Eazy-E, known as the “Godfather of Gangsta Rap,” revolutionized West Coast hip-hop with his raw lyrics and fearless attitude. As a founding member of N.W.A., his legacy continues to influence artists across generations.
Eazy-E founded Ruthless Records in 1986 using money he reportedly earned from street hustling, and the label later launched the careers of N.W.A, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, and JJ Fad.
Practice Questions
Q:What was Eazy-E's real name?
A:Eric Lynn Wright.
Eazy-E was born Eric Lynn Wright in Compton, California. He adopted his stage name when starting his rap career, helping develop West Coast hip-hop and defining the image of gangsta rap in the late 1980s.
Q:When was Eazy-E born and when did he die?
A:Born 1964, died 1995.
Eazy-E was born on September 7, 1964, and passed away on March 26, 1995. His life, though short, had a major cultural influence on rap music and urban street storytelling.