Wanted: Dead or Alive (Kool G Rap & DJ Polo album) cover

Released 36 years ago this August

Wanted: Dead or Alive (Kool G Rap & DJ Polo album)

Kool G Rap · 1990

59 min · 13 tracks · gangsta rap · hardcore hip-hop · East Coast hip-hop

A visceral blend of gritty street narratives and intricate rhyme schemes layered over hard-hitting beats.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo storytelling flow
  • gritty narratives for urban vibes
  • intricate rhymes for detail seekers
  • engaging themes of resilience
  • for late-night drives

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • dislike lyrical depth and complexity

Where this album fits

Career context
In 1990, Kool G Rap was establishing his reputation as a leading voice in East Coast hip-hop with 'Wanted: Dead or Alive', his second album. This release followed the critical success of his debut, 'Road to the Riches', solidifying his influence and showcasing his lyrical prowess alongside DJ Polo's production.
Stylistic neighbors
Nas· Big Daddy Kane· Scarface

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Streets of New York 4:19
  • 2 Wanted: Dead or Alive 4:35
  • 3 Money in the Bank 4:59
  • 4 Bad to the Bone 5:22
  • 5 Talk Like Sex 5:11
  • 6 Play It Again, Polo 4:07
  • 7 Erase Racism 4:32
  • 8 Kool Is Back 3:26
  • 9 Play It Kool 4:31
  • 10 Death Wish 4:05
  • 11 Jive Talk 4:36
  • 12 The Polo Club 4:02
  • 13 Rikers Island 5:33

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata