The Arabian Prince

• Inglewood
• |
• California

The Arabian Prince

The Arabian Prince, whose real name is Mik Lezan, is a notable figure in the early West Coast hip-hop scene, particularly known for his pioneering work in the electro and gangsta rap subgenres. Born and raised in Inglewood, California, Arabian Prince started his career in the 1980s and quickly became a key player in the burgeoning Los Angeles hip-hop scene.

Arabian Prince began his music career as a DJ and producer, influenced by the burgeoning electro scene. His early work was characterized by synthesizer-driven beats and a futuristic sound, which was relatively unique in hip-hop at the time. In the mid-1980s, Arabian Prince became a founding member of N.W.A (Niggaz Wit Attitudes), a group that would go on to revolutionize gangsta rap. Though his tenure with N.W.A was brief, his contribution to the group’s early work helped shape the sound that would define West Coast hip-hop.

After leaving N.W.A, Arabian Prince embarked on a solo career. He released several albums and singles that showcased his unique style, blending electro music with rap. His solo work, including albums like “Brother Arab” and singles such as “Strange Life” and “It Ain’t Tough,” further solidified his reputation as an innovative and influential figure in hip-hop.

Arabian Prince’s music was ahead of its time, incorporating elements of electro-funk and techno into a hip-hop framework. His style was marked by the use of drum machines, synthesizers, and vocoders, setting the stage for future developments in hip-hop and electronic music.

Although Arabian Prince may not have achieved the same level of mainstream recognition as some of his N.W.A counterparts, his influence on the evolution of hip-hop, particularly on the West Coast, is undeniable. He paved the way for the integration of electronic sounds into hip-hop and influenced a generation of producers and artists.

Beyond his music career, Arabian Prince has been involved in various ventures, including technology and multimedia. His diverse interests and continuous innovation reflect his forward-thinking approach, both as an artist and as an entrepreneur.

In summary, The Arabian Prince stands as a pioneering figure in hip-hop, whose contributions to the genre have been both groundbreaking and influential. His work not only helped shape the sound of West Coast hip-hop but also expanded the possibilities of what hip-hop music could encompass.