What makes Rhyme Pays by Ice-T notable?

'Rhyme Pays' is significant for its commercial success, reaching number 101 on the Billboard 200 and number 13 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. It contributed to the rise of gangsta rap as a dominant force in hip-hop, influencing countless artists and paving the way for future West Coast hip-hop projects. Released on July 28, 1987, 'Rhyme Pays' was Ice-T's debut studio album, following his critically acclaimed EP 'Radio' from 1986. This album marked his transition into a full-length artist, solidifying his role in the burgeoning gangsta rap scene emerging from Los Angeles.

Who is Rhyme Pays for?

Rhyme Pays works well if you're into wave-like pacing with intensity, gritty street tales immersion and infectious beats for movement.

How many songs are on Rhyme Pays?

Rhyme Pays has 13 tracks, running approximately 65 minutes.

Rhyme Pays

Ice-T · 1987

65 min · 13 tracks · heavy metal · gangsta rap · hardcore hip-hop

A gritty blend of street tales and braggadocio wrapped in infectious beats and Ice-T's commanding delivery.

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Why this album works

'Rhyme Pays' is significant for its commercial success, reaching number 101 on the Billboard 200 and number 13 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. It contributed to the rise of gangsta rap as a dominant force in hip-hop, influencing countless artists and paving the way for future West Coast hip-hop projects.

Career context: Released on July 28, 1987, 'Rhyme Pays' was Ice-T's debut studio album, following his critically acclaimed EP 'Radio' from 1986. This album marked his transition into a full-length artist, solidifying his role in the burgeoning gangsta rap scene emerging from Los Angeles.
Stylistic neighbors: Dr. Dre· Too Short· Ice Cube

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Intro / Rhyme Pays 6:30
2 6 ’n the Mornin’ Standout 7:16
3 Make It Funky 5:10
4 Somebody Gotta Do It (Pimpin’ Ain’t Easy!!!) Standout 3:04
5 409 5:22
6 I Love Ladies Standout 4:45
7 Sex 2:58
8 Pain 3:36
9 Squeeze the Trigger 6:14
10 Make It Funky (12″ mix) 5:57
11 Sex (bonus beat) 3:52
12 Somebody Gotta Do It (Pimpin’ Ain’t Easy!!!) (12″ mix) 3:28
13 Our Most Requested Record (long version) 6:43

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata

What to play next

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Go back to

The Classic Collection

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gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop heavy metal