Tone Lōc – Loc'ed After Dark

Tone Lōc – Loc'ed After Dark

Loc'ed After Dark is the landmark debut album from Tone Lōc, one of the defining voices of late-1980s hip hop. Released in 1989, the album became a major commercial success, helping to bring rap music into the mainstream through its infectious grooves, humorous storytelling, and Tone Lōc's instantly recognisable deep, raspy vocal style.

Featuring the massive hit singles Wild Thing and Funky Cold Medina, the album became one of the first hip hop records to achieve multi-platinum success, introducing a new audience to rap music at a pivotal moment in the genre's development. Blending funk-inspired production, catchy hooks, and laid-back West Coast swagger, Loc'ed After Dark perfectly captures the sound of late-1980s hip hop.

The album opens with On Fire (Remix) and continues with standout tracks including the title cut Loc'ed After Dark, I Got It Goin' On, Cheeba Cheeba, and Next Episode—the latter later becoming notable for inspiring the title of a future classic by Dr. Dre.

Produced by members of the influential The Dust Brothers, the album draws heavily on funk and rock samples, creating a party atmosphere that remains highly influential and instantly recognisable. More than three decades after its release, Loc'ed After Dark stands as one of the essential albums of hip hop's golden age.

Tracklist:

Side A

1. On Fire (Remix) – 4:57
2. Wild Thing – 4:25
3. Loc'ed After Dark – 5:09
4. I Got It Goin' On – 4:29
5. Cutting Rhythms – 5:25

Side B

1. Funky Cold Medina – 4:04
2. Next Episode – 3:56
3. Cheeba Cheeba – 6:10
4. Don't Get Close – 3:38
5. Loc'in On The Shaw – 5:11
6. The Homies – 3:48