The Chronic [Intro]
Dr. Dre
Welcome to Death Row: The Chronic [Intro] by Dr. Dre
Dr. Dre's "The Chronic [Intro]" serves as a powerful and unapologetic introduction to his seminal album, 'The Chronic.' This track is a declaration of allegiance to Death Row Records and a bold statement of the West Coast rap scene's dominance in the early '90s. The lyrics are raw and unfiltered, reflecting the gritty reality of life in Compton and the fierce loyalty among Dre and his peers.
The song opens with a dedication to those who have been loyal from the beginning, setting a tone of camaraderie and respect. Dre's mention of 'Death Row Records' and 'N*ggaz wit attitudes' pays homage to his roots with N.W.A. and his new affiliation with Death Row. The language is aggressive and confrontational, emphasizing the crew's readiness to defend their reputation and handle any challenges that come their way. This is not just about making music; it's about asserting dominance and maintaining street credibility.
Throughout the intro, Dre and his collaborators, including Snoop Doggy Dogg, express disdain for their rivals and those who have wronged them. The repeated references to violence and street justice underscore the harsh realities of their environment. The line 'Protected by n*ggaz wit big d*cks, A.K.'s, and 187 skills' is a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of violence in their lives. Despite the harshness, there's a sense of pride and unity that shines through, as they celebrate their successes and the strength of their community.
The outro of the track is a direct attack on former associates, specifically targeting Jerry Heller and Eazy-E, with whom Dre had a falling out. This personal vendetta adds another layer of intensity to the song, making it clear that 'The Chronic' is not just an album but a statement of independence and defiance. The raw emotion and unfiltered language capture the essence of the West Coast rap scene during this era, making 'The Chronic [Intro]' a powerful opening to one of hip-hop's most influential albums.