On this day in hip-hop history, Death Row Records, in partnership with Interscope Records, released the soundtrack to the classic film Above the Rim. The album became one of the most celebrated movie soundtracks of all time, even winning the 1995 Source Award for Soundtrack of the Year. Packed with hit songs, the soundtrack stood strong as a compilation album in its own right.
Suge Knight and Dr. Dre served as executive producers, curating a lineup of artists that defined the era. The album featured contributions from 2Pac, Warren G, SWV, Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, The Lady of Rage, and more. With a roster of top-tier talent and the success of the film, the soundtrack sold over 2 million copies in its first year. It peaked at number two on the Billboard 200 chart and claimed the top spot on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
Nearly three decades later, the Above the Rim soundtrack remains a standout in hip-hop history, blending West Coast dominance with R&B finesse to create an unforgettable collection of music.