In their new issue (#50), Wax Poetics went digging for records with DJ Quik at Hollywood’s famed Amoeba Records shop. Thankfully, the article is also available online. The producer for 2Pac, Jay Z, Suga Free, Hi-C, Mausberg, Snoop Dogg, and countless others used the racks of wax to identify 19 particular releases that inspired his unique sound of Funk, Solaar Records-style R&B, and Gangsta Rap. The Compton, California iconic producer/MC/DJ identified joints from Prince, N.W.A., his DeBarge homies in Switch, and even one of his own albums for good ego-trippin’ measure.

In addition to just the raw fun in watching what Quik picks, the Bangin’ On Wax alum goes in great detail on what makes each selection great, and how he applies them to his own funky, space-inspired grooves.

Here’s three specific joints David Blake (Quik’s Death Row-era stage-name) selected, jam on:

1. “I’m In Love Again” by Minnie Riperton featuring Michael Jackson & Hubert Laws

2. “Numbers” by Kraftwerk

3. “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds” by The Beatles

Read the whole DJ Quik x Wax Poetics list in issue #50, or here.

Related: DJ Quik Performs a Brand New Song On Skee Live (Video)