E-40 with B-Legit, Too $hort, and more

Too $hort, born Todd Shaw in L.A., is a pioneering West Coast rapper known for explicit lyrics and sparse instrumentals. He released his breakthrough album, "Born to Mack," in 1988, earning gold certification. Collaborating with legends like 2Pac, Notorious B.I.G., and Jay-Z, Too $hort's hits include "The Ghetto" and "Blow the Whistle." He's achieved multiple platinum albums and continues influencing hip-hop with projects like his 2020 collaboration with E-40.

Tha Dogg Pound, formed by Californians Kurupt and Daz Dillinger, rose to fame in the '90s through Death Row Records. Known for their G-funk style, they topped charts with "Dogg Food" (1995) and collaborated with rap icons like 2Pac and Snoop Dogg. Daz became a key producer after Dr. Dre's exit, while both pursued solo careers. Their influence persists with multiple reunions and projects like "Cali Iz Active" (2006) and "Dogg Chit" (2007).

DJ Quik, born David Marvin Blake in Compton, is a revered rap figure known for his funk-inspired beats. His debut, *Quik Is the Name* (1991), went platinum with hits like "Tonite." He worked with AMG, Tony! Toni! Toné!, and produced for Snoop Dogg and Jay-Z. His albums like *Way 2 Fonky* and *Safe & Sound* are gold-certified. He also formed Mad Science label and collaborated with Kurupt, releasing *BlaQKout* in 2009.

Bay Area rapper E-40, born in Vallejo, known for inventive slang, achieved national fame with "In a Major Way" (1995) and hits like "Tell Me When to Go." He has collaborated with 2Pac, Lil Jon, T-Pain, and Mount Westmore (with Snoop Dogg, Too $hort, Ice Cube). His entrepreneurial spirit revitalized the hyphy scene, with albums frequently hitting the top charts and reaching gold status.