He raps, “Here’s a murder rap to keep y’all dancin’ with a criminal record like Charles Manson” (“Straight”). Ice Cube states that he is a dangerous individual who can easily respond with aggression and violence. The song begins with Ice Cube’s verse which instantly sets the tone for the rest of the song. It is clear that NWA was the most influential rap band from Compton, who managed to attain commercial success after the release of their “Straight Outta Compton” single. The gangster rap songs made in the late 1980s and the early 1990s in Compton highlighted the experiences of African Americans with gang activity and police brutality in Los Angeles. The area produced numerous artists who were not afraid of talking about their struggles of living in Compton through an innovative art form of rap. In the 1990s, Compton, a city inhabited by African Americans, became one of the most iconic locations for rap fans around the world. Kun’s statement particularly holds true for Los Angeles, which has a diverse music scene where each area has its own songs and genres, which help listeners understand life in these places. Ultimately, as noted by Josh Kun, “songs… can ground us in a sense of home…, and reimagine just what home can mean” (183). Yet, songs made by Los Angeles artists also reflect the personal stories and experiences that they encounter living in LA neighborhoods. Every year, aspiring musicians move to Los Angeles wishing to find ways to start their careers and become famous worldwide. Los Angeles is home to the world’s music industry since many major music labels have their headquarters in this city.
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