Eric Lynn Wright, A.K.A. Eazy-E, was an American rapper and hip-hop pioneer, born on September 7, 1964. Wright was the leader of the group N.W.A. and propelled West Coast and gangsta rap into mainstream media. Hence, calling him the “godfather of gangsta rap” is accurate. Eazy-E’s career dates back to 1987 as the group’s debut album dropped the following year. He was a driven and talented rapper who created a legacy before passing away in 1995. Eazy-E will always be remembered as an icon. So join us to celebrate his birthday today!
Fast Facts
Full Name:
Eric Lynn Wright
Nickname:
Eazy-E
Birth date:
September 7, 1964
Death date:
March 26, 1995 (age 30)
Zodiac Sign:
Virgo
Height:
5' 2"
Net Worth:
$50 million
Background
Eric Lynn Wright was a visionary rapper who pushed the boundaries with his music. His talent, funny disposition, and character are a few reasons he’s still revered today. Eazy-E was born on September 7, 1964, to postal worker Richard Wright, and grade-school administrator Kathie Wright. Wright was of African-American descent and he was born in Compton, California, and boy did he let the world know this. He never liked high school, so he dropped out in the 10th grade. Life outside school was rough, so he pulled through by selling drugs, particularly marijuana. He began recording during the mid-1980s and created the acclaimed label Ruthless Records with Jerry Heller in 1986.
N.W.A. was formed around the same time. The group members included Arabian Prince, Eazy-E, Dr. Dre, and Ice Cube. DJ Yella and MC Ren joined later. The group released their debut studio album, “Straight Outta Compton,” in August 1988. This was their most controversial album for many reasons, including getting a warning letter from an F.B.I. agent for a track on the album. The album did very well on the charts and is one of hip-hop’s most popular albums. Despite being part of a group, Eazy-E released his debut album in November 1988. The album was called “Eazy-Duz-It,” and it was produced by Dr. Dre and other members of N.W.A. “Eazy-Duz-It” sold over 2,5 million copies in the U.S. and peaked at the number 41 spot on the Billboard 200 chart.
N.W.A.’s success was short-lived. Internal disputes ravaged the group, causing Ice Cube to leave in 1989. As a four-man group, N.W.A. released an E.P., “100 Miles and Runnin,” in 1990 and a second studio album in 1991. After the release of their second album, several financial squabbles incited the disbandment of N.W.A. Eazy-E feuded with Ice Cube and Dr. Dre on several records between 1991 and 1993. However, he made amends with his former group members before his demise on March 26, 1995. Eazy-E is survived by his wife, Tomica Woods, whom he married 12 days before he died, and 11 children.
Career timeline
The group releases “Straight Outta Compton.”
He releases “Eazy-Duz-It.”
N.W.A. releases their second album, and final studio album as a unit.
He releases his last E.P., “It’s On (Dr. Dre), 187um Killa,” a diss to Dr. Dre in response to his debut solo album, “The Chronic.”
Why We Love Eazy-E
He was fearless
Eazy-E was a rapper who feared nothing. Despite being warned not to perform some of his more controversial songs, he did it anyway.
He was talented
His talent was undeniable. He created a legacy for the West Coast with his rapping skills and talents.
His built a reputation
Not many 62-inch individuals can command the respect that Eazy-E did. His charisma and fearless nature created a reputation for him.
5 Surprising Facts
He received his G.E.D.
Although he dropped out of high school, he later received his G.E.D.
His thug persona was a facade
Eazy-E wasn’t a thug, he only assumed that persona to gain respect, certain privileges, reverence, and protection.
His cousin’s death gave him perspective
After his cousin was shot and killed, he decided to make an honest living.
President Bush invited him to lunch
He was invited to a Senatorial Inner Circle lunch hosted by President George. W. Bush.
A large family
He fathered 11 children with eight women in his lifetime.
Eazy-E FAQs
What was Eazy-E’s cause of death?
The rapper died of H.I.V./AIDS.
How old would Eazy-E be today on his birthday?
He would be 58 years old today in 2022.
Who are Eazy-E’s daughters?
His four daughters are Erin Bria, Daijah, Erica, and Raven Wright.
Eazy-E’s birthday dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2024 | September 7 | Saturday |
2025 | September 7 | Sunday |
2026 | September 7 | Monday |
2027 | September 7 | Tuesday |
2028 | September 7 | Thursday |