Explaining the album concept in an interview, The Game said it's based on his personal experiences growing up in Compton, California including the LA Riots, O. J. Simpson's murder trial and the Dream Team. Hip-hop artist Nas coached The Game in this aspect by speaking daily, listening to and sending back and forth tracks from the album. Long time collaborator and record producer Bongo is also described as having helped complete the album and providing production for the project. Talking about the album, Bongo describes it as having the approach of Golden age hip-hop in a way younger audiences can relate to and enjoy it.