Exclusive: Rappers Sound Off On N.W.A’s Legacy And Impact [Photos] - Page 3

This Friday, August 14, history will be made when Straight Outta Compton, the story of the iconic gangsta rap group N.W.A, hits theaters. Simply put, without the defiant poetry of Ice Cube; the pioneering production of Dr. Dre and DJ Yella, unapologetic lyricism from MC Ren; and the hood fabulousness of Eazy-E, Hip-Hop culture would not exist as we know it.

Hip-Hop Wired reached out to a handful of current and buzzing MCs to explain (especially to their younger fans) why The World’s Most Dangerous Rap still matters, even three decades after the broke onto the scene.

We start with a man whose ethos reflect everything the group stood for.

“N.W.A was the blueprint of authenticity for all West Coast artists. The look the movement the message and the impact was completely true to the culture they represented. And the most unbelievable part was how mainstream it became.” — Nipsey Hussle

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“Me and my friends used to listen to N.W.A as kids like it was illegal. I couldn’t believe what they were saying and I couldn’t believe how amazing it sounded. We already had heroes (RUN-DMC, FAT BOYS) but N.W.A was the first group of anti-heroes in rap. They were bad asses who said whatever the fuck they wanted. That was powerful for me as a young kid. I wanted that power. they had a huge effect on how i formed as an artist. The idea of bravery, toughness and humor mixed with real messages. It was just powerful. Plus adults hated it so it had to be good.” — El-P

“The N.W.A means a lot of to the culture. Just the music itself is self-explanatory to how it was to be in that environment for the first time that had never been showcased before that group came out. With this movie coming out, we’ll get a correct depiction of it and I’m excited for what comes about.” — Vince Staples

“I mean…what can I say. If it not for them it would be no THIS. They are the sole reason I have a career and Dr. Dre is still dropping albums. Salute! — Freddie Gibbs

“I’m glad there is a movie to show the true impact and influence this group of young Black men from Compton, CA had on all communities across the world. They were true rebels with a powerful message. ‘FUCK THE POLICE’ and ‘EXPRESS YOURSELF’ they really gave us a voice. I as an artist appreciate them for showing me you can come from a community of poverty and still be proud of where you’re from and have a voice for all the people who may not be able to be heard where you’re from. I can write a book on their impact they have had on me and not only Hip-Hop but music as a whole.” — Stalley

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“N.W.A represents the birth of the conscious gangster for me. Man’s ability to supersede his own intellect with whatever ignorance is necessary. Everything Glasses Malone is today!” — Glasses Malone

“N.W.A gave the voice and perspective of the young Black male throughout the neighborhoods of Los Angeles. I never heard ‘no fucks’ being given in the fashion they delivered outside of Public Enemy. To wear Black skin in America is almost a crime, and their music boasts that fact in riot form with bass. They have influenced me by being honest, which allows me to push honesty to the forefront with how I represent myself, my peers and my neighborhood. The apparel they wore is also iconic to the entire West Coast, and I definitely have inspired pieces throughout my closet.” — Thurz

“N.W.A’s message was simple and to the point. Instead of obeying social standards, they refused and it sparked something way greater than they ever could imagine.” — Tyler Thomas