Ep. 255: A discussion on Coolio's "Gangsta's Paradise (feat. L.V.)"

Chris DeMakes A Podcast

Chris DeMakes

Music History, Music Commentary, Music, Music Interviews

4.9 • 923 Ratings

🗓️ 28 April 2025

⏱️ 65 minutes

🔗️ Recording | iTunes | RSS

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Summary

This week, Chris DeMakes and Chris Fafalios take a deep dive into Coolio’s massive 1995 hit “Gangsta’s Paradise,” unpacking the song’s gripping themes, powerful lyrics, and lasting cultural impact. From the Stevie Wonder sample that gave it its foundation to the haunting choir that set its tone, they break down the song’s composition and the intense storytelling that made it resonate across generations. They also discuss Coolio’s journey from Monessen, Pennsylvania, to Compton, his struggles and triumphs, and how this song—written in what he described as a near-spiritual moment—became an anthem of reflection on violence and mortality. Along the way, they touch on personal memories, the song’s place in pop culture, and why it still hits just as hard today. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcript

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0:00.0	This episode is brought to you by Distro Kid.
0:04.2	Hey, hey, have you heard?
0:06.7	I'm coming back to give guided tours at the Punk Rock Museum
0:09.5	and Las Vegas, Friday, May 2nd, Saturday, May 3rd, and Sunday, May 4th.
0:14.8	Two tours each day, one at 12.30 p.m. and one at 4 p.m.
0:18.8	Get your tickets now at the punkrockm museum.com. The punk rock museum,
0:23.7	where you can expect the unexpected. Like the time I saw Fletcher from Pennywise and noodles
0:28.4	from the offspring, randomly hanging out on a Tuesday afternoon, or flee from red hot chili
0:33.6	peppers having a casual stroll through. or the time myself and a group walked
0:38.6	around the corner to find Fat Mike grilling a married couple about their um never mind
0:43.6	join me Cinque de Mayo weekend May 2nd 3rd and 4th as I guide you five decades of
0:48.9	punk rock memorabilia flyers musical instruments outfits, literature, and so much more.
0:55.7	Tickets available now at the punk rock museum.com.
1:08.9	Hey everyone.
1:10.3	Today we bring you another episode of an artist that is sadly no longer with us.
1:14.8	That person being artist Leon Ivy Jr. The American rapper, better known by his stage name,
1:21.1	Cullio. Producer and co-host Chris Fafalius and myself, take a deep dive into the
1:26.6	lyrical interpretation and musical composition
1:29.2	behind Cullio's massive 1995 smash hit, Gangsta's Paradise, taken from the album of the same name.
1:36.7	It's hard to believe this song is 30 years old.
1:40.1	Released on Cullio's 32nd birthday, this track is a mastery of storytelling within the verses,
1:45.6	mixed with the sweet hook of a poppy chorus.
	...

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