Eazy E

Eric Lynn Wright, better known by his stage name Eazy-E, was an American rapper fondly called the "The Godfather of Gangsta rap" by his fans. He was a popular solo performer who also performed in the hip hop group N.W.A. Known for his unique style of delivery, over-the-top lyrics, and raw sex appeal, Eazy-E was indeed a rap-star beyond comparison. Born into an impoverished family in Compton, California, his early dream was to make it big and become rich no matter what. He dropped out of school in his mid-teens and became involved in the drug business that was flourishing in his notoriously violent neighborhood. Charming and determined, he earned a lot of money through his illegal activities and eventually decided to embark on a more respectable career as a rapper. Naturally talented, he started recording songs and soon formed a partnership with his friend Jerry Heller to form Ruthless Records. Deeply influenced by the contemporary funk groups, rappers and comedians, he went on to develop his own unique style that made him much popular among the masses. He was enroute to becoming one of the most successful rappers ever when it was discovered that he suffered from AIDS. He breathed his last just weeks after his diagnosis, aged 31