(AllHipHop News) While hip-hop mourned the losses of Big Pun, Whitney Houston, Don Cornelius and Etta James over the last few weeks, fans have also taken the time today (February 15th) to remember Harlem rapper Big L and his uncanny ability to rhyme with the best.
Known for his studio albums Lifestylez Ov Da Poor & Dangerous, and The Big Picture, Big L set the standard for artists in New York’s underground scene for several years before he was gunned down in 1999.
While the murder still remains unsolved, Big L’s legacy has lived on and his post-humous career has been quite successful having even posted a number one single with the track, “Flamboyant,” released in 2000.
In fact, The Big Picture was RIAA certified gold in under a month reaching as high as #2 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums Billboard Charts.
“Thinking about my man BIG L, he passed away on this day, rest in Peace general!!! You still put it on!!!” Tony Touch exclaimed via Twitter.
“R.I.P My Lil Brother BIG L !!!! DITC 4EVER!!!” Fat Joe told fans.
Early on in his career, Big L was a founding member of D.I.T.C., a group that included Lord Finesse, Diamond D, O.C., Fat Joe, Buckwild, Showbiz and A.G., while other associated acts included Big Pun, DJ Premier, Brand Nubian, KRS-One, Freddie Foxxx and others.
Also in Big L’s short career, Big L founded Children of the Corn consisting of fellow Harlem rappers, Mase, Cam’ron (then known as Killa Kam), Herb McGruff and Bloodshed. Nearly every member of this group would go on to get a major deal.
“Rest In Peace BIG L One of the greatest Wordsmiths EVER……” Saigon told his followers on Twitter.
“RIP Big L, one of the dopest lyricists ever,” Skyzoo tweeted.
Perhaps one of the most memorable Big L performances was when he freestyled with a young up and coming Jay-Z in what is widely called, “The 7-Minute Freestyle.”
Today on New Yorks Hot 97, DJ Mister Cee paid tribute to the fallen wordsmith, which can be heard below. S/O Miss Info for the radio feed, R.I.P. Big L, you will never be forgotten!
Mister Cee Big L Throwback Noon Mix via New York’s Hot 97
