10 Perfect Music Albums That Defined The 90s

Despite the tragic deaths of Biggie and 2Pac, the '90s saw hip hop at its musical best, reaching its pinocle, both on the East and West Coasts. This was the decade when hip hop broke into the mainstream, to become as widely celebrated as rock.

With power in numbers, and a truly unique production technique - courtesy of the one and only RZA - Wu Tang's debut was a landmark of East Coast hip hop. It was far grittier and rawer sounding then the likes of Tribe Called Quest, who utilised a more mellow, jazz-influenced style. This was the sound of the streets, it was laced with aggression, humour and defiance, and it was damn good.

The first half of the record was a constant stream of no nonsense hardcore hip hop, but around the thirty minute mark, listeners were treated to C.R.E.A.M. Driven by a piano sample from the Charmels, it's one of the most iconic examples of early '90s hip hop. Hot on its heals was Method Man's self-titled track, introducing the world to one of the most distinctive voices in rap. And, let's not forget the Wendy Rene sample in Tearz - it was gold. If you could only listen to one '90s hip hop album for the rest of your life, Wu Tang's debut would be a strong contender.