About this album
Sound:
"A revolutionary blend of smooth funk and hard-hitting beats that redefined West Coast hip-hop."
Where they were
Released on December 15, 1992, 'The Chronic' marked Dr. Dre's debut solo album after leaving N.W.A. This album established him as a leading figure in hip-hop, transitioning from group dynamics to a solo career while pioneering the G-funk sound.
Why it matters
'The Chronic' not only topped the Billboard 200 but also popularized the G-funk genre, influencing countless artists and shaping the West Coast hip-hop scene. The album received critical acclaim, with songs like 'Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang' becoming anthems and earning Grammy recognition.
Essential tracks
- "Nuthin’ but a “G” Thang" — This track features iconic production and laid-back verses that encapsulate the G-funk aesthetic, making it a definitive anthem of the genre.
- "Let Me Ride" — 'Let Me Ride' showcases Dre's masterful production skills combined with smooth vocals, illustrating the laid-back vibe of the album while addressing themes of street life.
- "Bitches Ain’t Shit" — This track is notable for its controversial lyrics and bold assertions about gender dynamics, reflecting the unfiltered storytelling that characterized gangsta rap during this era.
- "Fuck Wit Dre Day (and Everybody’s Celebratin’)" — This track serves as both a celebration of Dre’s success and a pointed rebuttal to his critics, embodying the bravado central to the album's themes.
- "Lil’ Ghetto Boy" — 'Lil’ Ghetto Boy' features poignant storytelling paired with soulful instrumentation, providing a reflective contrast to the album's more aggressive tracks.
Release Date
December 15, 1992
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 The Chronic (intro) 1:57
- 2 Fuck Wit Dre Day (and Everybody’s Celebratin’) 4:52
- 3 Let Me Ride 4:21
- 4 The Day the Niggaz Took Over 4:33
- 5 Nuthin’ but a “G” Thang 3:58
- 6 Deeez Nuuuts 5:06
- 7 Lil’ Ghetto Boy 5:29
- 8 A Nigga Witta Gun 3:52
- 9 Rat‐Tat‐Tat‐Tat 3:48
- 10 The $20 Sack Pyramid 2:53
- 11 Lyrical Gangbang 4:04
- 12 High Powered 2:44
- 13 The Doctor’s Office 1:04
- 14 Stranded on Death Row 4:47
- 15 The Roach (The Chronic Outro) 4:36
- 16 Bitches Ain’t Shit 4:47
