The distinctive G-Funk sound from Southern California created a style that shaped hip hop culture in its own image in the 90s. Since its invention by Dr. Dre with The Chronic, G-Funk has become one of hip hop’s most unique and distinguished subgenres, spreading west coast culture around the world. On this day in hip hop history, we celebrate the birth of the self-proclaimed King of G-Funk Nate Dogg.
Known for his smooth, soulful vocals on the hooks of some of the most popular G-Funk tunes of the ’90s, Nate Dogg became one of the genre’s most recognizable voices. His music career began in 1990 when he and his cousin Snoop Dogg formed the group 213 along with Long Beach rapper Warren G. After gaining influence in the newly burgeoning California rap scene, the group recorded their first demo at the legendary VIP Record Store in Long Beach. The demo was passed on to Dr. Dre, giving Nate Dogg and the rest of 213 the opportunity they needed.
Nate Dogg’s first release was on Dr. Dre’s classic debut, The Chronic, where he sang the outro to “Deeez Nuuuts.” Following the praise and recognition he received after the album’s release, he signed with Death Row Records. At Death Row, Nate Dogg continued to sing hooks and harmonize on tracks by various artists on the label. In 1994, he and Warren G released their first hit single, “Regulate.”
