Dr. Dre – 2001

A landmark in West Coast hip-hop, this album showcases Dr. Dre’s signature production style, combining deep basslines, crisp drum patterns, funk-inspired samples and cinematic soundscapes with a polished, unmistakable G-funk sound.

Featuring an impressive line-up of collaborators, including Snoop Dogg, Eminem and Nate Dogg, the record balances hard-hitting gangsta rap with laid-back grooves and infectious hooks. Tracks such as “Still D.R.E.”, “Forgot About Dre” and “The Next Episode” stand out for their memorable beats, sharp lyrics and instantly recognisable melodies, while “Xxplosive” highlights the album’s smooth, funk-driven production. Confident, meticulously crafted and hugely influential, this essential release helped define the sound of late-1990s hip-hop and cemented Dr. Dre’s reputation as one of the genre’s most important producers.