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.
Why this album works
'Wanted: Dead or Alive' is significant for its early contributions to the mafioso rap subgenre, influencing subsequent artists like The Notorious B.I.G. and Nas. It received critical acclaim and helped cement Kool G Rap's legacy in hip-hop history, often regarded as a blueprint for storytelling in rap.
- 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
- Kool Keith· Too Short· Dr. Dre
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Streets of New York Standout 4:19
- 2 Wanted: Dead or Alive Standout 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 Standout 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
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