Dr. Dre

Dr. Dre, born Andre Romelle Young in Compton, California, is a legendary American rapper, producer, and entrepreneur. He played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of West Coast hip-hop and is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in music history. Dre began his career as a DJ in the World Class Wreckin' Cru before rising to prominence as a founding member of N.W.A, a group known for its revolutionary, controversial, and unapologetic depiction of life in South Central Los Angeles through the subgenre of gangsta rap.

Dre's production style, characterized by hard-hitting beats, G-funk melodies, and a masterful use of samples, became the foundation of his solo career and launched the careers of numerous artists. His 1992 solo debut album, “The Chronic.” was a defining moment in hip-hop, producing iconic hits like "Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang" and "Let Me Ride." “The Chronic” established Dre as a producer of exceptional talent and cemented his reputation in the industry.

As a producer and mentor, Dr. Dre was instrumental in the success of many major artists, including Snoop Dogg, Eminem, 50 Cent, and Kendrick Lamar. His follow-up album, “2001.” released in 1999, was another commercial and critical triumph, featuring hits like "Still D.R.E." and "Forgot About Dre."

Dr. Dre co-founded Death Row Records in 1991 but left the label to start Aftermath Entertainment in 1996, which became a powerhouse in the music industry. Beyond music, Dre's entrepreneurial ventures include co-founding Beats by Dre, a high-end audio products company that he sold to Apple for $3 billion in 2014, making him one of the wealthiest figures in the entertainment industry.

Dr. Dre's legacy transcends music, as he has influenced the sound and business of hip-hop for over three decades.