N.W.A

Definition

N.W.A (Niggaz Wit Attitudes) was a groundbreaking hip-hop group from Compton, California, that emerged in the late 1980s and is often credited with popularizing gangsta rap. Known for their raw and explicit lyrics that addressed social issues like police brutality and racial inequality, N.W.A became an influential force in hip-hop culture, shaping the genre's narrative and paving the way for future artists.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. N.W.A was formed in 1987 and included members Eazy-E, Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, MC Ren, and DJ Yella.
2. Their album 'Straight Outta Compton' was a critical and commercial success, debuting at number 1 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
3. The group's track 'F*** tha Police' sparked widespread controversy and was a catalyst for discussions about police violence and racism in America.
4. N.W.A's influence extended beyond music; they helped to give voice to marginalized communities and inspired a generation of artists to address social issues in their work.
5. Despite disbanding in 1991, N.W.A's legacy continues to impact hip-hop culture and is often referenced by contemporary artists addressing similar themes.

Review Questions

• How did N.W.A's lyrics contribute to the discussion of social issues in America during the late 1980s?
  • N.W.A's lyrics were unfiltered and directly addressed pressing social issues such as police brutality, racial discrimination, and economic struggles faced by African Americans. By using their platform to share their experiences growing up in Compton, they brought attention to realities that were often overlooked by mainstream media. This candid approach not only resonated with listeners but also sparked conversations across the country about race relations and social justice.
• Analyze the impact of 'Straight Outta Compton' on both the hip-hop genre and popular culture as a whole.
  • 'Straight Outta Compton' revolutionized hip-hop by bringing gangsta rap into the mainstream spotlight. The album's unapologetic content challenged societal norms and redefined what rap could be. Its success paved the way for other artists who wanted to tackle similar themes, ultimately influencing the direction of hip-hop music and culture in the years to come.
• Evaluate N.W.A's legacy in relation to contemporary hip-hop artists addressing similar themes of social justice and inequality.
  • N.W.A's legacy is evident in how contemporary hip-hop artists continue to address themes of social justice, police violence, and racial inequality. Artists like Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole draw inspiration from N.W.A's fearless storytelling and commitment to shedding light on injustices. The group's influence serves as a reminder of hip-hop's power as a vehicle for social change, demonstrating how music can not only entertain but also educate and inspire movements for equality.

Related terms

Gangsta Rap: A subgenre of hip-hop music that reflects the violent lifestyles of inner-city youths and often includes themes related to crime, street life, and social issues.

Straight Outta Compton:

The debut studio album by N.W.A, released in 1988, which includes some of their most iconic tracks and played a crucial role in bringing gangsta rap into mainstream music.

Censorship: The suppression of speech or public communication that is considered objectionable or harmful, which became a significant issue for N.W.A due to their controversial lyrics.