From his early days as a member of the pioneering rap group NWA to his successful acting and producing career, Ice Cube has built an impressive empire. But, what is his net worth in 2024? Let’s dive into the various aspects of his career that have contributed to his massive fortune.
The net worth of Ice Cube is estimated to be around $160 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Ice Cube: A Pioneering Rap Career
(Photo by Pool ARNAL/GARCIA/PICOT/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)
His career began as a member of NWA, which was formed in the mid-1980s. The group is credited with popularizing gangsta rap, and their debut album, Straight Outta Compton, remains a classic. Ice Cube was a key player in writing the lyrics for many of their songs, and his contributions significantly impacted the group’s success.
After leaving NWA, Cube embarked on a successful solo career. His debut album, AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted, was released in 1990 and was a commercial and critical success. Over the years, he has released several more albums, with many of them achieving gold or platinum status. Ice Cube’s music career has played a significant role in building his net worth.
A Thriving Acting and Producing Career
(Photo by Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic)
Ice Cube made his acting debut in 1991 with Boyz n the Hood. His performance as Doughboy was widely praised, and this opened the doors for more acting opportunities. Cube went on to star in several successful film franchises, such as Friday, Barbershop, and Are We There Yet? These box office successes contributed to his ever-growing fortune.
In addition to his acting career, Ice Cube has also found success as a film producer. He co-founded Cube Vision, a production company responsible for movies like Straight Outta Compton and Ride Along. As a producer, Cube has been able to leverage his industry knowledge and connections to create profitable projects, further increasing his net worth.
Business Ventures And Endorsements
(Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images for BIG3)
Ice Cube’s entrepreneurial spirit is another factor contributing to his wealth. He co-founded the BIG3, a professional 3-on-3 basketball league featuring former NBA players. The league has attracted significant attention and lucrative sponsorship deals since its inception in 2017.
Moreover, Cube has been involved in various endorsement deals throughout his career. He has collaborated with companies like Coors Light and St. Ides, lending his image and voice to their advertising campaigns. These partnerships have provided additional income streams, bolstering his net worth.
Ice Cube: Real Estate Investments
(Photo by Dave Simpson/WireImage)
Like many celebrities, Ice Cube has invested in real estate to grow his wealth. Over the years, he has purchased several properties, including a $7.25 million mansion in the prestigious area of Marinda Del Rey, California. These real estate investments have undoubtedly contributed to his net worth.
Philanthropy and Giving Back
(Photo by Michael Bezjian/Getty Images for Black Santa/BIG3)
Despite his significant wealth, Ice Cube has not forgotten the importance of giving back to his community. He has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, such as providing scholarships and supporting youth programs in underprivileged areas. While these efforts may not directly contribute to his net worth, they demonstrate his commitment to using his success for the greater good.
Conclusion/TLDR
In conclusion, Cube’s net worth of $160 million in 2024 is a testament to his diverse and successful career. From his pioneering rap beginnings to his thriving acting and producing career, as well as his entrepreneurial ventures and real estate investments, Ice Cube has built an impressive fortune that continues to grow.
Dr Dre, born Andre Romelle Young, is a renowned rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and audio engineer, but what is the net worth of the Hip Hop legend in 2024? In this article, we’ll dive into the sources of Dr Dre’s fortune and the factors that contributed to his massive wealth.
Dr Dre Net Worth
With an impressive net worth of $500 million in 2024, according to Celebrity Net Worth, the NWA legend has created an outstanding career spanning over three decades.
From NWA to Solo Career: The Beginning
(Photo by Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)
Following his stint with World Class Wreckin’ Cru, Dr. Dre’s rise to fame came as a member of the influential and controversial hip-hop group N.W.A., which formed in 1987. As the group’s primary producer, Dre’s unique sound played a crucial role in their success. However, after departing from N.W.A. in 1991 due to financial disputes, Dre began his solo career, releasing his first album, The Chronic, in 1992. This album catapulted Dre to superstardom, selling millions of copies and solidifying his status as a top-tier hip-hop artist and producer.
Co-Founder Of Death Row Records And Aftermath Entertainment
(Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic)
Dr Dre’s entrepreneurship in the music industry is certainly a significant factor in his staggering net worth. In 1991, he co-founded Death Row Records with Suge Knight. The label quickly became a dominant force in the hip-hop scene, especially with artists like Snoop Dogg, Tupac Shakur, and Dre himself on the roster. However, due to several controversies, Dre left the label in 1996 and founded Aftermath Entertainment. This venture further increased his wealth, as it allowed him to sign and produce for artists such as Eminem, 50 Cent, and Kendrick Lamar.
The Beats Electronics Empire
(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
In 2006, Dr Dre and record executive Jimmy Iovine founded Beats Electronics, a company specializing in audio products. Their flagship product, Beats by Dre headphones, gained immense popularity and eventually, became a cultural phenomenon. The company expanded its product line to include speakers and other audio equipment. In 2014, Apple acquired Beats Electronics for a staggering $3 billion, making it one of the most significant acquisitions in Apple’s history. This deal significantly boosted Dr Dre’s net worth, putting him closer to billionaire status.
Film and Television Ventures
(Photo by Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic)
Dr Dre’s involvement in film and television has also contributed to his wealth. In 2015, he produced the critically acclaimed biographical film Straight Outta Compton, which depicted the rise and fall of N.W.A. The movie grossed over $200 million worldwide, further padding Dre’s fortune. Additionally, he has been involved in television projects such as the HBO documentary series The Defiant Ones and the Apple TV+ series Vital Signs, which was later shelved.
Real Estate Investments and Endorsements
(Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
Dr Dre’s real estate portfolio includes several luxurious properties in Los Angeles and Malibu. He has also engaged in profitable real estate transactions, such as selling his Hollywood Hills home for $32 million in 2015. Dre’s various endorsement deals, including collaborations with brands like Chrysler and Coors Light, have also contributed to his net worth.
Conclusion/TLDR
Dr Dre’s net worth of $500 million in 2024 is a testament to his incredible talent, determination, and business acumen. His diverse sources of income, from his music career to his ventures in audio electronics, film, television, real estate, and endorsements, all played a role in amassing his fortune. As a living legend in the hip-hop world, Dr Dre’s influence and wealth continue to be felt across the industry.
Amidst the raw energy of Compton’s burgeoning hip-hop scene, DJ Yella emerged as a foundational pillar. He mixed and produced tracks that have thumped through the annals of rap history. With a career transcending the decks, he has been a defining force behind the sounds that have characterized West Coast rap. A pioneer, his beats have narrated the streets’ tales, interweaving the grit and rhythm of an era. His savvy in navigating the tumultuous waters of the music industry has not only earned him a reputation as an influential figure in hip-hop but also culminated in a personal net worth of $1 million in 2024, as reported by Wealthy Gorilla.
The Pulse Of A Genre: Career & Accolades
HOLLYWOOD, CA – JUNE 12: (L-R) MC Red, Ice Cube, Dr Dre and DJ Yella of N.W.A. At Ice Cube’s Star On The Hollywood Walk Of Fame Ceremony held on June 12, 2017 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Albert L. Ortega/Getty Images)
The ascension of DJ Yella is a chronicle of relentless ambition and raw talent. As a key member of N.W.A., his craftsmanship in producing beats for the iconic Straight Outta Compton album left an indelible mark on hip-hop. Beyond N.W.A., his solo ventures and collaborations have garnered critical acclaim. His production skills shining on numerous gold and platinum records. Yella’s accolades are not just trophies on a shelf; they are milestones that underscore his influence in shaping the sound of a generation.
Beats Beyond The Booth: Personal Life & Philanthropy
NEW YORK – OCTOBER 30: (L-R) Rappers MC Ren, DJ Yella, Eazy-E and Dr. Dre. Of the rap group NWA pose for a portrait in 1991 in New York, New York. DJ Yella is giving the middle-finger. (Photo by Al Pereira/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Away from the limelight, DJ Yella’s personal life is characterized by a quieter rhythm. While details of his private endeavors remain closely guarded, it is known that his impact extends beyond music. His philanthropic efforts, though not widely publicized, reflect a commitment to uplifting communities and supporting causes close to his heart, echoing the spirit of his activist-laden lyrics.
The Legacy Continues: A Resounding Conclusion
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 08: MC Ren and DJ Yella of N.W.A. pose with Eazy-E’s mother Katie Wright at the 31st Annual Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony at Barclays Center on April 8, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/FilmMagic)
DJ Yella’s narrative is not solely about the wealth accumulated but the cultural capital he has created. His sonic signature has left an everlasting imprint on the music industry, inspiring a new generation of artists. With a net worth that signifies more than monetary success, it encapsulates a rich legacy built on beats, bars, and the indomitable spirit of hip-hop.
Ice Cube has made waves as one of the most prolific rappers of all time, transitioning his career into movie stardom and a host of high-figure business deals. The acclaimed NWA rapper serves as a loving and present father to five children alongside his wife of 30 years. Together, the pair share three sons and two daughters, each with a wide range of talents and skills. Unlike a number of other rap icons, Ice Cube has remained loyal and faithful to his wife and kids since the couple tied the knot in 1992.
Fans may recognize O’Shea Jackson Jr. from his many roles on the big screen. The eldest child of Ice Cube and Kim Woodruff notably starred in 2019’s Godzilla: King of the Monsters, 2022’s Obi-Wan Kenobi, and even the 2015 biopic Straight Outta Compton. O’Shea Jr. shocked the world when he starred as a young version of his father in the NWA film, proving to audiences that talent truly runs in the Jackson family.
The oldest of Ice Cube’s kids, O’Shea Jr., is currently the only descendant of the rapper to have children of his own. O’Shea Jr. had a daughter in 2017 and has publicly gone on record saying his rap star father has provided him with a host of helpful fatherly advice ever since.
Darrell Jackson Also Follows In His Father’s Footsteps
Ice Cube’s second child, Darrell, may not be a blockbuster Hollywood actor, but he, too, follows in his father’s talented footsteps. Darrell writes and performs rap music under the assumed name Doughboy and even works at his father’s record label, Lench Mob Records. In 2010, Cube hopped on a track with his two eldest boys titled “Y’all Know How I Am,” which is still available online.
Darrell Jackson was born in 1992, just one year after O’Shea Jr. Ice Cube and Kim Woodruff married in the same year before having three more children.
Karima, Deja, & Shareef Have Stayed Out Of The Public Eye
Ice Cube’s youngest three children, Karima, Deja, and Shareef, have all chosen to remain largely private. The trio may have chosen to lead quiet lives on purpose, though their public silence may also be a result of their young age. Karima and Deja are Ice Cube and Kim Woodruff’s only daughters and were both born in 1994, though it remains unclear to the public if the pair are twins.
Shareef is Ice Cube’s youngest son, born in 1995. While very little is known about Shareef, the heir to the NWA rapper is known to be a massive basketball fan and can often be seen wearing officially licensed NBA apparel or joining his father at games. While Cube’s daughters have made it a point to remain quiet and private, they have been known to attend red carpet events with their family on occasion.
By all accounts, it seems Ice Cube is an excellent father who has managed to avoid any significant family controversy for the duration of his 30+ year marriage. Unlike several other prolific rappers who have multiple families with a host of different women, it seems that Cube’s wild side only comes out on the mic and the big screen.
Amidst the raw energy of Compton’s burgeoning hip-hop scene, DJ Yella emerged as a foundational pillar. He mixed and produced tracks that have thumped through the annals of rap history. With a career transcending the decks, he has been a defining force behind the sounds that have characterized West Coast rap. A pioneer, his beats have narrated the streets’ tales, interweaving the grit and rhythm of an era. His savvy in navigating the tumultuous waters of the music industry has not only earned him a reputation as an influential figure in hip-hop but also culminated in a personal net worth of $1 million in 2023, as reported by Wealthy Gorilla.
The Pulse Of A Genre: Career & Accolades
HOLLYWOOD, CA – JUNE 12: (L-R) MC Red, Ice Cube, Dr Dre and DJ Yella of N.W.A. At Ice Cube’s Star On The Hollywood Walk Of Fame Ceremony held on June 12, 2017 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Albert L. Ortega/Getty Images)
The ascension of DJ Yella is a chronicle of relentless ambition and raw talent. As a key member of N.W.A., his craftsmanship in producing beats for the iconic Straight Outta Compton album left an indelible mark on hip-hop. Beyond N.W.A., his solo ventures and collaborations have garnered critical acclaim. His production skills shining on numerous gold and platinum records. Yella’s accolades are not just trophies on a shelf; they are milestones that underscore his influence in shaping the sound of a generation.
Beats Beyond The Booth: Personal Life & Philanthropy
NEW YORK – OCTOBER 30: (L-R) Rappers MC Ren, DJ Yella, Eazy-E and Dr. Dre. Of the rap group NWA pose for a portrait in 1991 in New York, New York. DJ Yella is giving the middle-finger. (Photo by Al Pereira/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Away from the limelight, DJ Yella’s personal life is characterized by a quieter rhythm. While details of his private endeavors remain closely guarded, it is known that his impact extends beyond music. His philanthropic efforts, though not widely publicized, reflect a commitment to uplifting communities and supporting causes close to his heart, echoing the spirit of his activist-laden lyrics.
The Legacy Continues: A Resounding Conclusion
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 08: MC Ren and DJ Yella of N.W.A. pose with Eazy-E’s mother Katie Wright at the 31st Annual Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony at Barclays Center on April 8, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/FilmMagic)
DJ Yella’s narrative is not solely about the wealth accumulated but the cultural capital he has created. His sonic signature has left an everlasting imprint on the music industry, inspiring a new generation of artists. With a net worth that signifies more than monetary success, it encapsulates a rich legacy built on beats, bars, and the indomitable spirit of hip-hop.
Gangsta Rap, a subgenre of hip hop, burst onto the scene in the mid-1980s. Its birthplace was the West Coast of the United States, primarily in the inner cities of Los Angeles. This style was characterized by its raw lyrics, often detailing experiences of urban hardship, crime, and the harsh realities of street life. Pioneers of this genre, such as Schoolly D, Ice-T, and N.W.A., used their music to expose the struggles of life in the inner city, bringing a stark reality to their listeners.
Key Elements Of Gangsta Rap
Gangsta Rap is easily distinguished by its thematic elements. The lyrics often portray the harsh realities of urban life, including experiences with violence, poverty, drugs, and racial tension. These themes are often delivered through aggressive, straightforward lyrics that offer a stark contrast to the more metaphorical lyricism found in other hip-hop subgenres.
The production style of Gangsta Rap also sets it apart. The beats are typically hard-hitting, with a heavy emphasis on bass. Samples from funk, soul, and R&B records are common, often providing a gritty backdrop to the raw lyrical content.
Influence On Mainstream Culture
CHICAGO – MARCH 1994: Rapper Tupac Shakur performs at the Regal Theater in Chicago, Illinois in March 1994. (Photo By Raymond Boyd/Getty Images)
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Gangsta Rap began to break into the mainstream, largely thanks to Ice-T, groups like N.W.A., and subsequently, solo artists like Snoop Dogg, Tupac Shakur, and The Notorious B.I.G. These artists brought the sound and messages of Gangsta Rap to a broader audience, sparking both controversy and acclaim.
Gangsta Rap’s influence extended beyond music. It impacted fashion, film, and popular culture at large, challenging societal norms and bringing issues of urban life to the forefront of the national conversation. This influence continues today, with elements seen in everything from streetwear trends to blockbuster films.
Controversies And Criticisms
Despite its popularity, the subgenre has not been without controversy. Critics argue that its graphic depictions of violence and crime glorify negative behavior. However, others see it as an honest reflection of the artists’ lived experiences.
The genre has also faced criticism for its depictions of women and its use of explicit language. Despite these controversies, many defend Gangsta Rap as a vital form of expression that provides a voice for those living in marginalized communities.
The Evolution And Legacy of Gangsta Rap
INDIO, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 17: Vince Staples performs at the Sahara Tent at 2022 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival weekend 1 – day 3 on April 17, 2022 in Indio, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for Coachella)
Though the heyday of Gangsta Rap was in the 1990s, its influence continues to be felt in the music industry. Today’s artists often pay homage to the genre, incorporating elements of its sound and thematic content into their own music.
Modern Gangsta Rap has evolved, with artists like Kendrick Lamar and Vince Staples exploring the same themes of urban life but often from a more introspective perspective. These artists continue the tradition of using music as a platform to discuss social issues, all while pushing the boundaries of the genre.
Conclusion/TLDR
So, what is Gangsta Rap? It’s a powerful subgenre of hip-hop that gave a voice to the often-overlooked inner-city communities. Through its raw lyrics and hard-hitting beats, it further highlighted the realities of urban life into the mainstream consciousness. Despite its controversy, Gangsta Rap has left an indelible mark on the music industry and popular culture. Its legacy continues to inspire and influence artists today, ensuring its place in the history of hip-hop.
From his early days as a member of the pioneering rap group NWA to his successful acting and producing career, Ice Cube has built an impressive empire. But, what is his net worth in 2023? Let’s dive into the various aspects of his career that have contributed to his massive fortune.
The net worth of Ice Cube is estimated to be around $160 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Ice Cube: A Pioneering Rap Career
(Photo by Pool ARNAL/GARCIA/PICOT/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)
His career began as a member of NWA, which was formed in the mid-1980s. The group is credited with popularizing gangsta rap, and their debut album, Straight Outta Compton, remains a classic. Ice Cube was a key player in writing the lyrics for many of their songs, and his contributions significantly impacted the group’s success.
After leaving NWA, Cube embarked on a successful solo career. His debut album, AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted, was released in 1990 and was a commercial and critical success. Over the years, he has released several more albums, with many of them achieving gold or platinum status. Ice Cube’s music career has played a significant role in building his net worth.
A Thriving Acting and Producing Career
(Photo by Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic)
Ice Cube made his acting debut in 1991 with Boyz n the Hood. His performance as Doughboy was widely praised, and this opened the doors for more acting opportunities. Cube went on to star in several successful film franchises, such as Friday, Barbershop, and Are We There Yet? These box office successes contributed to his ever-growing fortune.
In addition to his acting career, Ice Cube has also found success as a film producer. He co-founded Cube Vision, a production company responsible for movies like Straight Outta Compton and Ride Along. As a producer, Cube has been able to leverage his industry knowledge and connections to create profitable projects, further increasing his net worth.
Business Ventures And Endorsements
(Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images for BIG3)
Ice Cube’s entrepreneurial spirit is another factor contributing to his wealth. He co-founded the BIG3, a professional 3-on-3 basketball league featuring former NBA players. The league has attracted significant attention and lucrative sponsorship deals since its inception in 2017.
Moreover, Cube has been involved in various endorsement deals throughout his career. He has collaborated with companies like Coors Light and St. Ides, lending his image and voice to their advertising campaigns. These partnerships have provided additional income streams, bolstering his net worth.
Ice Cube: Real Estate Investments
(Photo by Dave Simpson/WireImage)
Like many celebrities, Ice Cube has invested in real estate to grow his wealth. Over the years, he has purchased several properties, including a $7.25 million mansion in the prestigious area of Marinda Del Rey, California. These real estate investments have undoubtedly contributed to his net worth.
Philanthropy and Giving Back
(Photo by Michael Bezjian/Getty Images for Black Santa/BIG3)
Despite his significant wealth, Ice Cube has not forgotten the importance of giving back to his community. He has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, such as providing scholarships and supporting youth programs in underprivileged areas. While these efforts may not directly contribute to his net worth, they demonstrate his commitment to using his success for the greater good.
Conclusion/TLDR
In conclusion, Cube’s net worth of $160 million in 2023 is a testament to his diverse and successful career. From his pioneering rap beginnings to his thriving acting and producing career, as well as his entrepreneurial ventures and real estate investments, Ice Cube has built an impressive fortune that continues to grow.
Dr. Dre is one of the most prominent artists in hip-hop history. Though he is known for his signature deep voice, he is most known for producing some of hip hop’s most legendary songs. He has been heavily involved in shaping the careers of Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and 50 Cent, producing many of their first hits. We have previously compiled lists of Dr. Dre’s productions, focusing on his most haunting beats and his greatest productions from the Death Row era. This list looks at the entire span of Dr. Dre’s career and the best beats he has produced.
Dre has collaborated with many artists over the years, and some of his work also features co-producers. This list prioritizes those solely produced by Dr. Dre but includes songs that additional producers worked on that deserve mentioning. This list is in chronological order to emphasize the legendary production discography of Dr. Dre over his 30+ year career.
1. N.W.A. – “Sa Prize (Part 2)” (1990)
Because “F**k Tha Police” is such an iconic statement in hip hop history, the sequel to the song from N.W.A. ‘s EP 100 Miles and Runnin’ often goes unnoticed. It’s argued the production Is arguably better than the first. The tempo and percussion are mostly the same. However, the bassline and melody breathe new life into the song. The verses sound even more powerful, specifically Dr. Dre’s show-stealing verse that sets the bar very high for the rest of the song.
2. Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg – “Deep Cover” (1992)
Before The Chronic and Doggystyle, Dr. Dre reinvented his sound and introduced Snoop Dogg on “Deep Cover.” The track has one of the meanest basslines in hip hop history. The rugged drum break allows Dre and Snoop to showcase their chemistry. It is a classic instrumental that has also been repurposed by the likes of Big Pun and Tyga.
3. Dr. Dre feat. Jewell – “Let Me Ride” (1992)
The instrumental for “Let Me Ride” provides the perfect amount of smoothness and funky. Dre’s rap voice still cuts deep but also carries the infectiously catchy chorus. The song samples Parliament’s “Mothership Connection,” “Kissing My Love” by Bill Withers, and James Brown’s “Funky Drummer.” The three classics are among the most sampled songs ever. The squeaky melody and groovy bassline on this song is a prime example of why The Chronic is so significant to hip hop.
4. Snoop Dogg – “G Funk Intro” (1993)
The instrumental of Snoop Dogg’s G Funk Intro sounds almost identical to Dr. Dre’s “F**k Wit Dre Day.” It’s a more upbeat instrumental, along with a different melody. That’s what makes “G Funk Intro” among one of Dr. Dre’s best productions. It is quintessential G Funk, which is what made Doggystyle such a classic album.
5. Snoop Dogg – “Gin and Juice” (1993)
It is impossible to discuss Dr. Dre’s best beats without mentioning “Gin and Juice.” It is one of the most legendary songs in the history of west coast hip hop. Dr. Dre provides a bouncy yet lowkey sound for Snoop’s rhymes and one of the catchiest hip hop songs of the ’90s. It’s no wonder this is a classic staple in rap, encompassing the genre’s popular Golden Era.
6. Snoop Dogg – “Tha Shiznit” (1993)
“Tha Shiznit” is one of Snoop’s best lyrical moments on Doggystyle. However, it would arguably not be one of the highlights of Doggystyle without the incredible instrumental. The pulsing bassline, along with the classic flute and organ, allow for Snoop Dogg to freestyle some of his greatest rhymes so casually.
7. Snoop Dogg – “Who Am I? (What’s My Name?)” (1993)
Snoop Dogg’s Dre-produced debut single is arguably as funky as the songs it sampled. “Who Am ?” takes from George Clinton’s “Atomic Dog,” Funkadelic’s “(Not Just) Knee Deep,” and Parliament’s “Give Up the Funk.” Dr. Dre used parts of these songs from Clinton’s extensive catalog to create the ultimate single. Snoop’s introduction as a rap superstar exemplifies Dre’s talent as a producer.
8. Snoop Dogg – “Gz and Hustlas” (1993)
A highlight from Doggystyle, “Gz and Hustlas” is one of Snoop Dogg’s greatest songs. The instrumental is easily one of Dr. Dre’s best. The music box sound perfectly transitions from the “Class Room Intro” to the most complex beat on the entire album. The deep bass, along with the high-pitched synthesizers, are one of the finest moments on Doggystyle.
9. 2Pac feat. Roger Troutman & Dr. Dre – “California Love” (1995)
2Pac’s “California Love” is an anthem for the entire state for a good reason. The classic verses from Dr. Dre, 2Pac, and vocals from Roger Troutman are backed by an instrumental that is quintessentially Dr. Dre. The piano provides the main backing for the song with the additional horns, bass, and Troutman’s use of the talk box. It also has a remix on 2Pac’s All Eyez on Me that has an instrumental equally as good.
10. Dr. Dre – “The Watcher” (1999)
Dr. Dre’s production contains a lot of intricacies, whether it comes to instrumentation or a sample. The beat on “The Watcher” is simple yet effective, as it only comprises a few sounds. The space in the beat allows for Dre’s verse to stand out, and the rest of the song comes together with the whispers of the title in the actual beat. The space in the beat on “The Watcher” is similar to 50 Cent’s “If I Can’t,” which Dre produced four years later.
11. Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg – “Still D.R.E.” (1999)
“Still D.R.E.” is such a classic song that it is almost larger than life 24 years after its release. The piano melody is known by hip hop fans of all ages and transcends the late-’90s era. It is also a simple but potent instrumental by Dr. Dre and Mel-Man. “Still D.R.E.” makes for the perfect soundtrack for bouncing lowriders, precisely what the song’s music video is.
12. Dr. Dre feat. Hittman, Kurupt, Nate Dogg & Six-Two – “Xxplosive” (1999)
Dr. Dre’s hip hop production is consistently mid-tempo, making the “Xxplosive” instrumental so amazing. It is slower yet still funky. The high-pitched guitar sound, complimented by bass and xylophone, makes for a smooth listening experience. It perfectly contrasts the jarringly explicit lyrics from Hittman, Kurupt, Nate Dogg, and Six-Two.
13. Dr. Dre feat. Eminem – “Forgot About Dre” (1999)
“Forgot About Dre” has a unique bounce that very few Dr. Dre instrumentals had before its release. The beat was shaped around Eminem’s syllable-heavy hook. It allowed for both Dre and Eminem to rap double-time. Not many Dr. Dre beats were known at the time for featuring a double-time tempo. This instrumental likely paved the way for Busta Rhymes’s “Break Ya Neck,” which is even faster and also produced by Dr. Dre.
14. Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg & Kurupt – “The Next Episode” (1999)
“The Next Episode” is another one of those songs that is an essential hip hop classic. It is vital for Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre, as well as west coast hip hop. Dr. Dre’s production of songs like this one encapsulates the period in which it was released but also stands the test of time.
15. 50 Cent – “In Da Club” (2003)
The greatness of 50 Cent’s iconic hit single “In Da Club” is that the instrumental shines equally on the song as 50 does. Though the rapping and the beat shine as co-stars, they do not depend on each other. One is just as great without the other. Each component of the beat is balanced and comes together to make one of the greatest hip hop songs of all time.
16. Dr. Dre – “Talking To My Diary” (2015)
The closing track on Dr. Dre’s third album, Compton, co-produced by DJ Silk and Mista Choc, could not be a more fitting send-off. It is the only song on the album where Dr. Dre raps independently, and the beat is just as challenging as it is reflective. It is the ultimate soundtrack for Dr. Dre to look at the success that he has reached while also reminiscing about his beginnings. The song’s end features a two-minute trumpet solo from Dontae Winslow, making the song even more cinematic. Overall, Dr. Dre’s catalog as a producer is hard to beat, and there are so many iconic instrumentals to choose from. Here are the honorable mentions of the best beats that Dr. Dre has produced that did not quite make the list:
Mad close to the Deegan, the records were spinning. Hip-Hop was only a few seconds old. They weren’t quite rapping yet, but they were “EQin’’ it. However, since every time the beat drops … the party is still poppin’, and every party for the last five decades has introduced new dance styles and moves. If […]
