Classic West Coast Hip-Hop Photographs

Michael Miller's pictures chart Left Coast rap history.

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Complex Original

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Over a 25-year career, Michael Miller has produced photographs for over 300 record covers. He's shot jazz legends and supermodels too. But, most importantly, his work in hip-hop forms a unique visual history of rap on the West Coast.

After first photographing Arabian Prince and a Stussy campaign, Miller was contacted by DJ Muggs to shoot the cover of the Cyprus Hill demo. The rest, as they say, is history. The commission lead to a slew of rap projects and as a result one of the most astounding archives of hip-hop photography documenting the distinct culture of Southern California.  

Miller's debut exhibition, West Coast Hip Hop, A History In Pictures runs this weekend (February 4 through 5, 2012) at Known Gallery. In total, Miller will display 43 photos, many never shown to the public before.

Known Gallery, 441 North Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA

For more check out Miller's interview with legendary LA streetwear brand FreshJive -

vimeo.com

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