On this date in Hip Hop history, Cleveland’s own Bone Thugs-N-Harmony released their second studio album E. 1999 Eternal through Ruthless Records, marking a defining moment for the group and the genre as a whole.
Arriving just four months after the untimely passing of their mentor and executive producer Eazy-E, the album was a powerful tribute and a creative leap forward. Powered by Bone’s signature rapid-fire flow and melodic harmonies, E. 1999 Eternal quickly became a commercial and cultural breakthrough—selling over five million copies in the U.S. and more than ten million worldwide.
Standout tracks like “1st of tha Month” and the Grammy Award–winning “Tha Crossroads” propelled the LP into Hip Hop history. “Tha Crossroads” was a heartfelt dedication to Eazy-E and remains one of Bone’s most iconic and best-selling records.
What also made the album stand out was its soulful use of samples. From The Isley Brothers’ “Make Me Say It Again Girl” on “Tha Crossroads” to Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Reasons” on “Budsmokers Only,” and Bootsy’s Rubber Band on “Mo’ Murda,” the production layered timeless sounds with the group’s gritty street perspective.
Twenty-nine years later, E. 1999 Eternal remains a classic that pushed boundaries, blended styles, and elevated the Midwest’s voice in Hip Hop. Salute to Krayzie, Layzie, Bizzy, Wish, and Flesh for giving us a timeless piece of art that still resonates across generations.