Compton’s Most Wanted

Compton's Most Wanted, also known as CMW, played a significant role in popularizing early-'90s West Coast gangsta rap alongside N.W.A. Led by MC Eiht and the Unknown DJ, the group's laid-back gangsta ballads emphasized '70s soul motifs and reflective lyrics, with hits like "Growin' Up in the Hood" from the Boyz n the Hood soundtrack. After CMW's peak, Eiht pursued a successful solo career, reuniting briefly with the group in the early 2000s for a comeback album and best-of collection.

Formed in 1987, CMW comprised MCs Eiht and Chill MC, DJ Mike T, and producers DJ Slip and the Unknown DJ. Their debut album, It's a Compton Thang (1990), along with hits like "Growin' Up in the Hood," helped them reach commercial success with albums like Straight Checkn 'Em (1991) and Music to Driveby (1992). Eiht's solo success, including acting in Menace II Society (1993) and releasing We Come Strapped (1994), solidified his superstar status before reuniting with CMW for Represent (2000) and a best-of album in 2001, followed by subsequent solo endeavors.