Claim: Eazy-E's group released their first single in 1987.

Eric Lynn Wright -LRB- September 7 , 1964March 26 , 1995 -RRB- , better known by his stage name Eazy-E , was an American rapper who performed solo and in the hip hop group N.W.A. Wright is affectionately called `` The Godfather of Gangsta rap '' . He was born to Richard and Kathie Wright in Compton , California . After dropping out of high school in the tenth grade , he supported himself primarily by selling drugs before founding Ruthless Records and becoming a rapper . Arabian Prince , Eazy-E , Dr. Dre and Ice Cube formed N.W.A. . After DJ Yella and MC Ren joined the group , N.W.A released their debut single Panic Zone . In 1988 , they released their most controversial album , Straight Outta Compton . The group released two more albums and then disbanded after Eazy released Dr. Dre from his contract .   Eazy 's main influences included 1970s funk groups , contemporary rappers , and comedians . When reviewing Eazy 's albums , many critics noted his unique overall style , with Steve Huey of the All Music Guide remarking : `` While his technical skills as a rapper were never the greatest , his distinctive delivery ... over-the-top lyrics , and undeniable charisma made him a star . ''