Guilty by Affiliation

Released on August 14, 2007, Guilty by Affiliation is the third solo studio album by veteran West Coast rapper WC. Issued via Lench Mob Records, the album represents a fierce, uncompromising return to the classic West Coast gangsta rap aesthetic during an era when mainstream hip-hop was shifting toward ringtone-friendly pop-rap. The project was heavily guided by Ice Cube, who served as co-producer and executive producer, ensuring a cohesive, hard-hitting sonic direction. Production duties were shared among a talented roster including Hallway Productionz, Emile, D-Mac, Jelly Roll, Laylaw, Mr. Porter, Nottz, Rick Rock, and The Legendary Traxster, resulting in a sound that is both modernly polished and deeply rooted in the heavy, synth-driven G-funk tradition. The album features high-profile guest appearances from Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, The Game, and Butch Cassidy, who provide vocal contrast to WC's relentless, raspy delivery. Fulfilling its street-level focus, the track 'This Is Los Angeles' went on to be featured in David Ayer's gritty 2008 police drama film Street Kings. Commercially, the album achieved notable success on the US charts, peaking at number 49 on the Billboard 200, number six on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, and number five on the Top Rap Albums chart.