We’re tweaking into a whole new era: one without the silky smooth vocals of Nate Dogg, who passed away yesterday at the age of 41 after years of severe health problems.
Dogg was one of the key elements in the rise of the West Coast G-Funk sound pioneered by Death Row Records in the early 1990s. Though overshadowed by such peers as Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg and Warren G, Nate was a critical participant in a number of major left-coast gangsta hits, including G’s “Regulate” and Dre’s iconic solo debut, 1992’s The Chronic.
Hale’s death was first reported by the Long Beach Press Telegram, which noted that his family announced his death on Tuesday. The cause of death was not announced at press time, but Hale had struggled with serious health issues recently, including suffering a massive stroke in 2007 that left him partially paralyzed and another the following year. A spokesperson for the singer could not be reached for comment at press time for further details on his passing. [MTV]
Rest in peace, Mr. Dogg, and thank you for “Regulate,” the smoothest song about shooting people and picking up women that ever existed. Regulators, mount up! The next stop is the Eastside funeral parlor.
