The Times vs. N.W.A: Highlights from the paper's early coverage

N.W.A in March 1989. Back row, from left: DJ Yella, Dr. Dre and M.C. Ren (Kings cap). Front, from left: Ice Cube and Eazy-E. (Los Angeles Times staff photo)With the arrival of the N.W.A movie “Straight Outta Compton” comes a renewed interest in Los Angeles hip-hop of the late 1980s and '90s.

As the underground crew ascended into the mainstream, The Times helped spread the news about N.W.A’s rise, reviewing for the masses the group’s records during a time when commercial radio refused to air their music.

How were the group’s recordings received at the time? As was the case across mainstream media, praise was tempered with hesitation, as though attempting to come to terms not only with the…