* invented Hardcore Rap (before the Wu, Kool G. Rap was the most "hardcore" dude)

* perfected Gangsta Rap (Only Built 4 Cuban Linx)

* spread the 5% Nation of Islam teachings to a broader audience

* brought underground hip-hop into mainstream (plainum after platinum)

* took over G-Funk with moody, gritty beats (there'd be no Mobb Deep, Onyx or JMT)

* changed the way people talk and used slang (5% Nation of Islam / Dunn language)

* changed the way people dressed (more baggy, Wallabees, Islamic-related)

* ended Mase's career (Ghostface fucked up his jaw)

* perfected the standard for what a hip-hop group should be

* best posse cuts ever recorded; no hooks, no chorus

* created the greatest sequel in hip-hop history (Cuban Linx II)

all in all, the two biggest changes they made was how to create gritty beats and spreading Islamic teachings