G Funk Classics, Vol. 1 & 2

Nate Dogg is one of the greatest singers in hip-hop's history; his ultra-smooth, church-honed voice was the key ingredient in dozens of classic singles throughout the '90s and '00s. He apparently never got paid for many of his early Death Row hits, and he finally left the label to release this, his long-awaited debut solo album. Upon dropping independently in 1998, it never got much exposure. Yet years later, it still impresses with 31 tracks absolutely overflowing with Nate's inimitable vocals and top-notch G-funk production from the likes of Daz Dillinger, QD3, and Warren G, among others. The lyrics mostly concern ladies, homies, and the streets, with his uncanny ability to bounce between bravado and a sensitive lover-man style showcased throughout. Nate Dogg remains the soul of hip-hop, and his amazing music should live on forever. Highlights here include "Because I Got a Girl," "She's Strange," "Friends," "These Days," and "Nobody Does It Better."