West Coast hip hop is a subgenre of hip hop music that originated in California, particularly in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, during the late 1980s and early 1990s. It is characterized by its laid-back beats, funk influences, and often incorporates elements of G-funk, a style popularized by artists like Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg. The genre gained mainstream popularity with the rise of artists and groups such as Tupac Shakur, N.W.A, and Ice Cube. West Coast hip hop often reflects the culture and lifestyle of the region, addressing themes like street life, social issues, and personal experiences.