Draft:Temporary insanity (album)

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Temporary Insanity
Studio album by Eazy-E
Released	January 29, 1993 (planned, unreleased)
Recorded	1990–1993
Studio	Audio Achievements Los Angeles, California
Genre	West Coast hip hop, Gangsta rap, Horrorcore
Length	95:03 (total for both discs)
Label	Ruthless Records Priority Records
Producer	DJ Yella Dr. Dre Torcha Chamba Den Gale Pose Cold 187um DJ U-Neek Dr. Jam Bobcat Paperboy Bootsy Collins Naughty by Nature
Eazy-E chronology
5150: Home 4 tha Sick (1992) Temporary Insanity (1993) It's On (Dr. Dre) 187um Killa (1993)

Temporary Insanity is the second studio album by American rapper Eazy-E, intended for release on January 29, 1993. This album, initially planned as a groundbreaking double disc, intended to surprise Dr.Dre. after the groups fallout. The double album was ultimately shelved, leaving a lasting impact on Eazy-E's legacy and the evolution of gangsta rap. Despite its cancellation, many tracks from this project were later incorporated into the posthumous compilation album Str8 Off Tha Streetz of Muthaphukkin Compton, which further emphasizes its significance in the hip-hop landscape.

Background

Following the breakup of N.W.A, Eazy-E faced numerous challenges, including financial struggles and the need to adapt to a rapidly changing music scene dominated by the emerging G-funk sound. Eazy-E sought to solidify his solo career and return to prominence with Temporary Insanity, which was initially envisioned as a response to his life experiences and the industry's changing dynamics. After the disbandment of N.W.A, Eazy-E began working on Temporary Insanity to establish his solo career. The album was intended to feature a diverse range of sounds, mixing elements of Gangsta rap with influences from various producers. It was initially planned as a double album but was ultimately condensed into a single release due to a lack of funding, promotion, and changes in the hip-hop landscape. Dr. Dre was originally slated to produce the entire album; however, after his departure in early 1992, Eazy-E reworked many of the tracks with other producers. This led to the album's varied production style and the use of beats that would later be associated with other projects, including tracks for Ice Cube and Scarface.

The album was ambitious in scope, with plans for 29 tracks that would showcase a mix of hardcore rap and newer mixes such as Horrorcore. Eazy-E's upcoming album, Temporary Insanity, confirmed its impending release, as he shared insights on the album's content and his excitement for fans to hear it.

For more details, you can check out the video here.storytelling, and innovative production. Eazy-E collaborated with a variety of producers, including Dr. Dre, DJ Yella, Naughty by Nature, maintaining his distinctive sound.

Recording

The recording of Temporary Insanity was marked by numerous challenges that impacted its production and ultimately contributed to its shelving. Eazy-E was under significant stress during this period, frequently flying to New York every weekend for various business commitments, such as videos with MC Ren which left him exhausted. Upon returning home, he often felt drained and struggled to focus on his music.

Eazy-E was known to have a complicated relationship with the recording process. He reportedly disliked the act of recording and often found himself feeling uninspired. This disinterest manifested in his vocal delivery, as he occasionally struggled to stay on beat. Critics noted that some tracks exhibited a lack of cohesion, a reflection of Eazy-E's discontent during the recording sessions.

Additionally, the album's production faced delays, partly due to Eazy-E's difficulty in finding reliable audio engineers to assist with the project. This challenge resulted in the album sounding outdated by the time of its intended release, as the hip-hop landscape had rapidly evolved with the emergence of new styles and trends, particularly the G-funk sound that was gaining popularity.

Despite these obstacles, Eazy-E worked with a variety of producers, including DJ Yella, Naughty by Nature, and Rhythm D, among others, in an attempt to capture the evolving sound of West Coast hip-hop. However, the combination of Eazy-E's exhaustion, his distaste for recording, and the struggles to find suitable technical support led to an album that ultimately did not reflect the innovation that characterized much of the hip-hop music of its time.

Production and content

Originally, the production for Temporary Insanity was heavily influenced by Dr. Dre, who had a significant role in shaping Eazy-E's earlier work. However, after Dre's departure from Ruthless Records, Eazy-E was forced to quickly rework the album's beats, enlisting several other producers, including Torcha Chamba, Den Gale Pose, DJ Uneek, and Rhythm D from Death Row Records. This transition resulted in a diverse range of sounds, with each track showcasing unique production styles.

The album's themes encompassed Eazy-E's experiences with street life, the music industry, and the pressures of fame. Although using basic and normal themes, Eazy-E created newer themes such as Horrorcore Critics noted that the album lacked a unified thematic focus, which ultimately contributed to its shelving. Despite this, standout tracks such as Gimmie That Nutt and an unreleased diss track aimed at Ice Cube titled Heat Melts Cube showcased Eazy-E's lyrical prowess and willingness to engage with contemporary rivalries.

The decision to shelve

Despite the album's potential, several factors led to its cancellation. The shift towards the G-funk era made the previously recorded material feel outdated, and Eazy-E faced significant financial difficulties following the breakup of N.W.A. These challenges were exacerbated by a lack of promotion and funding, as well as internal conflicts within Ruthless Records.

Moreover, the album was intended to compete with the newly established sound led by artists like Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, making it difficult for Eazy-E's earlier style to resonate in the current climate. The project was ultimately deemed unfit for release, leading to Eazy-E reconfiguring his focus toward other projects, including his 1993 EP It's On (Dr. Dre) 187um Killa.

Financial struggles

Eazy-E faced significant financial challenges during the production of Temporary Insanity. After the disbandment of N.W.A, his finances were strained, making it difficult to afford the ambitious double-disc album format. Despite his previous success, the financial fallout from the breakup, coupled with the costs associated with frequent flights to New York for promotions and meetings, left him struggling to allocate sufficient funds for the project. Eazy-E was not only financing his own promotional activities but also investing in the careers of other Ruthless Records artists, further stretching his budget.

The costs of recording a double LP, including studio time and hiring talented audio engineers, posed a significant hurdle. Eazy-E was unable to pay for the high-quality production necessary to compete with the evolving sound of West Coast hip-hop and the emerging G-Funk genre. This lack of funding contributed to the album's delays, resulting in a sound that many critics deemed outdated by the time of its eventual release.

Recording challenges

The recording of Temporary Insanity was fraught with challenges. Eazy-E reportedly struggled with the process, often expressing disdain for the act of recording itself. His reluctance to spend long hours in the studio was compounded by exhaustion from traveling to New York every weekend, where he was engaged in various promotional activities and discussions regarding the future of Ruthless Records. This travel schedule left him physically and mentally fatigued, impacting his performance in the studio.

During the recording sessions, Eazy-E encountered issues with his timing, frequently recording off-beat, which further complicated the production process. Additionally, he struggled to find qualified audio engineers who could help him achieve the sound he envisioned for the album. The combination of these factors not only delayed the album but also contributed to its uneven production quality, which was criticized by some upon its release.

As Eazy-E attempted to navigate these obstacles, the landscape of hip-hop was changing rapidly. The rise of G-Funk and other contemporary styles created a sense of urgency for the album to resonate with the current musical climate. However, the outdated sound and Eazy-E's struggles ultimately hindered the album's success.

Track listing

• Track listing adapted from the album booklet

Stage 1

No.	Title	Writer(s)	Producer(s)	Length
1.	"First Power"	Eazy-E	DJ Yella	0:46
2.	"24 Hours Tah Live"	Dismost	Torcha Chamba	4:01
3.	"Any Last Werdz"	Kokane	Cold187um	5:09
4.	"Approach 2 Danger"	MC Ren	Dr. Dre	2:45
5.	"Bouncini"	MC Eiht	Dr. Dre	3:10
6.	"Roach"	Dirty Red	Madness4Real	7:53
7.	"Gimmie That Nutt"	Eazy-E	DJ Yella	2:59
8.	"Findum Fuckem Flee"	MC Ren	Dr. Dre	3:54
9.	"Sorry Louie"	Naughty By Nature	Bobcat	4:03
10.	"Automobile"	Eazy-E	Dr. Dre	3:15
11.	"I'd Ratha Fuck U"	Eazy-E	Dr. Dre	3:56
12.	"The Rev Man"	Eazy-E	DJ Yella	1:12
13.	"Boyz In Tha Hood G Mix"	Ice Cube	Dr. Jam	5:38
14.	"Apocalypse"	Dirty Red	Dr. Jam	4:34
Total length:				65:52

Stage 2

No.	Title	Writer(s)	Producer(s)	Length
1.	"Creep N Crawl"	Naughty by Nature	DJ Yella	4:10
2.	"Only If You Want It"	Treach	Treach	3:03
3.	"Neighborhood Sniper"	Kokane	Cold187um	5:12
4.	"Niggaz My Height Don't Fight"	Naughty By Nature	Bobcat	3:14
5.	"Hit The Hooker"	Naughty By Nature	Naughty By Nature	2:51
6.	"To Kill The Hooker"	MC Ren	Dr. Dre	0:49
7.	"Heat Melts Cube"	MC Ren	DJ Yella	4:22
8.	"She Swallowed It"	MC Ren	Dr. Dre	4:13
9.	"Nutz On Ya Chin"	Naughty By Nature	Naughty By Nature	3:07
10.	"Eazy 1, 2, 3"	Kokane	DJ U-Neek	4:06
11.	"Cock Tha 9"	Dirty Red	DJ U-Neek	3:44
12.	"Likkin Sukkin Phukkin"	Eazy-E	DJ Yella	2:24
13.	"My Babyz Mama"	Naughty By Nature	Bobcat	3:43
14.	"It's On"	Kokane	Rhythm D	5:03
15.	"Still Fuckem"	MC Ren, Paper Boy	Paper Boy	5:03
Total length:				61:44

Lyrical themes

The lyrical content of Temporary Insanity reflects a range of themes that encapsulate Eazy-E's experiences and perspectives as a prominent figure in hip-hop. The album navigates complex issues such as street life, violence, and personal struggles, showcasing Eazy's unfiltered storytelling ability.

Street Life and Violence Many tracks delve into the realities of life in Compton, with Eazy-E candidly addressing the challenges faced by individuals in his community. Songs like "Neighborhood Sniper" and "Heat Melts Cube" explore the violent landscape that shaped his upbringing, portraying the consequences of gang culture and the harsh realities of survival. Eazy's vivid imagery and raw delivery serve to immerse listeners in the gritty narratives of street life.

Discontent and Personal Struggles Eazy-E's frustrations with the music industry and his personal life are also prominent themes throughout the album. Tracks such as "Apocalypse" reflect his disillusionment with the pressures and expectations placed upon him as an artist. The lyrics often convey a sense of vulnerability, revealing the internal conflicts that accompany fame, including feelings of isolation and betrayal.

Commentary on Rivalries Temporary Insanity features tracks that address rivalries and feuds within the hip-hop community, particularly his tensions with former group member Ice Cube. The diss tracks and competitive lyrics highlight the nature of competition in the genre and Eazy's unwillingness to back down in the face of adversity. This theme of confrontation not only showcases Eazy's bravado but also underscores the larger cultural narratives surrounding loyalty and betrayal within hip-hop.

Humor and Bravado Despite the serious themes, Eazy-E's characteristic humor and bravado permeate the album. Songs like "It's On" exemplify his ability to blend lightheartedness with more serious subject matter, creating a dynamic contrast that defines his style. This duality allows Eazy to engage listeners while still addressing weighty issues, further solidifying his place as a multifaceted lyricist.

Reflection of Identity Ultimately, the lyrical themes of Temporary Insanity reflect Eazy-E's complex identity as both an artist and a representative of his community. Through his narratives, he provides insight into the struggles and triumphs of life in Compton, capturing the essence of the West Coast hip-hop experience in the early 1990s.

The 1997 flood and its impact on Eazy-E's music

In 1997, a flood devastated Eazy-E's recording studio, resulting in the loss of many original recordings and unreleased tracks. Producer Den Gale confirmed the destruction of significant material, which hindered potential future releases, including *Temporary Insanity*. This incident underscored the challenges artists face in preserving their work and marked a setback for Eazy-E's legacy. Many of the unreleased tracks were believed to contain collaborations and innovative ideas that could have reshaped his discography. The flood not only affected Eazy-E but also highlighted the broader issue of music preservation in the industry.

As a result of the flood, the unreleased material may never be recovered, leading to speculation among fans and historians about what might have been included in future projects. This loss is seen as a poignant reminder of the fragility of artistic creations and the impact of unforeseen events on an artist's career.

Legal troubles

The production of Temporary Insanity was significantly affected by legal disputes involving Eazy-E, his manager Jerry Heller, former N.W.A member Dr. Dre, and Suge Knight, the CEO of Death Row Records. Following the release of Dr. Dre's seminal album The Chronic, which included beats originally intended for Temporary Insanity, a series of legal battles ensued over the rights to these productions. Eazy-E and Heller, representing Ruthless Records, argued that the use of these beats without permission was detrimental to Eazy's career and the financial stability of the label.

Despite the victory in court, which allowed Ruthless Records to retain some rights, the ongoing disputes and the distractions from these legal battles contributed to the album's delays and ultimately its cancellation. Eazy-E faced challenges not only from Dre and Death Row but also from other industry figures, making it difficult to finalize the tracks intended for Temporary Insanity. The situation was exacerbated by Eazy's financial struggles after the disbandment of N.W.A, leaving him incapable of financing a double-disc album properly. He had limited resources to pay for studio time and production costs, which were compounded by his frequent flights to New York for promotional activities related to other Ruthless acts.

As a result of these legal issues and financial constraints, several tracks originally planned for Temporary Insanity were shelved or repurposed for other projects. This disorganization and lack of clear direction during the recording process further hindered the album's development, leading to a sound that critics deemed outdated upon its eventual release.

Reasons for cancellation of Temporary Insanity

The cancellation of Eazy-E's Temporary Insanity stemmed from a combination of creative, financial, and legal challenges, which ultimately hindered the album's release.

1. Outdated Sound As Eazy-E began to rework Temporary Insanity following the departure of Dr. Dre, the album's sound became increasingly outdated. The emergence of the G-Funk style, characterized by melodic synths and laid-back grooves, shifted the landscape of West Coast hip-hop. As Eazy-E struggled to adapt to this evolving sound, many tracks from the album felt disjointed and no longer aligned with contemporary trends.

2. Financial Constraints Following the disbandment of N.W.A, Eazy-E faced significant financial struggles that severely impacted the production of Temporary Insanity. The costs associated with recording, producing, and promoting a double album were substantial, especially as Eazy-E was frequently flying to New York City for meetings and promotions for other Ruthless Records acts. This financial strain limited his ability to invest in quality studio time, hire skilled audio engineers, and effectively market the project. 3. Creative Discontent Eazy-E's dissatisfaction with the recording process contributed to the album's delay. He often felt off-beat and struggled to deliver his verses effectively, complicating the recording sessions. His lack of enthusiasm for the recording process also made it challenging to maintain a consistent creative vision for the album.

4. Legal Troubles The legal battles surrounding Eazy-E, Jerry Heller, Dr. Dre, and Suge Knight played a crucial role in the album's cancellation. Disputes over production credits and royalties, particularly after the release of Dr. Dre's The Chronic, created additional tension within the industry. Although Ruthless Records ultimately won some of these legal battles, the fallout from the lawsuits resulted in delays and difficulties in securing the necessary resources for the album.

5. Struggles with Audio Engineers Throughout the production of Temporary Insanity, Eazy-E encountered difficulties in finding competent audio engineers who could bring his vision to life. This struggle, compounded by the changing landscape of hip-hop, led to a disjointed sound that failed to resonate with listeners.

6. Shift in Industry Dynamics The hip-hop industry was rapidly evolving in the early 1990s, with new artists and styles emerging that overshadowed Eazy-E's previous successes. The rise of G-Funk and the dominance of other artists, particularly from Death Row Records, created an environment where Temporary Insanity struggled to find its place.

Ultimately, the combination of these factors led to the shelving of Temporary Insanity, which was intended to be a groundbreaking double album. Despite the challenges, many tracks from the album were later released in various forms, but the original vision Eazy-E had for the project was never fully realized.

Conclusion and legacy

Temporary Insanity was initially envisioned as Eazy-E's magnum opus, a double album that would establish his continued dominance in the West Coast hip-hop scene. However, due to a confluence of factors, including legal battles, financial difficulties, and the evolving sound of hip-hop, the album was ultimately canceled. While tracks from the album were repurposed for other projects such as It's On (Dr. Dre) 187um Killa and Str8 Off Tha Streetz of Muthaphukkin Compton, the original vision of Temporary Insanity was never fully realized.

The album's cancellation marked a pivotal moment in Eazy-E's career, reflecting both the challenges he faced as an independent artist and label owner after the disbandment of N.W.A. Despite its shelving, the material from Temporary Insanity has gained legendary status among fans, with many considering it one of the great "lost" albums of 1990s hip-hop. Several songs, such as "24 Hours to Live," "Apocalypse," and "It's On," helped solidify Eazy-E's reputation as a fierce competitor in the ongoing West Coast rivalry, particularly against former collaborators like Dr. Dre.

Temporary Insanity also serves as a case study in the struggles artists face when dealing with both creative roadblocks and industry politics. Eazy-E's inability to release the album as intended highlighted the broader tensions within the early 1990s hip-hop world, as artists navigated shifting musical trends, label conflicts, and legal entanglements.

Today, Temporary Insanity is remembered as one of the most anticipated, yet ultimately unreleased, projects in hip-hop history. It continues to be a subject of intrigue for fans of Ruthless Records and collectors of rare hip-hop tracks, with several unreleased or alternate versions of songs still circulating in underground circles.