Snoop Dogg. Tupac Shakur. Dr. Dre. These names conjure up a lot of different feelings and beliefs depending on one’s background, birthplace, and age. They are all hip hop superstars, legendary rappers who came to prominence during a time when the genre wasn’t the quick route to fame and fortune that it is seen as today. They all helped create and put their stamp on this thing we call rap music. Beside them, though, just a little outside of the brightest part of the spotlight, stood a seemingly quiet young man with a distinct, soulful voice. This man collaborated with the others and played a major part in catapulting each of them to success at the beginning of their careers. His name is Nathaniel Hale. To the world, he is known as Nate Dogg and he passed away yesterday, March 15, 2011. He was only 41.
