What would the West Coast have been without Nate Dogg hooks? They were the soundtrack of a generation. This morning the Hip-Hop world was rocked by the death of yet another great, the “soulful gangsta” Nate Dogg.
The California rapper whose real name is Nathaniel D. Hale, died at the age of 41. The news was first reported by Long Beach, Calif. newspaper the Press-Telegram, which did not specify the cause of death; TMZ has since confirmed the report.
After showcasing his laid-back rapping/singing delivery on Dr. Dre’s classic debut album “The Chronic,” Nate Dogg was featured on Warren G’s 1994 single “Regulate,” which peaked at No. 2 on the Hot 100. The song was the first of a number of hip-hop singles, including Dr. Dre’s “The Next Episode,” Fabolous’ “Can’t Deny It,” Ludacris’ “Area Codes” and Eminem‘s “Shake That,” to feature a vocal hook from the rapper. Nate Dogg’s most recent solo album, “Nate Dogg,” was released in 2008.
Nate will be sadly missed by all in the Hip-Hop community, and Rap Ireland would like to extend condolences to his family and close friends.
RIP Nate Dogg
