About this album

Sound: "A gritty exploration of street life, blending rapid-fire verses with haunting melodies and introspective narratives."

Where they were

Released in 2006, 'Cleveland' is Layzie Bone's first solo album after his tenure with Bone Thugs-n-Harmony. At this point in his career, he had established himself as a distinctive voice in the hip-hop scene but was navigating the challenges of individual artistry outside the group dynamic. This album marked a significant step in his journey as he sought to solidify his solo identity.

Why it matters

'Cleveland' garnered attention for its raw depiction of urban struggles and contributed to the Midwest hip-hop narrative. The album’s release coincided with a growing interest in gangsta rap, and it received notable mentions in various hip-hop publications, helping to reinforce Layzie Bone's legacy as a solo artist amid his group's success.

Essential tracks

  • "They Don’t Know" — This track stands out for its blend of personal narrative and social commentary, showcasing Layzie Bone's lyrical depth and versatility.
  • "Rain" — With its reflective tone and emotive delivery, 'Rain' captures the struggles and hopes of life in Cleveland, resonating deeply with listeners.
  • "Thug Life" — 'Thug Life' encapsulates the essence of street resilience and authenticity, making it a powerful anthem for those facing adversity.

Release Date

January 1, 2006

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Cleveland 0:23
  2. 2 The Recipe 3:46
  3. 3 They Don’t Know 4:02
  4. 4 Rain 4:36
  5. 5 All for You 3:19
  6. 6 Po Po 3:14
  7. 7 Armed and Dangerous 3:34
  8. 8 Ride Out 4:08
  9. 9 Real Niggas 3:54
  10. 10 Murder 3:46
  11. 11 Punch in the Mouth 4:05
  12. 12 Outro 0:25
  13. 13 Kick Rockz 1:15
  14. 14 We Gone Ride 3:05
  15. 15 Thug Life 2:48
  16. 16 Tonight 2:49
  17. 17 The World 2:36
  18. 18 They Hate 3:00
  19. 19 I’m Good 6:02
  20. 20 Get in, Get Out 4:11