Look At This Short Timeline In Death Row Records' Loaded History
Death Row Records has a long history of signing some of the most popular gangsta rap artists of the '90s. Some would argue that Death Row popularized gangsta rap music. Below you can find a brief history of the record label's roster and a few pivotal moments in the label's success.
1991
Death Row Records is formed by Marion "Suge" Knight, almost immediately becoming a success.
1992
After breaking ties with N.W.A., Dr. Dre signs to Suge Knight's record label to produce his first solo album, The Chronic, which heavily featured his protege Snoop Dogg and the core roster of artists.
1993
Waiting his time, Snoop Dogg releases his debut album, Doggystyle, adding the success of the label.
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1995
Charismatic newbie Tupac signs a record deal and joins the ranks of the Death Row family.
1996
Dr. Dre leaves Death Row amid a great deal of controversy, not taking any of his music with him.
1996
On September 7, 1996, Tupac was gunned down in a drive-by shooting — a huge loss for the hip-hop community.
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2001
Suge Knight signs TLC member Lisa "Lefteye" Lopez to Death Row Records ushering in a new generation of Death Row artists. She assumes the name N.I.N.A (New Identity Not Applicable) and her second solo album gets canceled due to her untimely death in 2002.
2006
Both Suge Knight and Death Row Records file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
2009
In January 2009, Death Row is auctioned off to entertainment development company WIDEawake for only $18.
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