Eyes on ThisArtist: MC Lyte
Community Score: 8.00
Stone Cold Rhymin'Artist: Young MC
Community Score: 10.00
Young MC wasn't given props at the time and he wasn't respected in the years following the release of his debut Stone Cold Rhymin', largely because he worked entirely in the pop-rap/crossover vein. All the same, that's what's great about his debut, since it's exceptionally clever and effective, a wonderful combination of deft rhymes and skillful...
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The Real RoxanneArtist: The Real Roxanne
Community Score: 10.00
With the aid of Jam Master Jay, Howie Tee, and Full Force, this Puerto Rican whipped up a stunning debut that highlighted her inimitable skills as a rapper and lyricist, as well as her band's way with the funk. Hihglights include "Bang Zoom," "Respect," and "Roxanne's on a Roll." ~ John Floyd, All Music Guide
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All Hail the QueenArtist: Queen Latifah
Community Score: 7.00
Straight Outta Compton - CLEANArtist: N.W.A
Community Score: 8.86
Straight Outta Compton wasn't quite the first gangsta rap album, but it was the first one to find a popular audience, and its sensibility virtually defined the genre from its 1988 release on. It established gangsta rap -- and, moreover, West Coast rap in general -- as a commercial force, going platinum with no airplay and crossing over with...
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Follow the LeaderArtist: Eric B. & Rakim
Community Score: 7.81
Having already revolutionized hip-hop, Eric B. & Rakim came up with a second straight classic in their sophomore album, Follow the Leader, which basically follows the same blueprint for greatness, albeit with subtle refinements. Most noticeably, Eric B.'s production is already moving beyond the minimalism of Paid in Full. Follow the Leader finds...
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3 Feet High and RisingArtist: De La Soul
Community Score: 7.85
The most inventive, assured, and playful debut in hip-hop history, 3 Feet High and Rising not only proved that rappers didn't have to talk about the streets to succeed, but also expanded the palette of sampling material with a kaleidoscope of sounds and references culled from pop, soul, disco, and even country music. Weaving clever wordplay and...
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A Shade of RedArtist: Redhead Kingpin and the F.B.I.
Community Score: 7.00
Shade of Red, the album debut for Redhead Kingpin and the F.B.I., was a set of entertaining rap tracks that are icy and confrontational at times. The lead singles "Pump It Hottie," "Do the Right Thing," and "We Rock the Mic Right" were hits on the R&B charts as well as the dance side. ~ Ron Wynn, All Music Guide
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