Notorious B.I.G.

Definition

Notorious B.I.G., also known as Biggie Smalls, was an influential American rapper who emerged during the golden age of hip hop in the 1990s. He is renowned for his storytelling ability, distinctive flow, and lyrical prowess, which helped shape the East Coast hip hop scene. His rise to fame came during a time when hip hop was evolving and expanding, making him a key figure in the genre's mainstream success.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Notorious B.I.G. was born Christopher Wallace on May 21, 1972, in Brooklyn, New York, and became one of the most iconic figures in hip hop history.
2. His debut album, 'Ready to Die,' released in 1994, is often cited as one of the greatest hip hop albums of all time, featuring hits like 'Juicy' and 'Big Poppa.'
3. Biggie's lyrical content often explored themes of struggle, success, and the realities of street life, resonating with many fans and establishing a deep connection to his audience.
4. He was closely associated with the Bad Boy Records label, founded by Sean Combs (Puff Daddy), which played a pivotal role in popularizing East Coast hip hop during the 1990s.
5. Tragically, Notorious B.I.G. was murdered on March 9, 1997, in Los Angeles, a crime that remains unsolved and symbolizes the violent conflicts within the hip hop community at the time.

Review Questions

• How did Notorious B.I.G.'s storytelling ability contribute to his impact on hip hop during its golden age?
  • Notorious B.I.G.'s storytelling ability set him apart from other artists and allowed him to create vivid narratives within his songs. His lyrics often painted pictures of his life experiences, struggles in Brooklyn, and the challenges he faced while rising to fame. This connection to his audience helped solidify his place as a central figure in hip hop's evolution during its golden age.
• Discuss the role of Bad Boy Records in shaping Notorious B.I.G.'s career and East Coast hip hop's prominence in the 1990s.
  • Bad Boy Records played a crucial role in Notorious B.I.G.'s career by providing a platform for his music and connecting him with other influential artists. Under the guidance of Sean Combs (Puff Daddy), Bad Boy Records helped popularize East Coast hip hop at a time when West Coast artists were gaining significant attention. This rivalry contributed to a broader narrative within hip hop culture, further fueling interest in both coasts.
• Evaluate how Notorious B.I.G.'s legacy continues to influence contemporary hip hop and its artists today.
  • Notorious B.I.G.'s legacy profoundly impacts contemporary hip hop through his innovative lyrical style and emphasis on storytelling. Many modern artists cite him as an inspiration for their own music, incorporating elements of his flow and thematic depth into their work. His influence can also be seen in how current rappers address social issues and personal narratives within their songs, continuing to carry forward Biggie's spirit and artistry in today's music landscape.

Related terms

East Coast Hip Hop: A regional subgenre of hip hop that originated in New York City, characterized by its complex lyrics and samples from jazz and funk music.

Hip Hop Feuds: Rivalries between artists or groups within the hip hop community, often marked by diss tracks and public disputes.

Gangsta Rap: A subgenre of hip hop that emerged in the late 1980s, featuring themes of street life, crime, and social issues, often reflecting the realities of urban environments.