The Musical Biography of Big L: from Harlem to Hip Hop Royalty

Hip hop music has been a powerhouse for diverse and talented creatives over the years, and Big L is one of the most celebrated lyricists in the rap game. Born and bred in Harlem, Big L’s incredible talent was honed in underground rap battles and on the gritty streets of New York City. Although he died young, his legacy lives on in his music, and this blog post takes a deep dive into the musical biography of Big L – his beginnings, his most famous albums, his most famous songs, his unique style, and the influences that shaped the artist.

Big L’s journey into the music world began in the early 1990s when he joined a group of underground rappers known as ‘The Children of the Corn’. He made his first significant impact in the rap scene with the album ‘Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous’, released in 1995. This classic showed his lyrical prowess, distinctive flow, and his ability to paint vivid pictures of the harsh realities of life in inner-city Harlem. Some notable tracks from the album include ‘Put It On’ and ‘Street Struck’.

After the success of his debut album, Big L signed with Columbia Records in 1998 and released ‘The Big Picture’ posthumously. It was a collection of his unreleased works and collaborations, which showcased his incredible talent and the promise of what could have been. ‘Ebonics’ and ‘Flamboyant’ were instantly popular, and solidified Big L’s reputation as one of the greatest rappers of his generation.

Big L’s creative style was defined by his unique lyrical abilities, his inimitable delivery, and his storytelling approach. He was an artist who could connect with his listeners on a personal level, recounting the struggles and triumphs of the everyday person. His music was relatable, his flow was smooth, and his rhymes were razor-sharp.

As a rapper, Big L was influenced by New York’s golden era hip-hop, with legendary artists like Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, and Kool G Rap being some of his favorites. Their influence can be heard in his delivery and flow, which were both distinctive and influential. However, despite his influences, Big L’s style was entirely unique, and he stands out as one of the most original talents in hip hop history.

Big L’s most famous song is ‘Put It On’, which features his signature flow and storytelling abilities. It’s a song that epitomizes his skills as a rapper, and one that showcases why he is considered one of the greatest to ever do it. ‘Ebonics’ is another famous song that showcases his distinctive style and sense of humor, as he breaks down street slang into ‘Ebonics’.

Big L was a phenomenal talent, a rap prodigy whose music continues to inspire and delight fans years after his untimely passing. His beginnings in the underground rap scene of New York City were humble, but his influence is far-reaching, and his legacy is one that will not be forgotten. He was innovative, imaginative, and an artist whose unique storytelling abilities and exceptional rhymes will be celebrated for generations to come. Big L’s music is a gift to his fans and listeners everywhere- may his rhymes continue to flow, and his legacy live on forever.

Big L was a phenomenal talent, a rap prodigy whose music continues to inspire and delight fans years after his untimely passing. His beginnings in the underground rap scene of New York City were humble, but his influence is far-reaching, and his legacy is one that will not be forgotten. He was innovative, imaginative, and an artist whose unique storytelling abilities and exceptional rhymes will be celebrated for generations to come. Big L’s music is a gift to his fans and listeners everywhere- may his rhymes continue to flow, and his legacy live on forever.