It’s been nearly 30 years since the world lost the godfather of gangsta rap, Eric “Eazy-E” Wright. The founder of Ruthless Records and the groundbreaking hip-hop group NWA, Eazy-E will forever be a legend enshrined in the very fabric of the genre. Before Eazy, the City of Compton was an unknown spot on the map which many outside the State of California had never heard of. Eazy-E and NWA changed the entire narrative in hip-hop by telling stories through rap about a lifestyle that was reality not only in the Los Angeles area, but in neighborhoods across America.
In celebration of Eric “Eazy-E” Wright contributions to the City of Compton, Mayor Emma Shariff and the city council unveiled the renaming of the 100 block of Auto Drive South to Eazy Street. Many of Eazy-E’s family were in attendance along with the public to recognize the celebration. Mr. Alonzo Williams, president of Compton Entertainment Chamber Commerce was instrumental in pushing the motion to rename the street which runs right through the heart of Compton in conjunction with Alameda Street. Friends, family, and admirers from all over came to witness the ceremony with musical performance, lowriders and vibes. In addition to DJ Yella, several members of Eazy-E group Bone Thugs-N-Harmony were in attendance.
Speaking at the celebration, Eazy-E’s mother Kathie Wright stated, “I’m so proud of everyone here today, I love you all and thanks so much for showing up at this presentation. Thank you very much, the city of Compton.”
“I would like to thank everyone that had a part in this, and I love you and God bless, he is watching from a distance. Thank you very much. Everybody have a nice day and a Happy Thanksgiving.” ~ Kathie Wright
Eazy’s mother’s speech was followed by Eazy-E’s son, Eric “Lil Eazy-E” Wright who spoke on the street renaming. “My father finally got what he deserves, a monumental street in the city he (Eazy-E) put on the map. It’s been a long time coming, but again, I always say it’s God’s timing.”
The renaming of Eazy Street comes in as the world celebrates the 50th year anniversary of hip-hop. Eazy-E’s impact was not isolated to California, but global as he is recognized as the founder and godfather of the genre. In popular culture today, Eazy is credited with the birth of a sound that carries on in many of the records made today. Eazy-E legacy is one that will forever live on through his children, his fans, and true hip-hop enthusiasts that recognize the real!!
To fully understand the impact Eazy-E has made on the culture, I must share a personal story. The year was 1988, I was 14 years old when I heard Eazy-Duz-It for the first time. As Biggie said in his hit, “Juicy”, I rocked my Eazy-Duz-It cassette until it popped, then I bought another. The album was the rawest, dopest, collection of music I had ever heard. To draw comparison, Eazy-Duz-It was a moving force that gave millions an identity. No other body of music since Michael Jackson’s Thriller Album, had the grit and bravado as the Eazy-Duz-It Album. From Compton to Connecticut, people moved in droves to cop a Raiders or Los Angeles Kings hat with black locs and dickie pants. From 1998 to 1991, Eazy-E and NWA were not only musicians, but trendsetters who captured the hearts and minds of millions. To Eazy-E, Thank You, Well Deserved! s/o to KDAY 93.5 for the wonderful coverage
Rest In Peace~ Eric “Eazy-E” Wright #foreverEazyE
