Death Row Records has a long history of signing some of the most popular gangsta rap artists of the '90s. Some would argue that Death Row popularized gangsta rap music. Below you can find a brief history of the record label's roster and a few pivotal moments in the label's success.
Death Row Records is formed by Marion "Suge" Knight, almost immediately becoming a success.
After breaking ties with N.W.A., Dr. Dre signs to Suge Knight's record label to produce his first solo album, The Chronic, which heavily featured his protege Snoop Dogg and the core roster of artists.
Waiting his time, Snoop Dogg releases his debut album, Doggystyle, adding the success of the label.
Charismatic newbie Tupac signs a record deal and joins the ranks of the Death Row family.
Dr. Dre leaves Death Row amid a great deal of controversy, not taking any of his music with him.
On September 7, 1996, Tupac was gunned down in a drive-by shooting — a huge loss for the hip-hop community.
Suge Knight signs TLC member Lisa "Lefteye" Lopez to Death Row Records ushering in a new generation of Death Row artists. She assumes the name N.I.N.A (New Identity Not Applicable) and her second solo album gets canceled due to her untimely death in 2002.
Both Suge Knight and Death Row Records file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
In January 2009, Death Row is auctioned off to entertainment development company WIDEawake for only $18.
(Photo: Jim Smeal/WireImage)
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