Gangsta rap is not all rap. That's the issue presented, though admittedly by the time the 2000s rolled around most of it had been influenced enough to contain some gangsta DNA.
Go listen to Ice T, Kool G Rap or NWA {especially after Cube left} from the late 80s.
Then compare with LL, Epmd or public enemy from the same era.
Gangsta rap is not all rap. That's the issue presented, though admittedly by the time the 2000s rolled around most of it had been influenced enough to contain some gangsta DNA.
Go listen to Ice T, Kool G Rap or NWA {especially after Cube left} from the late 80s.
Then compare with LL, Epmd or public enemy from the same era.