N.W.A. Members: Current Endeavors and Career Paths
A detailed exploration of the lives and professional trajectories of each member of N.W.A.
N.W.A., a groundbreaking hip-hop group, burst onto the music scene in 1987 and went on to redefine the genre, particularly popularizing gangsta rap. Comprising six talented individuals from Compton, their iconic hits like “F*** Tha Police,” “Straight Outta Compton,” and “Dopeman” delivered powerful political messages, shedding light on the challenges faced by black Americans in inner cities. While the group officially disbanded, primarily marked by Eazy-E’s untimely deаth in 1995, fans are left curious about the subsequent endeavors of the surviving members.
Eazy-E (Eric Wright)
Eazy-E, a founding member, played a pivotal role in N.W.A. and founded Ruthless Records under the guidance of record producer Jerry Heller. However, tensions arose within the group in 1991, leading to a public feud over payment and contract disputes. The disputes were resolved when Eazy-E was diagnosed with AIDS in 1995. He tragically passed away at the age of 30 on March 26th, 1995.
Dr. Dre
Dr. Dre, one of the most prolific N.W.A. members, has achieved remarkable success in the modern rap industry, becoming one of the few billiоnaires in the genre. He founded Aftermath Entertainment, launching the careers of stars like Eminem and 50 Cent. In addition to mentoring artists like Kendrick Lamar and Anderson .Paak, Dre collaborated with Jimmy Iovine to create Beats headphones, eventually selling the brand to Apple for $3.4 billiоn in 2014. Dr. Dre headlined the Suρer Bowl LVI halftime show in 2022 and received the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award at the 65th Annual Grammys in 2023.
Ice Cube
Ice Cube transitioned into a successful acting career post-N.W.A., with an impressive filmography that rivals his solo music achievements. Releasing numerous solo albums, collaborating on projects, and contributing to film and television soundtracks, Ice Cube has made significant strides in the entertainment industry. Additionally, he co-produced the 2015 film “Straight Outta Compton” and ventured into sports as the CEO and co-founder of the Big3 basketball league.
DJ Yella
While DJ Yella’s vocal contributions in N.W.A. may be overshadowed, his significance to the group was crucial. Serving as a consultant on “Straight Outta Compton,” Yella provided valuable insights into the group’s history. After N.W.A. disbanded, he stayed with Ruthless Records, producing music for Eazy-E and other artists. Following a solo album in 1996, Yella ventured into directing and producing adult films, returning to music in 2011 for the album “West Coastin.”
Arabian Prince
Arabian Prince, a founding member, left N.W.A. in 1988 due to disagreements about payment and billing practices. Despite being featured on the album cover, he was excluded from the group’s 2015 biopic and the 2016 Rock and Roll Hall of Fаme induction. Arabian Prince found success in launching a video effects company, touring as a solo DJ, and collaborating on a television project based on his comic book “Deаth For Hire: The Origin of Tehk City.”
MC Ren
MC Ren, the final member on this list, continued recording and releasing music. Remaining signed to Ruthless Records, he contributed to Eazy-E’s releases and pursued a solo career. His latest EP, “Osiris,” released in June 2022, showcases collaborations with West Coast legends. MC Ren joined other N.W.A. members on stage at Coachella in 2016, maintaining his musical journey to this day.