Hip-hop has been a dominant force in music for decades, and few names are as influential as Dr. Dre. If you’re a fan of his work and looking to explore similar artists, you’re in for a treat. Here are 16 bands, artists, and music that carry the same vibe and influence as Dr. Dre. Explore more about Dr. Dre here.
1. Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg, a protégé of Dr. Dre, has carved out his own legendary status in the hip-hop world. Known for tracks like “Gin and Juice” and “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” his albums such as Doggystyle and Tha Doggfather are essential listens.
2. Eminem
Eminem, discovered by Dr. Dre, has become one of the best-selling artists of all time. His critically acclaimed albums The Marshall Mathers LP and The Eminem Show feature hits like “Lose Yourself” and “Stan.”
3. Ice Cube
Ice Cube, a former member of N.W.A., has had a successful solo career with albums like AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted and Death Certificate. His hard-hitting tracks such as “It Was a Good Day” and “Check Yo Self” are iconic.
4. Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar is known for his complex lyrics and storytelling. Albums like good kid, m.A.A.d city and To Pimp a Butterfly feature standout tracks such as “HUMBLE.” and “Alright.”
5. 50 Cent
- Cent, another artist mentored by Dr. Dre, gained fame with his debut album Get Rich or Die Tryin’. Hits like “In Da Club” and “21 Questions” showcase his knack for catchy hooks and gritty lyrics.
6. The Game
The Game is known for his West Coast style and collaborations with Dr. Dre. His albums The Documentary and Doctor’s Advocate include popular tracks like “Hate It or Love It” and “How We Do.”
7. N.W.A
N.W.A, co-founded by Dr. Dre, revolutionized hip-hop with their raw and unapologetic lyrics. Albums like Straight Outta Compton feature powerful tracks such as “Express Yourself” and “F tha Police.”
8. Tupac Shakur
Tupac Shakur, known for his profound lyrics and activism, remains a legendary figure in hip-hop. Albums like All Eyez on Me and Me Against the World include hits such as “California Love” and “Dear Mama.”
9. Nas
Nas is celebrated for his poetic lyricism and storytelling. His debut album Illmatic is considered one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, featuring tracks like “N.Y. State of Mind” and “The World Is Yours.”
10. Jay-Z
Jay-Z has built an empire with his music and business ventures. Albums like The Blueprint and Reasonable Doubt include classic tracks such as “99 Problems” and “Dead Presidents II.”
11. Warren G
Warren G, a pioneer of the G-funk style, is best known for his hit “Regulate” featuring Nate Dogg. His debut album Regulate… G Funk Era is a staple in West Coast hip-hop.
12. Busta Rhymes
Busta Rhymes is known for his energetic style and rapid-fire delivery. Albums like When Disaster Strikes and Extinction Level Event feature hits such as “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See” and “Break Ya Neck.”
13. Ice-T
Ice-T, a pioneer of gangsta rap, has a career spanning over three decades. His albums Power and O.G. Original Gangster include influential tracks like “Colors” and “New Jack Hustler.”
14. LL Cool J
LL Cool J is one of the original hip-hop stars with a career that has influenced many. His albums Mama Said Knock You Out and Bigger and Deffer feature hits like “Mama Said Knock You Out” and “I Need Love.”
15. Method Man
Method Man, a member of the Wu-Tang Clan, has also had a successful solo career. His debut album Tical includes the hit “Bring the Pain,” and his collaborations with Redman are fan favorites.
16. Rakim
Rakim, one half of the duo Eric B. & Rakim, is often cited as one of the greatest MCs of all time. Albums like Paid in Full and Follow the Leader include classic tracks such as “Eric B. Is President” and “Microphone Fiend.”
Exploring these artists will deepen your appreciation for the genre and the legacy of Dr. Dre. Happy listening!