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E-40 – The Hall Of Game – Double Rapper\’s Ball Red Galaxy Vinyl Record

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E-40 – The Hall Of Game – Double Rapper\’s Ball Red Galaxy Vinyl Record

VMP Hip-Hop Record of the Month for January 2022.

Vinyl Me, Please exclusive pressing.

VMP Exclusive Vinyl Edition

Lacquers cut by Barry Grint, Alchemy Mastering at AIR

Pressed on exclusive 2LP Rapper\’s Ball Red Galaxy Vinyl

Listening notes booklet by David Ma

VMP Essentials

Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic

The Hall of Game is the third studio album by American rapper E-40, released on October 29, 1996, through Jive Records and his own label, Sick Wid It Records. Known for his distinctive slang, unique flow, and innovative contributions to West Coast hip-hop, E-40 (real name Earl Stevens) continued to build on his reputation as one of the most influential figures in the Bay Area rap scene with this album. \”The Hall of Game\” features a mix of hard-hitting beats, street narratives, and collaborations with prominent West Coast and Southern rap artists.

The album solidified E-40\’s place in the hip-hop world, particularly for his role in pioneering the hyphy movement, and was praised for its originality, lyrical creativity, and versatility. The production, largely handled by Bay Area producers like Mike Mosley, Sam Bostic, and Studio Ton, gave the album a signature sound that blends funk and G-funk influences with E-40’s streetwise storytelling.

By the time The Hall of Game was released, E-40 was already a major figure in the West Coast rap scene, especially in the Bay Area, where his influence was undeniable. Following the success of his first two albums, \”Federal\” (1993) and \”In a Major Way\” (1995), which established his signature style, E-40 continued to expand his sound with \”The Hall of Game.\”

This album came at a time when West Coast rap was still dominated by the G-funk sound popularized by artists like Dr. Dre, but E-40’s style was more aligned with the emerging hyphy movement, characterized by uptempo beats, energetic rhythms, and a streetwise, party-oriented vibe. The Hall of Game also featured collaborations with prominent figures from different regions, including the South, highlighting E-40’s ability to bridge gaps between regional sounds.

The Hall of Game features a mix of West Coast G-funk, Bay Area hyphy, and Southern influences. The album\’s themes revolve around street life, hustling, and survival, with E-40’s characteristic wordplay and clever use of slang adding depth to his narratives.

\”Record Haters\” – The album kicks off with this track, which sets the tone for E-40’s confident, unapologetic approach. It’s a hard-hitting opener with a funky beat, showcasing his unique delivery and street-savvy lyrics.

\”Rapper\’s Ball\” (featuring Too Short and K-Ci) – One of the standout tracks, \”Rapper’s Ball\” features fellow Bay Area legend Too Short and singer K-Ci from Jodeci. The smooth, G-funk-inspired production and catchy hook made it a hit, and the song became one of E-40’s most popular tracks, reaching the Billboard Hot 100. The song reflects the glamorous side of rap life, with both E-40 and Too Short celebrating their success.

\”Things\’ll Never Change\” (featuring Bo-Roc) – A more reflective track, \”Things\’ll Never Change\” addresses the harsh realities of life in the streets, touching on themes like violence, poverty, and systemic inequality. The melancholic production and E-40’s introspective lyrics give the track a serious, sobering tone.

\”Million Dollar Spot\” (featuring 2Pac and B-Legit) – This collaboration with 2Pac and E-40’s cousin B-Legit is one of the album’s highlights. The song’s hard-hitting beat and gritty street narrative reflect the hustle and grind of making money in tough environments. 2Pac’s presence on the track adds a sense of urgency and gravitas, and the collaboration remains one of the album’s most memorable moments.

\”The Story\” – A standout solo track where E-40 flexes his storytelling skills, \”The Story\” narrates a tale of betrayal, survival, and the consequences of living in the streets. E-40’s vivid descriptions and unique slang make the track a gripping listen, while the laid-back production adds to its intensity.

\”I Wanna Thank You\” (featuring Suga-T) – A smoother, more soulful track, \”I Wanna Thank You\” features E-40’s sister Suga-T on the hook, adding a heartfelt tone to the song. The track is a message of gratitude for the people who have helped E-40 along the way, mixing personal reflection with the album’s otherwise street-focused themes.

\”Ring It\” – A bouncy, club-friendly track, \”Ring It\” showcases E-40’s playful side. The production has a more energetic, party vibe, making it a track that resonated with fans of the Bay Area’s hyphy movement.

\”The Hall of Game\” – The title track is a mission statement of sorts, with E-40 reflecting on his rise to prominence in the rap game. The song’s slick production and confident lyrics exemplify the album’s themes of hustle and success.

The Hall of Game is a multifaceted album that explores the dualities of street life—success and struggle, celebration and hardship. E-40 uses his signature wordplay and inventive slang to craft songs that feel both deeply rooted in West Coast rap traditions and forward-thinking, especially in his contributions to the hyphy sound that would later dominate the Bay Area.

The album’s production is a mix of G-funk and Bay Area bounce, with smooth, laid-back beats often layered with funky basslines, synthesizers, and heavy percussion. E-40’s unique flow—fast, unpredictable, and conversational—blends perfectly with these instrumentals, giving the album a dynamic energy.

Lyrically, The Hall of Game touches on themes of success, loyalty, and survival in the streets. Tracks like \”Million Dollar Spot\” and \”Things\’ll Never Change\” are more serious, while songs like \”Rapper’s Ball\” and \”Ring It\” offer moments of celebration and fun.

The Hall of Game debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and was certified Gold by the RIAA. The album was praised for its mix of slick production and E-40’s distinct style, which set him apart from other West Coast rappers of the time. Critics lauded the album’s versatility, noting E-40’s ability to switch between party tracks, reflective songs, and street anthems.

While the album wasn’t as commercially successful as some of the mainstream West Coast releases of the era, it helped cement E-40’s influence in the Bay Area and the larger rap scene. Tracks like \”Rapper’s Ball\” and \”Million Dollar Spot\” became fan favorites, and the collaboration with 2Pac remains a key moment in the album’s legacy.

The Hall of Game is often considered one of E-40’s most important albums, showcasing his ability to balance mainstream appeal with underground credibility. The album helped solidify his status as a pioneer of the Bay Area sound, particularly in his contributions to the hyphy movement, which would gain more prominence in the following decade.

For fans of West Coast rap and those interested in the evolution of Bay Area hip-hop, The Hall of Game is a defining moment in E-40’s career. It’s a testament to his innovation, lyrical creativity, and lasting impact on the genre.

Track Listing
Record Haters
Rappers\’ Ball
Growing Up
Million Dollar Spot
Mack Minister
I Wanna Thank You
The Story
My Drinking Club
Ring It
Pimp Talk
Keep Pimpin\’
I Like What You Do To Me
Things\’ll Never Change
Circumstances
It Is What It Is
Smebbin\’

roundflatStoreE-40 - The Hall Of Game - Double Rapper\'s Ball Red Galaxy Vinyl Record VMP Hip-Hop Record of the Month for January 2022. Vinyl Me, Please exclusive pressing. VMP Exclusive Vinyl Edition Lacquers cut by Barry Grint, Alchemy Mastering at AIR Pressed on exclusive 2LP Rapper\'s Ball Red Galaxy Vinyl Listening notes booklet by...Discover the ultimate destination for punk records, indie vinyl, alternative CDs, and metal cassettes since 1992.

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