Eight Gigs: Dru Down

Fri., Nov. 6, 8 p.m., Blue Lamp, $20

photo by Sonny Gill

Oakland's Dru Down pioneered the '90s sound in the Bay Area with his mackadelic style and hit single “Pimp of the Year.” Down with legends like the Luniz, E-40 and Tupac Shakur, Dru Down made a name for himself on the independent success of Explicit Game in 1994 and Can You Feel Me in 1996. He appeared on Tupac's single “It's All About You” and has released nine albums, including Chronicles of a Pimp in 2010. A true original who was sporting locks before Kat Williams, Dru Down's catalog defined the Bay alongside Rappin 4 Tay and Mac Dre. 1400 Alhambra Blvd, www.facebook.com/Dru-Down-106166169475080.