Biggie

Definition

Biggie, also known as The Notorious B.I.G., was an influential American rapper and songwriter who played a pivotal role in the evolution of hip hop during the 1990s. His storytelling ability, smooth delivery, and mastery of rhythm helped define East Coast rap and influenced countless artists. Biggie's music often reflected themes of struggle, street life, and resilience, contributing to the genre's depth and complexity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Biggie was born Christopher Wallace on May 21, 1972, in Brooklyn, New York, and he became a central figure in the East Coast hip hop scene.
2. His debut album, 'Ready to Die,' released in 1994, received critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying his status as a leading rapper.
3. Biggie's collaborations with other artists, including Puff Daddy (now Diddy), helped to popularize his sound and expand his reach within the music industry.
4. Tragically, Biggie was murdered on March 9, 1997, in Los Angeles, which further fueled the rivalry between East Coast and West Coast hip hop.
5. His posthumous album 'Life After Death' debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and showcased his lyrical genius and versatility as an artist.

Review Questions

• How did Biggie's unique style contribute to the evolution of East Coast hip hop during the 1990s?
  • Biggie's unique style blended storytelling with smooth delivery and intricate wordplay, which set him apart from other artists of his time. His ability to convey personal experiences through vivid narratives resonated with audiences and helped to elevate East Coast hip hop's prominence. By incorporating elements of jazz and soul into his beats, Biggie not only enriched the genre but also influenced a wave of future artists seeking to emulate his sound and lyrical depth.
• Discuss the impact of Biggie's rivalry with Tupac Shakur on the hip hop community and music industry as a whole.
  • The rivalry between Biggie and Tupac Shakur significantly impacted the hip hop community by highlighting the tensions between East Coast and West Coast rap scenes. Their feud fueled media sensationalism, leading to a division among fans and artists alike. This conflict also served as a catalyst for discussions about violence in hip hop culture, ultimately culminating in tragic events such as both artists' untimely deaths. The legacy of their rivalry continues to influence the genre's narrative around competition and artistry.
• Evaluate how Biggie's contributions to hip hop shaped the genre's direction in the late 20th century and its lasting influence on contemporary artists.
  • Biggie's contributions to hip hop during the late 20th century reshaped the genre by pushing boundaries in storytelling and lyrical complexity. His blending of personal experiences with broader social themes set a precedent for future artists to explore deeper narratives in their work. The influence of Biggie can be seen in contemporary artists who draw inspiration from his style, often reflecting similar themes of struggle and resilience. His ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level continues to resonate within today's hip hop landscape.

Related terms

East Coast Hip Hop: A subgenre of hip hop music that originated in New York City, characterized by its lyrical focus, complex wordplay, and incorporation of jazz and soul samples.

Gangsta Rap: A subgenre of hip hop that emerged in the late 1980s, focusing on the lifestyles and challenges faced by individuals in urban settings, often involving themes of violence and crime.

Tupac Shakur:

An iconic rapper and actor known for his profound lyrics and social commentary, whose rivalry with Biggie became a significant aspect of hip hop history.