Death Row Records Complete Artist Roster

Coley Reed
Updated August 2, 2023 92.3K views

This list of the Death Row Records roster includes both past and present artists. If you're looking for any of these Death Row Records band's full discographies then click on their name and you can find them here on Ranker. The artists and bands on this list range across many genres, including pop, rap, rock, and electronic.

Every artist and rapper signed by Death Row Records is featured below, especially Snoop Dogg and Tupac Shakur.

So, who are the best Death Row Records bands? And which artists are signed by Death Row Records? Find out below.

  • In the early 90s, from the streets of Compton, rose a smooth-sounding duo known as 2nd II None. Comprised of cousins KK and Gangsta D, their unique blend of G-funk and lyrical prowess quickly cemented them into hip-hop history. They made heads turn with their self-titled debut album, showcasing their ability to masterfully combine laid-back grooves with hard-hitting rap lyrics. Their lasting impact on the West Coast hip-hop scene is a testament to the greatness they achieved while on Death Row Records.

  • Above the Law, a groundbreaking group hailing from Pomona, California, left an indelible mark on the hip-hop landscape through their innovative fusion of funk, gangsta rap, and social commentary. Led by the late, great Cold 187um, they pushed the boundaries of West Coast rap and influenced many up-and-coming artists in the scene. Their unforgettable albums like Livin' Like Hustlers and Uncle Sam's Curse continue to be celebrated for their powerful messages and timeless production. Above the Law remains a crucial element of the Death Row Records legacy, propelling gangsta rap to new heights.

  • Bad Azz, born as Jamarr Antonio Stamps, emerged as a formidable force in the West Coast hip-hop scene in the mid-'90s. Known for his distinctive voice and standout collaborations with the likes of Snoop Dogg and Tupac Shakur, he consistently demonstrated raw talent and uncompromising lyricism. With his debut solo album Word on tha Streets, Bad Azz solidified his status as one of the most talented and prolific rappers of his time. His untimely passing in 2019 left an immense void, but his contributions to the Death Row family remain immeasurable.

  • Big Pimpin' DeLemond

    Big Pimpin' DeLemond

    As one of the unsung heroes of West Coast hip-hop, Big Pimpin' DeLemond brought his distinct style to the Death Row camp in the late '90s. He possessed an uncanny ability to paint vivid pictures with his lyrics, making listeners feel as if they were right there with him. Though his time in the limelight was relatively brief, his contributions to tracks such as "Hoo Bangin'" showcased his natural talent and charisma. Big Pimpin' DeLemond's unique flavor and undeniable skills earned him a well-deserved spot among Death Row's elite.

  • Big Syke, a revered member of Thug Life and Outlawz, boasted an imposing presence both in stature and lyrical content. Throughout his tenure with Death Row, he consistently delivered hard-hitting verses and poignant street tales that resonated with fans worldwide. His collaborations with Tupac Shakur became the stuff of legends, showcasing the undeniable chemistry shared between the two artists. As a pivotal figure in West Coast hip-hop, Big Syke cemented his legacy as one of the most influential rappers in the Death Row family.

  • Though Bow Wow's time with Death Row Records was brief, his impact on the label is undeniable. As a protégé of Snoop Dogg, his youthful exuberance and undeniable charisma invigorated the label at a crucial juncture. Making waves as a child prodigy, Bow Wow showcased his versatile rhyming abilities and innate star quality that would lead him to a successful solo career. Despite his brief stint with Death Row, Bow Wow's raw talent and captivating presence enriched the label's legacy and contributed to its storied history.

  • Butch Cassidy's velvety smooth singing voice and penchant for delivering unforgettable hooks made him a highly sought-after collaborator in the Death Row Records family. As a frequent collaborator with heavy-hitters like Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, and Warren G, Cassidy played an integral role in shaping the sound of the West Coast in the late '90s and early 2000s. His soulful melodies and irresistible charm continue to captivate fans today, solidifying his status as one of the most iconic artists associated with the label.

  • CJ Mac's gritty storytelling and no-nonsense lyrical content distinguished him as one of Death Row's most authentic voices. Hailing from the streets of South-Central Los Angeles, he made waves with his debut album True Game, showcasing his ability to artfully convey the complex realities of street life. Although his tenure with the label was relatively short-lived, CJ Mac's contributions to the Death Row legacy are both influential and timeless in their own right.

  • Crooked I

    Crooked I

    Crooked I, now known as KXNG Crooked, remains one of the most respected and skilled lyricists ever to emerge from the Death Row roster. As a member of the hip-hop supergroup Slaughterhouse, and boasting a prolific solo career, his technical prowess and rapid-fire flow left an indelible mark on the hip-hop landscape. Although he never released a full-length album with Death Row, his various collaborations and mixtapes made it abundantly clear that Crooked I was a force to be reckoned with, elevating the label's reputation for harboring some of the most gifted emcees in the game.

  • Danny Boy's angelic voice and soulful performances positioned him as a standout R&B talent within the Death Row family. His stunning vocal range and emotive delivery ensured that he was a highly sought-after collaborator during his time with the label, appearing on numerous classic tracks. Though he faced personal and professional challenges, Danny Boy's incredible talent and unforgettable presence solidified his place among the pantheon of Death Row greats.

  • Daz Dillinger

    Daz Dillinger

    As one-half of the legendary duo Tha Dogg Pound, Daz Dillinger's contributions to Death Row Records cannot be overstated. Not only was he a gifted rapper with a distinct drawl, but he also emerged as one of the premier producers during the golden age of West Coast hip-hop. Crafting anthems for the likes of Snoop Dogg and Tupac Shakur, Daz's signature G-funk sound became synonymous with the Death Row era. His undeniable talent, both behind the mic and the mixing board, cements him as a true icon within the label's storied history.

  • DJ Quik's unparalleled production skills, coupled with his adept lyrical abilities, made him a vital force within the Death Row family. As one of the forefathers of West Coast hip-hop, DJ Quik played an essential role in establishing the G-funk sound that defined the genre during its heyday. His vibrant beats and intricate instrumentals made him a highly sought-after collaborator for some of the label's biggest stars. DJ Quik's lasting influence on the sound and style of Death Row Records is both undeniable and unforgettable.

  • Undoubtedly one of the most influential figures in hip-hop history, Dr. Dre's tenure at Death Row Records produced some of the most memorable and groundbreaking tracks the world has ever known. As a founding member of the label, Dre's innovative production techniques and crisp drum patterns set the stage for what would become a global phenomenon. His work on albums such as The Chronic and Snoop Dogg's Doggystyle not only defined the G-funk sound but also propelled Death Row to legendary status. His departure from the label marked a turning point in its history, yet his contributions remain an integral part of the Death Row legacy.

  • As one of the founding members of Outlawz, E.D.I. Amin's association with Death Row Records was marked by his close relationship with legendary rapper Tupac Shakur. Boasting a smooth flow and thought-provoking lyrics, E.D.I. Amin's contributions to tracks like "Hit 'Em Up" and "Made N****z" solidified his position as a key player in the label's storied history. His unyielding loyalty to Tupac and the Outlawz, even after the collapse of Death Row, serves as a testament to the bonds formed during the label's most tumultuous years.

  • Eric Collins, also known as RBX, brought a unique style and fierce lyricism to the Death Row roster. As a cousin of Snoop Dogg and a member of the legendary group The D.O.C., Collins quickly made a name for himself with his unapologetic rhymes and raw storytelling. His debut album, The RBX Files, showcased his inimitable flow and ability to navigate complex social issues through his lyrics. Despite a short-lived tenure at Death Row, Eric Collins' contributions remain significant within the label's rich history.

  • As one of the few female rappers on the Death Row roster, Gina Longo, better known as Storm, proved herself as a formidable force within the label's family. A member of the Outlawz, she demonstrated her razor-sharp lyrical skills and versatile flow on tracks such as "Initiated." Though her time with Death Row was marked by great personal loss, including the death of her mentor and friend Tupac Shakur, Gina Longo's contributions to the label left an indelible mark on its legacy.

  • Hussein Fatal's tenure at Death Row Records was defined by his unwavering loyalty to Tupac Shakur and his fellow Outlawz members. With his aggressive, guttural delivery and raw, unfiltered lyrics, Hussein Fatal stood out as one of the most compelling voices within the label's family. His appearances on classic tracks like "Hit 'Em Up" showcased his fearless spirit and undeniably powerful presence. Though his life was tragically cut short in 2015, Hussein Fatal's legacy lives on through his unforgettable contributions to Death Row Records.

  • Jesse Dangerously's time with Death Row Records was marked by his unique blend of humor, wit, and insightful lyricism. Though not a household name like many of his labelmates, Dangerously's unconventional style and clever wordplay set him apart from the typical West Coast sound. With tracks like "Outsmarted" showcasing his lyrical dexterity and penchant for self-deprecation, Jesse Dangerously's contributions to Death Row added a refreshing twist to the label's catalog.

  • As a prolific producer and songwriter, Johnny "J" played an instrumental role in shaping the sound of Death Row Records during its heyday. Collaborating closely with rap icon Tupac Shakur, he crafted unforgettable tracks like "Pour Out a Little Liquor" and "How Do U Want It." His innovative sampling techniques and ear for smooth, catchy melodies made him one of the most sought-after producers within the Death Row family. Johnny "J"'s contributions to the label live on through the countless classic tracks he created.

  • Although an unexpected addition to the Death Row roster, British soul singer Joss Stone brought an infusion of raw talent and fresh energy to the label. With her powerful vocals and emotional delivery, Stone demonstrated her versatility alongside hip-hop heavyweights like Snoop Dogg and Kurupt. Her time with Death Row was brief, but Joss Stone's undeniable talent and genre-defying collaborations helped to diversify the label's musical landscape.

  • K-Solo's tenure with Death Row Records showcased his witty lyricism, rapid-fire flow, and unmistakable East Coast influence. Despite hailing from New York, K-Solo quickly became a welcome addition to the predominantly West Coast label, bringing with him a unique flavor that complemented the G-funk sound. With tracks like "Letterman" and "Your Mom's in My Business," K-Solo's contributions to Death Row added depth and diversity to the label's impressive catalog.

  • As a member of the Outlawz and a close associate of Tupac Shakur, Kastro contributed his smooth flow and captivating storytelling abilities to the Death Row legacy. His presence on tracks such as "Hail Mary" and "Made N****z" showcased his unparalleled chemistry with Tupac and the other Outlawz members. Though he eventually moved away from the music industry, Kastro's contributions to Death Row and the hip-hop culture at large remain significant and unforgettable.

  • Ken Lawson, also known as Ken L, brought a rare combination of acting and musical talent to the Death Row family. With his silky-smooth delivery and undeniable charisma, Lawson demonstrated his versatility in both the studio and onscreen. Though his time with the label was brief, Ken Lawson's presence within the Death Row ranks highlighted the label's knack for nurturing multifaceted talent.

  • As a vital member of Tha Dogg Pound and an extraordinary solo artist, Kurupt's contributions to Death Row Records are nothing short of legendary. With his razor-sharp lyricism and relentless flow, he emerged as one of the West Coast's most formidable emcees, consistently delivering timeless verses on tracks like "New York, New York" and "Ain't No Fun." Kurupt's indelible impact on the label and the hip-hop genre as a whole cements him as one of Death Row's all-time greats.

  • The L.B.C. Crew, made up of members Tray Deee, Bad Azz, and Techniec, brought their Long Beach City roots and undeniable chemistry to the Death Row roster. As protégés of Snoop Dogg, their distinctive sound and hard-hitting lyricism showcased the depth of talent emerging from the West Coast at the time. Though their highly anticipated debut album never saw an official release, the L.B.C. Crew's impact on the Death Row family remains significant and lasting.

  • Lil C-Style's time with Death Row Records was characterized by his smooth flow and strong ties to the Long Beach community. As a close affiliate of Snoop Dogg and Tha Dogg Pound, he contributed to the distinctive West Coast sound that dominated the rap scene during the label's golden era. While his tenure at Death Row may have been brief, Lil C-Style's undeniable talent and memorable collaborations solidified his place among the label's most respected artists.

  • Lil' Half Dead's laid-back delivery and breezy storytelling abilities made him a perfect fit for the G-funk sound that defined Death Row's heyday. With his debut album The Dead Has Arisen, he demonstrated an uncanny ability to evoke the essence of West Coast living through his lyrics and smooth instrumentals. Although his time with the label was relatively short-lived, Lil' Half Dead's contributions to the Death Row legacy remain both influential and memorable.

  • As one-third of the iconic R&B group TLC, Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes brought her fierce energy, unmistakable style, and incredible talent to the Death Row family. Though she never released a solo album under the label, her presence within its ranks showcased the versatility and star power the label possessed. Tragically cut down in her prime, Lisa Lopes' contributions to music, both within and outside Death Row, continue to inspire and captivate fans worldwide.

  • British R&B singer Mark Morrison brought his silky-smooth vocals and international appeal to the Death Row family during his brief tenure with the label. Known for his global smash hit "Return of the Mack," Morrison's distinctive voice and undeniable charm added a fresh dynamic to the predominantly hip-hop focused label. Despite the brevity of his time with Death Row, Mark Morrison's unique contributions to the label's musical landscape continue to be celebrated by fans around the world.

  • As one of the most iconic artists in hip-hop history, MC Hammer's affiliation with Death Row Records surprised many fans. Known for his energetic stage presence and dance-infused tracks, Hammer brought a newfound level of mainstream exposure to the label. With his unmistakable charisma and penchant for creating party anthems, MC Hammer's presence within the Death Row family showcased the label's ability to embrace diverse talent and genres during its storied history.