboard 1997 No.70 (Album)
Hot Rap Singles No.7 “Can’t Knock The Hustle”

Born Shawn Carter in Marcy Projects of Brooklyn NY Dec 4 1970, Jay-Z, as we know him as Jigga introduced himself to the game with his debut “Reasonable Doubt” in mid 1996. With tracks like “Can’t Knock The Hustle” & “Ain’t No Nigga” hittin charts back in the day. Jay-Z introduces himself in this album as the smooth hustler from Brooklyn NY rapping about the struggle in the hustle, money, and rising to the top.

DJ Premier laces a few tracks with his typical Gangstarr sound with scratch samples on the Eastcoast deep flow of “D’Evils” where Jigga flows that NY style which many believe compare to Nas’ “Illmatic”. Jiggas features include artists who were rookies in the game & you can hear rappers like Foxxy Brown on “Aint No Nigga” bust her rhymes hungry to break through the game as Big Jaz laced the track wit a sample of “Seven Minutes Of Funk” by The Whole Darn Family.

“Cant Knock The Hustle” with Mary J Blige blows up and gives you that Brooklyn style funk as she sings on the hook and Jig flows naturally to the beat “Factions from the otherside would love to kill me, spill 3 course of my blood/into the street let alone & heat, *****’em”. Another soulful beat is “Dead Presidents II” where Jig raps about the paper chase & the hustle he been through, with production by Ski on this track you can see the classic of this track grow once again even today.

The controversial “Brooklyn’s Finest” produced by DJ Clark Kent & co-produced by Damon Dash featuring BIG causes confusion with 2pac fans to whether or not it is aimed as a dis as BIG spits “Who Shot Ya” and “If Faith had twins she would have two pacs..get it 2..pacs” the beat is a nice old school sampled beat along with most the production, which became a typical sound on Roc-A-Fellas tracks into the future. This album most recognized for Jiggas hustle like flow & his ability to blend with the old school beats spiced up showed critics how a young nigga from the projects can rock the mic and represent his city.

All his features are all new comers to the game & you can hear there efforts to spit lyrically as Memphis Bleek raps crazy on “Coming Of Age” and Sauce Money tears the mic on “Bring It On”. Irv Gotti, Murder Inc, even has his share of production on tracks like “Can I Live” & “Cant Knock The Hustle Remix” which are not top highlights on the album as they pump out the same kind of style other NY niggas were doin back in 96 & start to sound alike.

With his Scarface influences i see how Jigga tried to break through just like Scarface wanted to do, make a name for himself, which he did. All production is pretty tight apart from a short track “22 Two’s” a short talented freestyle though “Friend Or Foe” which lacked room for Jigga to bust & “Feelin It” which people were’nt feelin as Mecca’s hooks were not in place. This album was bumpin back in the day & you can still hear these tracks today & bop your head to most of them especially real rap lovers of all styles.

This debut album by Jay-Z would have to be one of his best even though rap was different in 96, lyrically he tore the mic as he comes across cool & calm & he had an excellent flow as his rappin purified the tracks. Production was good as long as Jay could flow to the beat & callabos were hungry niggas wanting to make a name for themselves…..a bumpin eastcoast album which cleared the way for fellow Brooklyn rappers & one of NY’s best rap albums of the 90’s..Hard to rate but here go….

RATING: 4/5

Now, Tupac has just been convicted of touching some girl’s ass, 4 Years in hell. This album actually debuts at #1 while he is in prison. Whats the result? Read on my friend.

1. Intro 

Length: 1:45
Featured Artists: Unknown.
Track Rating: None.

Basicly the intro is some basic beats, with people talking in a ‘news-reporter’ like way about his 1994 Shooting in the Manhattan recording studio. It’s quite interesting the first time you listen to it, but naturally after a while you’ll be skipping it.

2. If I die 2nite

Length: 3:56
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 5 / 5

I don’t think a better track could have started off this classic album. I think this was the actual time when Tupac started thinking about his own fate. The whole track is about ballin’, about how he is known, his former life and of course, about his own death. A fairly deep track, but gives a decent mental picture of how he lived and what he was thinking. If I were Afeni, i would have featured this track on his Greatest Hits album. A true classic, I don’t think this track gets the props it deserves, but its all good.

3. Me Against The World

Length: 4:40
Featured Artists: Dramacydal.
Track Rating: 5 / 5

This track is defiantly a classic, very nice production, intelligent verses, catchy hook. This track has it all. It is based, similarly to #2, on ballin’ and obvious how Tupac himself as a Rapper and a person is facing the world. Tight verse by Dramacydal, this makes for a quality pac-track. Even a sample of it was played in the movie ‘Bad Boys’ and is on the sound-track, if I recall correctly.

4. So Many Tears

Length: 3:59
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 2 / 5

I don’t like to do this to Tupac, but this track has a wack beat. Which in all slows the whole track down, which I’d rate under average, well under ‘Pacs average. The track is a very deep one mainly about death, his death, god, his peers passing and him trying to give up T H U G L I F E. All in all, sad song, wack beat, simple verses, below average.

5. Temptations 

Length: 5:00
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 3 / 5

This is more of a party track, and as the title suggests, its about women. The beat is aight, but you wouldn’t be able to just play it when your chillin’ maybe stoned or pissed. On the movie ‘8 Mile’ while some of the characters are driving around sample of this track can faintly be heard. So this track just reaches average.

6. Young Niggaz 

Length: 4:53
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 4 / 5

Aight, aight! Now I can really vibe to this track. Nice production, real lyrics. ‘Pac gives a shout out to the young/late Robert Sanderford, who if y’all don’t know that is; young LA gangsta who slang dope, was found shot dead in his brothers room. ‘Pac really thought about this track and the message he was trying to put over. Over-Average for this one.

7. Heavy In The Game 

Length: 4:23
Featured Artists: Lady Levi, Richie Rich.
Track Rating: 4 / 5

Another tight production, nice verse by Richie Rich and ‘Pac. Although Lady Levi’s random singing lines can get a bit annoying, all in all its a great track based hustlin’ and keeping yourself alive while being, heavy in the game.

8. Lord Knows 

Length: 4:31
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 4 / 5

First Line: ‘I smoke a blunt to take the pain out’, simple; the track is based around pain, god and once again ballin’. Tight production, some of the best ‘Pac verses I’ve ever heard. Thus, Over-Average Rating.

9. Dear Mama 

Length: 4:39
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 3 / 5

I know y’all is gonna yell at me for my rating on this track, and I’m sorry ‘Pac, but after a while the track is only an average Pac-track. Although it was the track that leaded the album to its Number 1 spot, it’s a highly deep, sensitive song about, you guessed it; his Mother, Afeni Shakur. He’s reminiscing back on all the stress he put on her through the years. But other than that it is, whether you face it or not, a slow and boring track. Not wack but only average.

10. It Ain’t Easy 

Length: 4:53
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 4 / 5

***** Yeah! Now we’re bangin’ again. This track has some slow but good verses by ‘Pac, spittin’ about his life, ballin’ and how life ain’t easy. Nice song, but can become boring after excessive bumpin’.

11. Can U Get Away 

Length: 5:45
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 2 / 5

Ok, this is a wack-ass track. I think Tupac was trying to show his sensitive side towards women or something i dunno what he was smoking, the beat is neary like something in the background of a porno movie. Slow and boring, skip.

12. Old School 

Length: 4:40
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 4 / 5

This is a good track, not too fast or slow. Its interesting to just listen to his lyrics, they rock! He’s basicly just reminiscing on the, yep, the old school!

13. ***** The World 

Length: 4:13
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 4 / 5

Another one of them tracks that are wild to slowly concentrate on what he’s saying. Decent beat, the track is based around all the shit that has or was happening to him at the time, then he’s saying, ***** The World!

14. Death Around The Corner 

Length: 4:07
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 5 / 5

This track has one tight-ass beat placed under ‘Pacs crazy verses. Once again speaking on his own death and his life. I personally think this track can be placed up there with ‘Me Against the world’ or ‘If I die 2Nite’.

15. Outlaw

Length: 4:32
Featured Artists: Rah Rah, T.H.U.G L.I.F.E?
Track Rating: 3.5 / 5

This track has a tight-production, decent verses but the OUTLAW, OUTLAW, OUTLAW, will be getting circulated around your mind for days to come. It bores you also after a while. Basicly track is about ballin’ and being an outlaw.

Well there you have it, give the most controversial rapper one *****ed up year, a recording studio and you get ‘Me Against The World’. All in all, This Album is a good sign of Tupac’s amazing talent to give you a mental picture or message through his music. Not only were the tracks bangin’, lyrically they had meaning. I would recommend this album to anyone who is a Hip-Hop fan.

It’s all politics, that’s all it is right? Well for Tupac Amaru Shakur it was more then politics, it was his life! 1995 was obviously not a good year for raps most watched and media hounded individual as numerous conspiracies, betrayal’s, and other types of drama befell 2Pac. Then it happened, someone let the beast loose! Suge Knight bailed 2Pac out of Clinton Correctional in October 1995 and immediately signed him to his label, Death Row Records. What would 2Pac say? What as on his mind? What did 11 months of prision do to Pac? All that would be answered with a title similar to his situation: All Eyez On Me. Rap’s first double album.

Book 1

1. Ambitionz Az A Ridah 

Pac lets it all loose here in this opening track to the double album. It is evident that Pac has a lot to speak on with these 3 longer then usual verses which touch on jealousy, Government involvement in his life, and overall problems that seem to follow the rapper wherever he goes. All done of a dope Daz production complete with violins and guitar licks.

2. All Bout U 

The same ***** everywhere we go! 2Pac, Nate Dogg, and the Outlawz get down on this track about seeing the same females constantly. A very dope verse from Fatal complete this song lyrically. Also includes cameo’s from Dru Down and Snoop Doggy Dogg. Bass filled Johnny J. production

3. Skandalouz 

2Pac telling tales about pullin tricks on tricks, while Nate takes over the hook. Nice Daz production as well.

4. Got My Mind Made Up 

This track has more of a East Coast feel to it as Daz and Pac start it off with G’d up yet MC-like verses, then on to the true MC performances of the track. First off is Kurupt with a metaphor induced verse. Next up is the Ticalian Stallion, Method man and as always with him is Redman to finish it off. Expect this to have the only East Coast vibe on the whole album

5. How Do U Want It. 

The raunchiest song on the record complete with the catchy chorus from KC & Jojo of Jodeci.

6. 2 Of Amerikaz Most Wanted 

The concept definitely reflected the times! Both 2Pac and Snoop Doggy Dogg come correct and real on this track detailing how the federal government wants them out of the public eye. Also a very dark yet gangsta’d out beat provided by Daz. A political club banger… Who would have guessed?

7. No More Pain 

Killing them softly over a bounce-music type of beat provided by Devante’ of Jodeci. This song is basically a “warning/flossing/can’t ***** with me” effort by Pac and not the last one to be heard on the album. The chorus which is taken from the Method Man hit “Bring the pain” has a chill effect when spoken by 2Pac.

8. Heartz Of Men 

Pac’s most constant flow on the whole album over a DJ Quik beat with exerts from Richard Pryor. Very dope song with good use of wind instruments.

9. Life Goes On 

A very emotional song that can break down the hardest nigga living. Like “Dear Mama” Pac succeeds at making the audience emotionally touched.

10. Only God Can Judge me 

The greatest political effort on the whole album! Pac not only uses his own experience in this song but also his political philosophy on the state of black youth. A classic joint that till today sticks with us all. Good verse by Rappin 4-tay but it seems he is not on the same page as Pac himself and lacks the potent effect Pac has.

11. Tradin War Stories 

It’s game. An OG concept of G’s with stripes reminiscing on old street war tales. Features a dope verse by C-bo, good efforts by EDI and Storm of Tha Outlawz, but Napoleon steals the show with his re-account of him witnessing his parents murder.

12. California Love (RMX) 

Who can forget this early 1996 banger which features the good Dr. and Zapp artist, the late Roger Troutman? Even though this is not the version that became the hit radio and video single it holds it’s weight. Maybe even more so then the original. Dre’s popular orchestra-like beat style, G-funk’d out, is perfect for Pac’s verse where he gives love to Cali. Classic!

13. I Ain’t Mad At Cha 

The third single off the album showcases the good chemistry between Danny Boy and 2Pac. Pac does what he does best by performing three very emotional verses while Danny Boy takes it away with his soulful chorus.

14. What’z Ya Phone # 

The porno beat-like track seems to be the only out of place song on the album. The beat it self seems like a spin off of a Porno background beat. Though not bad, it’s not the greatest song on the album. Phone Sex on a rap song just ain‘t cracking.

Book 2 

1. Can’t C Me 

What a way to start off the 2nd half of the double album.. With a beat that can blow your speakers the funk out! This intense track features the father of funk George Clinton who makes his cliché weird yet can’t stop listening to vocal performance. Good ode to the funk and a very special production by Dr. Dre.

2. Shorty Wanna Be a Thug 

Probably one of the best production efforts on the album. It is the epitome of that west coast sound. Concept: The tale of a YG (Young Gangsta for you squares) growing and learning the realities of the streets.

3. Holla At Me 

“Thought yall niggas was Gangstas” concept behind this fast paced song that basically calls out all comers. Good vocal effort by Jewell.

4. Wonda Why They Call U Bytch 

We all know Pac has respect for the sistas.. But this women sympathetic song dissects why a woman is called a “*****”. Another deep thought song. Also a slap in the face to C Delores Tucker and her Hip-Hop witch hunt. Superior production from Johnny J.

5. When We Ride 

The song that introduced the world to the Outlawz. Though now only down to three members as of 2003, this song features the original grouping of Tha Outlawz: Makaveli (Pac), Fatal, Kastro, Napoleon, EDI, Mussolini (Syke), Kadafi, and Kormaini (Mopream Shakur). Dope track.

6. Thug Passion 

Another song for the ladies based on a Drink containing Cristal and Alize. Features Storm, the Outlawz, and nice vocals from Jewell.

7. Picture Me Rollin 

More of a political song but with flossing twist. Basically Pac is poking fun at everyone who tried to keep him in jail or put him there. Mentioned are Government agencies, Clinton Correctional, and the District Attorney who tried his case. Dope verse from CPO the boss hog as well. Not to mention great production coming again from Johnny J.

8. Check Out Time 

Another dope beat from Johnny J. Concept about a post panty raid at a hotel the next day. What else can I say? It’s Check out time! Kurupt comes real tight with another on-key rap which flows to the beat perfectly. Sub par verse from Syke though.

9. Rather Be Ya Nigga 

This one again is for the ladies. But is about not being the main love, but the part time lover. The chemistry between Richie Rich and 2Pac shines on this one as Rich unlike the outlaws can keep up with Pac’s player type sensuality and raunchiness. Also another dope production effort from Bay Area producer Doug Rasheed.

10. All Eyez On Me 

The title track which sums up the whole album concept. After all the drama surrounding Pac the last year and now that he is free; All eyez on him! The dope beat (later used by Nas on “Street Dreams”) is one of the more memorable beats by Johnny J as the whole album concept is laid into one song.

11. Run Tha Streetz 

Story about business with the streets and then having to deal with his boo’s concerns. Staying up worrying, wondering if he will come home, and letting him do his thing. Comes with the territory when loving a thug nigga. Great Bass filled production.

12. Ain’t Hard 2 Find 

Gangsta Shit! The beat is dead on with the feel of the lyrics as Pac, E-40, B-legit, C-Bo, and Richie Rich drop that G shit to a Mike Mosely beat. Lyrically 2Pac comes his strongest on this one. Ain’t nothing but a Bay Area party!

13. Heaven Ain’t Hard To Find 

Ending on a positive note: Another Danny Boy – Pac Collaboration, which like before works out nice. Making a production appearance is QD3, son of Quincy Jones who makes a G-funk style ending to an almost perfect album.

After two discs of pure and raw game 2Pac finishes what probably is his most popular effort ever! Going 6 times platinum by September 1996 and eventually all the way to 9 times platinum, All Eyez On Me is seen by many as the peak of 2Pac’s skill. Definitely a classic album with it’s memorable cuts and catchy hooks. After all coming off of being shot, charged with rape, sent to prison and finally freed to the first place 2Pac found a home has to be a tremendous task for the average man. For 2Pac this was life, and all eyes were on him. I give this album a 5 out of 5: Classic!

This was Ras Kass´s second album. He dropped his critically acclaimed album “Soul On Ice” in 95. Lets see if this album lived up to the expectations.

1. Endtro (Intro)

2. Rasassination 

Ras is getting a good start with “Rasassination”. It’s a dope beat and Ras is dropping tight lyrics all over it. The hook is good too.

3. Ghetto fabulous feat Dr Dre & Mack 10 

I just love this beat. Not to mention the tight performance by Dre, Mack 10 and Rass kass. I wonder how a group with these three rappers would be like. Anyway, back on track to the track. Like I said, the beat is tight and I love the hook since it’s catchy. This is not only the best track on the album, it was also the first single of it. I don’t know why Ras didn’t blow up with this single.

4. LapDance feat R.C.

What the hell is this? Don’t tell me that Ras is trying to make a club song. If that’s the case then this is the worst club song ever. Nothing is good on this track.

5. (Skit)

6. Conceited bastard 

Sometimes I wonder what’s wrong with Ras Kass’s ear – this beat is wack and boring. Since the beat is so wack you hardly get to the hook. That’s to bad since the hook is good. Wack track!

7. Ice age feat Kurupt & El Drex

“Ice age” has got another wack and boring beat. It’s to bad since Ras, Kurupt and El Drez are dropping dope lyrics. The hook is nothing special either.

8. (Skit)

9. H2oproof feat Saafir

Just as I started to lose hope, Ras Kass finally gets a tight beat. He don’t waste any time; he is spitting dope lyrics with frustration and a whole lot of energy. Ras even got a hip-hop quotable in “The Source Mag” for one of his verses. Tight track!

10. It is what it is feat Jazze Pha

The beginning of this track is funny. Then the laid-back beat kicks in and you get the feeling that it’s a serious track. The hook is RnB inspired and is very catchy. It’s a good track that could have been a good single.

11. Interview with a vampire feat God and Satan

This is a track that got a hard dope beat with matching lyrics. It’s a good concept by Ras Kass and it’s a very interesting track. He really pulled of a tight and original track with this one.

12. Wild pitch feat Xzibit, Jah Skillz & Phil Da Agony 

The beat on this track is not good but it’s not bad either. That doesn’t seem to matter tho since the rappers on the track are dropping tight lyrics over it. The hook is definitely good but it’s still an average track.

13. OohWee!

In the beginning of the track Ras is saying that he “doesn’t give a ***** about a beat” (like Snoop said In Doggfather). I believe Ras tho since this beat is wack. It’s to bad since his flow is on point and of course his lyrics are tight. The hook is very catchy too. If this track had a better beat it could have been a single.

14. All or nuthin´ feat Twista 

Twista start this track with an awesome verse. He is not the only one impressing me; Ras is really dropping tight lyrics too. Twista and Ras Kass are very good together and it’s definitely showing on this track. It don’t hurt that the beat is dope and the hook is good, too.

15. Grindin feat Bad Azz

It’s hard to describe this track. The beat and hook make it sound like a party track, but Ras complex rhyme style is making it sound like a battle track. Still it’s a good track, I just don’t get what crowd it’s aimed at.

16. I Ain’t *****ing with you 

Once again Ras gets a boring beat that is kinda laid back. I cant listen to this track for more then one minute. The hook is simple and boring and Ras is saying a few unnecessary racist comments too.

17. Get at me 

This track is better. It’s got a good, laid back beat that fits Rass Kass. The hook is very nicely done by a female singer and Ras is spitting good game.

18. The end feat Rza

Rza is starting the track off with an impressive verse over the good, laid back, beat. Ras is also dropping tight lyrics and it’s a good track, but it feels like it’s too late to save the album.

I must say that I’m very disappointed. Ras tried to go mainstream but failed. Most of the beats on this album are wack. The lyrics are tight but sometimes they don’t fit in with the theme of the track. I would only recommend this album to the true Ras Kass fans or maybe people who just care for the lyrics. I give it 3/5

This is B.G`s sixth solo album, but his first album released on a mainstream level. The album contains the hit single “Bling Bling”.

1. Intro (Big Tymers)

Big Tymers are talking over a tight beat.

2. Trigga play

First track got a banging beat but the problem is that it doesn’t fit B.G his voice is to laid-back. However he still manage to make this a tight opening track.

3. Cash Money is an army

Tight beat and a good catchy hook with tight gangster lyrics is the best way to describe this track. It was also the first single off the album; don’t know why they chose this track though – the beat doesn’t have that typical club-sound. But I don’t care if it’s a single or not. The song is tight and one of the best on this album.

4. Play’n it raw feat Hot Boys

Everybody from Hot Boys (Lil Wayne. Turk, Juvenile and B.G) is dropping tight verses over the banging beat. The Hot Boys was a tight group and they’re proving it on this track.

5. With tha B.G feat Big Tymers

The beat isn’t all that, but if you can look past that, you will notice that B.G is flowing tight over it. Even the Big Tymers are dropping some good lyrics on this track. You can play this track when you drive, our while you are chilling at home.

6. Made Man feat Big Tymers

On this track B.G really showed of his skills and his tight flow. The beat fits him perfect too. Perfect track, where everything is tight.

7. Bling Bling feat Big Tymers and Hot Boys

The big hit from the album! This track got it all catchy hook with a tight beat, good performance from the features. The song is all about the “Bling Bling” And was a mayor hit for B.G. Although the song is very good, it doesn’t really fit in with the rest of the album.

8. Knock out Feat Turk

This beat is tight laid back with a gangster feel to it. The way it’s changing during the hook makes it even better. B.G and Turk are dropping some tight lyrics on this track. Good track overall.

9. Real Niggaz

The beat is very good on this song, and it’s about how B.G is down for his friends and that nothing should come between them. He is really showing of his tight skills, his flow is on point and the song is good. Everybody should listen to the lyrics because it got an important message in it.

10. Dog ass feat Juvenile

Funny song. Could been a good club song and it’s got a very original beat. Don’t really fit in with the album though.

11. Cash Money roll

The beat is laid back and B.G is dropping tight lyrics. The song is about how they do it when you are rolling with Cash Money Records. You almost wish you were down with Cash Money Records after hearing this track.

12. Niggaz in trouble feat Lil Wayne & Juvenile

This is one crazy beat, it starts with some type of orchestra music and then the bass kicks in and the beat make a switch to crunk music. Anyway it works very good and they all flow tight over the beat. They manage to make it a tight track with one of the most original beats ever.

13. Thug’n

On this track, B.G is dropping one of his best lyrics ever. Mannie Fresh´s making one of his finest beats too. This song is perfect and easily the best track on the album… I recommend every one to check out this track if you never heard of B.G.

14. Hard Times

Deep track with a good message, that’s the best way do describe this track. B.G is taking us trough his childhood in this song; the track is well written and really impressed me. I hope he will do more tracks like this.

15. Uptown my home

On this track B.G is representing for his hood. He does it well over the tight, dark beat. The track is basically about how it goes down in the Uptown. Tight track.

16. Bout my paper

The piano sample that is used in this track is flawless and fits the beat perfectly. The song is about how B.G is serious about his paper and won’t let any body stop him. Good way to end the album.

Overall this is a tight album from one of my favorite rapper. This isn’t the normal Cash Money Record either. B.G is on a straight gangsta feel on this album; the beats are very tight and show a lot of variety. There is really not much that I can complain about. The only thing I can say is that they should put some tracks in better order.

I give this album 4 of 5 stars.