With the hip hop game changing so drastically, I thought it would be fun to go back and remember one of the classic albums that define the true spirit of hip hop, Dr. Dre’s 1999 album 2001.

This album is a timeless classic that shaped hip hop for such a long time and not only helped bring up-and-coming artists to light, but it also was a huge source of inspiration for new artists.

The production on this album is amazing. It is a true depiction of what real hip hop used to sound like and the beats that used to be freestyled over. It has that 1999 Los Angeles aesthetic.

After releasing his debut studio album The Chronic, Dre was praised for introducing the sound of G-Funk into the world of hip hop, and I feel like this album was a way for Dre to tell the world that he’s still got it. I like the sense of loyalty that this album gives off. From the loyalty that all of these artists have for their city to the loyalty and respect they have towards Dre.

On “Bang Bang,” Dre chose this song to be a message to the haters. He says that even though his city is changing and people are underestimating him, he hasn’t changed since his last album, and he will continue to release music and break records.

My personal favorite off of this album is “Forgot About Dre” featuring Eminem. Granted I am a bit biased as I’m a huge fan of Eminem, but this song is a masterpiece. I love Dre’s verse because it’s relatable to anyone who feels that they have dealt with fake people and fake friends who only use you and your success to gain something for themselves. Eminem’s verse on this song is absolutely amazing and I love the rhyme scheme.

This album and The Chronic are both described as a drug in the songs, and I couldn’t agree more. 2001 is an absolute masterpiece, and I hope that even with a new generation of rappers changing the game that it will remain the timeless classic that it is.