The greatest untold story in the history of hip-hop, this is the first-ever complete account of the scene, street-savvy stars, and daring record label that launched West Coast hip-hop into the American mainstream and produced the hits that dominated the ’80s and ’90s—with previously unseen material, photos, and exclusive interviews.WITH A FOREWORD BY B-REAL OF CYPRESS HILLIn 1987, hip-hop was at a tipping point: coastally, commercially, and...

WITH A FOREWORD BY B-REAL OF CYPRESS HILLIn 1987, hip-hop was at a tipping point: coastally, commercially, and creatively. New York City ruled the culture, while its hottest record label Def Jam was king. Yet out in LA, a new crew was ready to challenge for the crown, and their fresh spin would upend the industry as the decade reached its peak.Two Los Angeles dance club DJs, Matt Dike and Mike Ross, started their own independent label in Matt's cramped apar...