AZ’s 1995 debut LP Doe or Die was one of the albums, at that time, that gave you a audio depiction that was reminiscent of a Mob Movie. It was filled with lyrics that embodied the mafia lifestyle and authentic Hip Hop beats courtesy of Pete Rock, Buckwild, L.E.S., Ski, and DR Period.
This album is sometimes considered a sequel or B-side to Nas’ Illmatic where AZ made his debut. It’s been considered a classic among Hip Hop circles since its release.
The gold-selling single “Sugar Hill” was produced by L.E.S. He used a raw, uncut, head-nodding sample of “Sugar Free” by Juicy. On it AZ was assisted by Miss Jones singing the background vocals and hook.
“Gimme Yours”, a Pete Rock-produced single, featured Nas on the hook. The song has always been considered one of the more memorable songs from AZ’s first LP.
“More Money, More Murder, More Homicide” also features Nas. Over a DR Period-produced banger that samples The O’Jays “Cry Together”, AZ and Nas craft an easy-to-visualize classic that unrolls right before you like a movie. Their chemistry is undoubtedly one of the greatest ever.
BET’s online documentary “#20YrsLtr: Featuring AZ’s ‘Doe or Die’” helped renew interest in this ’95 set that’s earned every second of attention it receives The complexity AZ employed to write his verses should be studied, as his word usage is truly a grammatical marvel.
Whether proclaiming he’s “Rather Unique” or advising “Your World Don’t Stop”, AZ’s story-driven debut is an un-erasable timestamp of greatness. It’s 12 tracks of brilliance by one of Hip Hop’s great literary masters.
With its raw lyricism and production, Doe or Die is a platinum classic that stays in rotation, and it’s still relevant today. | THIS ENT
[By Rube Ramon and Mr. Joe Walker]
On August 11, 2023, we will join Sixman in Grand Rapids, MI for HIP HOP 50Th Anniversary Music Fest live at top-rated venue The Pyramid Scheme!
Celebrating this cultural milestone, Sixman will close out a stacked lineup of Nappy Head Assassins, J.Rob, Manchild, Loudchief, Zero, Gwopped Up Speedy, Alfie Da Great, Huff the Goat, WUZEE, Sonny Ski, D.E.S., Sha Dow, Adrian Wright, Dj Ill One, DJ Kapp, Dj Seven Eightz, and DJ Kokn, with industry favorite MR. 1204 serving as host.
Sponsored by WYCE, NOXX and COOKIES GR, Wasted Brand Clothing, Debo Scotty (Power Moves Only), Vitale’s On Leonard, THIS ENT, and Feeding America (West Michigan), Sixman is encouraging attendees to bring a non-perishable food item to help feed the less fortunate in the community.
With this once-in-a-lifetime event Sixman and everyone involved are upholding the charitable nature of Hip Hop’s origin at 1520 Sedwick Ave in Bronx, NY fifty years ago.
Our team found Sixman’s work to be worthy of special recognition. We hope you do as well.
