I watched “Straight Outta Compton” for the first time yesterday. I have a new-found appreciation for NWA and while I know Hollywood loves to stretch the truth sideways and all other ways, there’s no denying they redefined a genre and became one of the most influential groups of the 20th century.
After watching, I felt compelled to base today’s blog on the movie, as I picked up some lessons I thought it’d be worth sharing:
- Have a clear vision and work relentlessly towards it
Dr Dre seemed like a man on a mission. While the real-life Dre was one of the producers which probably influenced how the character was portrayed and therefore we can’t rely its 100% truth, there’s no denying that the man was, and is respected by the industry for his grind and hustle.
From convincing Eazy E to start a record label, to working in the studio all the time, his passion for what he does shines through, as does his determination to get to where he knows he has to be.
2. Find opportunity wherever you can
When the group decided to release a letter sent by the FBI asking them to retire a song to the public, I know these guys were always looking for opportunities and solutions. They wanted to keep moving forward and knew they had to get public opinion on their side.
3. Brotherhood trumps everything
NWA realised, more than anything, they were stronger together than as individuals. While some went from strength to strength (Cube, Dre), the movie makes it clear they knew they could’ve taken over the world if they stuck together.