The West Coast is re-emerging once again thanks to the talented lyricism being displayed. Artists such as Blu, Pacific Division, and Shawn Jackson are ushering in a new era of emcee. I have always been a fan of the Left Coast because of people like Tupac, Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Too Short, NWA, Ice Cube, C-Bo, E-40, Luniz, Yukmouth, and more. I guess you can say I was influenced by the gangsta rap that dominated the 80's and mid 90's. As time progressed I was introduced to Ras Kass, who happens to be one of my favorite rhyme spitters. I would listen to his material via cd player or Walkman and constantly hit the rewind button. I was also exposed to other emcees during this time, most notably Crooked I, Encore, Hieroglyphics, Planet Asia, Rasco, Dilated Peoples, Xzibit, Kurupt, WC, Mack 10, B Real, and more. These artists provided a base or foundation for where I am today and why I respect the culture as a whole. Who would have imagined that a west coast emcee would drop a freestyle every week for a year (Crooked), or that an unknown emcee would surprise folks with a stellar release (Blu). I believe that hip-hop will continue to evolve and balance will be restored, remember that we are all individuals and we have the power to not be forcefed material.
CHECK OUT THESE DOPE WEST COAST SPITTERS
Bishop Lamont
Crooked I
Ras Kass
Blue Scholars
Common Market
Blu
Pacific Division (get that Sealed For Freshness Mixtape)
Custom Made
Fashawn
Co$$
Surreal (relocated to California, originally from Florida)
Kero One
Braille
Shawn Jackson
Sandpeople
Inverse
TiRon
Okwerdz
Planet Asia
Rasco
Hieroglyphics
Dilated Peoples
Encore
Sly Boogy
The Game
Glasses Malone
Mykstro
Commoners and Kings
Casual
Self Scientific
Zion I
Medusa
Defari
Likwit Crew
The Liks
Strong Arm Steady
sheesh I can keep on going forever and ever...the point is that the WEST is back, please forgive me if I have left notables off...IT IS LATE HAHA!!!
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