A full decade has passed since the death of Eric “Eazy-E” Wright, the influential rapper that helped pioneer the subgenre of gangsta rap. The Game has revealed his plans for remembering the fellow Compton resident, who personally affected him at an early age.
“The 10th anniversary, the thing that I’m going to do is go to the gravesite by myself, not bringing anybody with me, and I’m going to say my peace with God and thank Eazy for what he’s done for my city,” The Game told AllHipHop.com.
According to public record, Eazy-Z died at the age of 31 due to complications with AIDS. Had he lived, he would be 40 today. During his life, Eazy became the prototype of the hustler-turned-businessman, a model followed by the likes of Master P and Jay-Z. In the 80’s and 90’s, he managed to sell multi-platinum units as a solo artist and with NWA, but never had the commercial outlets readily available today.
The Game has a pronounced liking for NWA, the seminal group that Eazy founded and he has the group name tattooed over his chest. He’s also recorded “My Confession” with Lil’ Eazy, the rapper’s son who is signed to Virgin Records. Additionally, Game and the late “thugsta” were paired on “Still Cruisin,’” which was produced by Red Spyda.
But, Eazy-E was more than just a rapper to Game.
“[He influenced] me as a rap artist, and [he was] a father figure to me growing up. He was a father figure to a lot of young Black kids who are now of age,” Game continued.
March 26, 1995 is a day that many will remember and Game is no different. The 25-year-old lyricist stated that he’ll trying to help man the legacy of Eric Wright as far into the future as he can.
“We all miss Eazy. My memorial to Eazy… like I would carry NWA as far as I can,” he said.
In related news, a CD/DVD package called “Eternal E: The Best Of Eazy-E – Gangsta Memorial Edition” is slated to drop Aug. 30 as the rapper’s 41st birthday (Sept. 7) comes around.
R.I.P. Eric “Eazy-E” Wright (1964-1995)