Ep 2. Out the Trunk: The Bay

In season 2 episode 2 of Hip-Hop Evolution, titled "Out the Trunk: The Bay," viewers are taken on a journey to explore the rise of hip-hop on the West Coast, specifically in the Bay Area of California.

Through interviews with key players and pioneers of Bay Area hip-hop such as Too Short, MC Hammer, E-40, and D'Wayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Toné!, the episode delves into the unique sound and culture that arose in this region during the 1980s and 1990s.

The episode begins by discussing the origins of Bay Area hip-hop, starting with the early days of radio DJ and promoter Dave "Davey D" Cook. Cook helped to create a platform for local artists to gain exposure and connect with audiences, laying the foundation for what would become the thriving Bay Area hip-hop scene.

As the episode progresses, viewers are introduced to some of the key artists who rose to fame during this time period. Too Short, one of the most influential figures in Bay Area hip-hop, talks about his early days as a teenager selling his music out of the trunk of his car. His unique style, which blended explicit lyrics with funky beats, helped to define the sound of Bay Area hip-hop and paved the way for future generations of artists.

MC Hammer, who would go on to become a mainstream superstar in the early 1990s, also shares his experiences from the early days of Bay Area hip-hop. He talks about the importance of staying true to oneself and the struggles he faced trying to break into the music industry.

Another major figure in the Bay Area hip-hop scene was E-40, who pioneered the "hyphy" sound which became popular in the early 2000s. Through interviews and archival footage, viewers get a sense of the energy and excitement that surrounded this movement, as well as the criticism it faced from more traditional hip-hop fans.

Overall, "Out the Trunk: The Bay" is a fascinating look at one of the most important and influential hip-hop scenes in the United States. Through interviews with key players and a deep dive into the history and culture of the Bay Area, viewers gain a better understanding of the unique contributions that this region has made to the world of hip-hop.