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Craig Mack’s “Project: Funk Da World” Turns 29

November 20, 2023 by newhiphopnews

In 1994, after a slow, but steady ascent in his musical career, Craig Mack released his breakout single “Flava In Ya Ear.” That song marked the beginning of the rapper’s rise and ended up as the lead single from his debut album. The album in question is called Project: Funk Da World and it turned 29 years old in September. Project: Funk Da World is the first of three albums Craig Mack released, and it is also the most successful. The rapper sadly passed away in 2018 due to heart failure, but through his musical works, his legacy lives on. Project: Funk Da World remains the most exceptional of them all, standing as a testament to Mack’s talent and creativity.

How Project: Funk Da World Was Conceived

craig mack debut album project funk da world — CHICAGO – SEPTEMBER 1994: Rapper Craig Mack performs at the Riviera Theatre in Chicago, Illinois in September 1994. (Photo By Raymond Boyd/Getty Images)

Project: Funk Da World was released on September 20, 1994, under Bad Boy Records. It was during this period that Bad Boy Records, founded by Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs, started gaining traction in the Hip Hop industry. Craig Mack had a raw talent and unique style that convinced Puff Daddy to sign him to Bad Boy Records. Subsequently, Project: Funk Da World was released, marking Craig Mack’s debut full-length album release.

Craig Mack Dishes Out A Funk-Rap Debut

The album’s title suggests a fusion of funk and Hip Hop elements, and it surely delivers on its promise. A union of funk-inspired beats with Mack’s lyrical world created a sound that was both groovy and impactful. Craig Mack employed a sharp, lyrical style and showcased his confidence and dexterity. He also demonstrated his proficiency throughout the album, riding each groovy beat effortlessly. At its heart, Project: Funk Da World is a party record, just as much as it is a proper rap album. It is evident in the undeniable bounce present throughout the album’s runtime. Overall, Project: Funk Da World was a brave attempt at a fusion rap album, and Craig Mack successfully executed his ambitious goal.

Collaborators On The Album

Funk Da World would not be the sonic delight it is without the input of the people who worked on it alongside Craig Mack. It took a village, backed by the production talents of Easy Mo Bee, Rashad Smith, Sean Combs, Lenny Marrow, and Mack himself. They all came together to create a cohesive body of work marked by infectious funk beats. Evidently, the beats provided a vibrant backdrop for Mack’s energetic and charismatic delivery.

However, the only artist featured on the 11-track album is Puff Daddy, who appears on the track “Making Moves With Puff.” Two other songs were released as singles. These were: “Get Down,” and the popular lead single, “Flava in Ya Ear.” Peaking at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100, “Flava in Ya Ear” was the most successful single of Mack’s career.

A Critical Success

Project: Funk Da World received mostly positive reviews from critics and listeners who praised the skillful rhymes of Craig Mack. Moreover, the album’s production was especially lauded for its unique take on a funk-rap hybrid. The album, alongside The Notorious BIG’s Ready To Die, contributed to the early success of Bad Boy Records. Unfortunately, as Ready To Die was released just a week before Mack’s album, it attracted most of the attention. As a result, Funk Da World did not attain the heights of commercial success it had the potential to reach, despite its critical acclaim.

Craig Mack Lives On

While Craig Mack did not enjoy the same longevity as some of his peers, his debut album remains a classic in the Hip Hop community. It not only established him as a notable rapper but also played a crucial role in shaping the early identity of Bad Boy Records. The rapper may be gone now, but there’s no erasing his album. Without a doubt, Project: Funk Da World will continue to live on as a significant work in Hip Hop history.

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Former Bad Boy Group B5 Demand Publishing Rights From Diddy

November 15, 2023 by newhiphopnews

B5, an R&B group that released two albums as artists under Diddy at Bad Boy Records, is demanding their publishing rights back. They revealed that they haven’t heard from Diddy despite his offer to give other artists like Mase, The Notorious B.I.G., and The LOX, among others their rights back. They discussed the situation during an appearance on the We In Miami podcast.

The group explained that they “didn’t hear anything, we didn’t get no calls [or] nothing like that, from that.” They added: “Puff — Diddy, yeah, we all want our publishing too.” The crew continued: “We were so young at the time; we didn’t understand the business of it. But, you know, now looking back, it’s like, ‘Damn, why our names wasn’t on the credits?… Where the percentages at? Where the [publishing] at?” They also remarked that they left the label due to “not seeing eye to eye.”

B5 & Diddy At BET Studios

NEW YORK – JULY 19: Diddy and B5 (Brian, Dustin, Patrick, Kelly, Carnell) on the set of BET’s 106 & Park at BET Studios on July 19, 2007 in New York City. (Photo by John Ricard/FilmMagic)

Even artists who have gotten their rights back from Diddy have complained about the Bad Boy boss. Mark Curry, who featured on the 2001 hit, “Bad Boy For Life,” remarked that his rights are worthless this late. “What’s it worth now? He gave me mine back a long time ago … That’s disrespectful — I said why don’t you just keep it and pay me? I don’t want the publishing; I want the money,” he said on Instagram.

B5 Address Status Of Publishing Rights

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He continued: “Diddy gave the publishing back. So what? It has no value… I want him to give me a million cash and then I can plan the rest of my life out well. Ever had somebody owe you $50… when you needed it back… they didn’t pay you… then by the time they do pay you… the $50 doesn’t mean the same as it did when you needed it?” Be on the lookout for further updates on further updates on B5 and Diddy on HotNewHipHop.

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What Is Lil Kim’s Best-Selling Album?

November 13, 2023 by newhiphopnews

In the annals of hip-hop history, few moments are as pivotal as the emergence of Lil Kim with her debut album, Hard Core. In 1996, a diminutive dynamo from Brooklyn shattered the glass ceiling with a velvet glove wrapped around a mic and a lyrical sledgehammer. Hard Core was not merely an album. It was a cultural manifesto that challenged the male-dominated rap industry with its unfiltered portrayal of female sexuality and prowess.

At a time when the voices of women in hip-hop were often relegated to the chorus, Lil Kim seized the narrative, commanding center stage with unapologetic bravado. Her debut was a tour-de-force. It was an audacious blend of gritty beats and glamorous life, all delivered with a streetwise flow. Hard Core was a declaration that the Queen Bee could not only navigate but dominate the rap landscape with potent and provocative bars.

Lil Kim’s fearless approach to music and image crafted an indelible blueprint for female empowerment in the genre. Hard Core etched her name in history as a rapper and trailblazer for a movement of women in music. It was a crowning achievement that heralded the arrival of female rappers taking control of their artistry, narratives, and sexuality.

Hard Core: A Manifesto Of Feminine Power

When Hard Core hit the shelves, it was immediately clear that Kim was rewriting the playbook for what a female rapper could embody in hip-hop. The album’s tracks were an unapologetic showcase of her lyrical ingenuity and a fearless declaration of her sexuality. In songs like “Big Momma Thang” and “No Time,” she exuded confidence and control, flipping the script on the genre’s traditionally male-centric narratives.

The production of Hard Core was a perfect marriage of Lil Kim’s audacious lyrics with lush, hard-hitting beats that would define the era’s East Coast sound. With the legendary Notorious B.I.G. as an executive producer and contributions from a slew of top-tier talent like Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs, Jermaine Dupri, and Ski, the album was both a commercial juggernaut and a critical darling. Tracks such as “Crush on You” featuring Lil’ Cease and the platinum-selling “Not Tonight (Ladies Night Remix)” were not only hits but anthems that resonated with women everywhere, each beat and bar a step towards the empowerment of female voices in the industry.

Chart Success & Critical Acclaim

Hard Core catapulted Lil Kim from rising artist to hip-hop royalty. Its commercial success mirrored the boldness of its content. The album debuted at No. 11 on the Billboard 200. It was a remarkable achievement that underscored Lil’ Kim’s appeal beyond the traditional hip-hop circles. It wasn’t long before the RIAA certified it double platinum, confirming over two million copies sold. It’s a milestone for any artist and a groundbreaking accomplishment for a female rapper at the time.

The singles from Hard Core blazed their own trails through the charts. “No Time” soared to the top of the Billboard Rap Songs chart. “Crush on You” and “Not Tonight” found substantial success, with the latter’s remix becoming a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. These tracks weren’t just commercially viable. They were cultural moments that extended Lil Kim’s influence from the streets to the mainstream.

Critical reception of Hard Core was equally laudatory, with reviewers praising Lil Kim’s unyielding delivery and the album’s production quality. The boldness of her lyrical content, which challenged societal norms and expanded the space for female expression in hip-hop, was particularly noted. Hard Core earned Lil’ Kim nominations for prestigious awards. This further validated her artistry and the album’s significance in the broader music landscape.

A Legacy Etched In Hip-Hop History

More than two decades after its release, Hard Core stands as a seminal work in hip-hop. It’s echoes are felt in the genre’s continued evolution. Lil Kim’s debut was not just about the records it broke. It was also about the barriers it shattered, opening doors for a new generation of female artists unafraid to express their sexuality and assert their place in a male-dominated field. Her fearless approach laid the groundwork for the candid and unapologetic styles of countless MCs who followed in her footsteps.

Hard Core‘s cultural impact transcends music. It further influenced fashion with Kim’s iconic aesthetic that combined haute couture with streetwear. It became a trend that persists in today’s fashion landscape. Her influence on the visual language of female empowerment in music videos is undeniable.

The album’s legacy is also evidenced by its samples and references that continue to permeate hip-hop music. This is a testament to its enduring relevance. Lil’ Kim’s pioneering work on Hard Core set a precedent for authenticity, inspiring artists to share their truths without compromise. It remains a touchstone for discussions about gender in music and the portrayal of women in media.

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Tupac Was Extremely Close To Signing With Bad Boy Records According To His Brother

October 18, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Tupac’s mystique will never die and this recent news drop is another reason why. More and more information about the murder of the legendary artist continues to come out. We finally have more headway on who committed the crime and we are sure more will be unearthed. This latest bit of information circles back to Tupac’s musical career. As most people know, he was a part of Death Row Records. It is the label that associates itself with names like Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Suge Knight, Nate Dogg, and so many other legends. However, Tupac had a chance to join another iconic music group.

According to HipHopDX, the brother of the late rapper, Mopreme Shakur recently spoke with The Art of Dialogue. In the interview, Mopreme revealed some interesting news. When ‘Pac was released from jail in 1995, he was seriously considering joining Bad Boy Records. Mopreme said, “There was a point ‘Pac was considering going to Bad Boy before his relationship with Death Row. He wanted to be on a Black label… He wanted to be with the brothers.”

Mopreme Shakur Explains What Went Down With Tupac

However, it never worked out that way, obviously. What ultimately led to Tupac inking the contract with Death Row, was some battle of powers. Namely, Diddy had more say and control, according to Mopreme. “Over time, things happened, and ‘Pac started seeing things. Biggie was on Puffy’s label so with them two, it was Puffy calling the shots. There was some legitimate problems there.” It would have been incredible to see both of the biggest rappers in the world be on the same label. Who knows what material we could have gotten.

What are your initial thoughts on Mopreme Shakur saying that Tupac was really close to signing with Bad Boy Records? Do you think that he should have inked the deal? Would this have changed the landscape for hip-hop labels going forward? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Tupac, as well as everything else going on around the music world.

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The Notorious B.I.G.’s Debut “Ready To Die” Turns 29

September 25, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Brooklyn, New York, in the early ’90s: The brownstone-laden streets of Bedford-Stuyvesant throbbed with an unmistakable energy. Bodegas and barbershops doubled as discussion forums, with Hip Hop as the preferred topic of debate. This was an era of boomboxes and lyrical bravado, where every street corner and park bench might be the stage for the next big talent. Enter Christopher Wallace, a figure poised to encapsulate this energy, transforming it into an album that would soon reverberate far beyond those same streets.

Few could have predicted the cultural tidal wave that was Ready to Die. Released in 1994, this masterpiece wasn’t merely another album. Biggie Smalls emerged not as a mere rapper but as a raconteur par excellence. His tales, though uniquely his, resonated with thousands who saw fragments of their own stories within his lines. The musings of a young Black man navigating the treacherous terrain of the American dream, punctuated with wit, charm, and a heavy dose of reality—Ready to Die wasn’t just an album but a statement.

Part of Ready to Die‘s allure was its audacity, much like Biggie himself. The very title served as a stake in the ground, a prophetic and sardonic claim that life was never promised, but the music could be immortal. The album sits today as a cornerstone of Hip Hop history, and 29 years on, it’s anything but an artifact.

The Architecture Of A Classic

What makes this album a masterpiece is not just Biggie’s magnetic voice or street-corner philosophies but the veritable dream team of producers and features that flanked him. Names like DJ Premier, Lord Finesse, and Bluez Brothers may not have been Billboard chart-toppers, but they were architects in the house of Hip Hop. With an eclectic roster of talents, the production feels like a symphony that resonates from Brooklyn’s brownstones to Atlanta’s suburbs. Further, tracks like “Juicy” and “Big Poppa” are masterclasses in beatsmithing.

Moreover, while many rappers of the era often succumbed to the temptation of linguistic showmanship, Biggie’s lyrical mechanics were cut from a different cloth. His wordplay was far from mere verbal gymnastics. It was a tightly choreographed ballet of metaphors and life lessons. Tracks like “Gimme the Loot” and “Things Done Changed” are dissertations on the duality of the human condition, navigating a world as dangerous as it was compelling.

Cultural Impact & Legacy

Notorious B.I.G. 1995 (Photo by Chris Walter/WireImage)

No amount of intricate production or lyrical dexterity would’ve mattered if the album hadn’t set the charts ablaze. Fortunately for Biggie and Hip Hop history, Ready to Die did just that. Certified quadruple Platinum, this debut oeuvre was less an entry into the market and more of a hostile takeover. Critics offered more than nods. They penned raving reviews that often invoked comparisons to previous benchmarks in Hip Hop.

Additionally, the album served as the roots for a tree that has extended its branches far into the various subgenres of modern Hip Hop. From the confessional stylings of Kendrick Lamar to the gritty realism of Pusha T, the ripples of Ready to Die are discernible. Not to forget, this record was the cornerstone on which Bad Boy Records built its empire. Several artists from the label owe a degree of their success to the groundbreaking nature of this project.

Ready To Die Continues To Resonate

The staying power of Ready to Die is nothing short of astronomical. Decades have rolled by, yet the album’s soul is as untamed as ever. It’s not just another album gathering digital dust in the sprawling archives of streaming platforms. It’s a living, breathing entity. A forerunner in every “best of” list and forever pulsing in the veins of a culture that refuses to forget its heroes. Biggie’s opus remains a stylistic and thematic blueprint in a climate that has witnessed the explosion of subgenres and hybrid sounds.

Almost three decades on, the incalculable contributions Biggie made to the industry and the culture at large have yet to be eclipsed. His lyricism is still studied, his flow still imitated but never duplicated. The irony? An album that so explicitly flirted with death has proven immortal. The staying power of Ready to Die is more than a tribute to an artist taken from us far too soon. It remains deeply rooted in its formative icons and a cornerstone in the ever-expanding cathedral of Hip Hop.

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Charli Baltimore: A Look At A Hip Hop Queen

September 25, 2023 by newhiphopnews

The Hip Hop scene in the ‘90s and early 2000s was teeming with talent. Rap icons like Jay-Z, Nas, and Lil’ Kim, among others, were at the forefront in that era and helped usher a new generation of artists into a much bigger spotlight. A name that doesn’t come up as often, however, is Charli Baltimore, the pioneer female rapper. Indeed, the East Coast Hip Hop star and unsung rap queen is vastly underrated.

While she has appeared in the media several times over the years, there’s so much worth praising the star for. She’s often mentioned for her romantic relationship with The Notorious B.I.G., but her music is rarely referenced. Nonetheless, between the late ‘90s and early 2000s, Charli Baltimore was a formidable rapper in her own right. She rightly deserves her flowers. Moreover, she should be recognized for contributing to the Hip Hop scene during the formidable era.

Background

JaRule, Charli Baltimore & Ashanti (Photo by Gregg DeGuire/WireImage)

Charli Baltimore was born Tiffany Lane on August 16, 1974. Her introduction to the world of Hip Hop came through her romantic relationship with The Notorious B.I.G. Importantly, Lane had no prior experience with rap or Hip Hop at the time. However, she soon started developing an interest in it after spending time with Biggie. As time passed, Biggie encouraged her to pursue a rap career, as he saw promise in her. She eventually took him up on his offer and later adopted the stage name Charli Baltimore. Her moniker was particularly chosen to reference the main character of the 1996 action thriller film The Long Kiss Goodnight.

Charli Baltimore: Her Ascent

The rapper’s foray into the music industry began with her debut single, “Money,” released in 1998. The song piqued listeners’ interest and quickly garnered Charli Baltimore some recognition. That same year, she was also featured on Harlem rapper Cam’ron’s track “Horse & Carriage (Remix)” alongside Big Pun, Wyclef Jean, and Silkk The Shocker. She built up traction from these releases and in August 1999, dropped her debut album, Cold as Ice. It remains her sole album. In the 2010s, she released two mixtapes: Natural Born Khronicles (2012) and Hard 2 Kill (2013).

Cold as Ice did not see a public release. Instead, it was released promotionally and did not appear on the Billboard charts. Regardless, it was a moderately successful album and helped propel Charli Baltimore forward. The two standout tracks from the album are “Stand Up,” featuring Ghostface Killah, and “Feel It.” Beyond these, Baltimore was a vivid musical storyteller and even recorded an entire 50 Cent diss mixtape once. She also ventured into reality television in 2019, starring in WEtv’s Growing Up Hip Hop alongside her daughter, Siaani Love.

Conclusion

Charli Baltimore is recognized as one of the pioneering female rappers of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Her presence in the male-dominated world of Hip Hop also contributed to greater visibility for women in the genre. She is celebrated for her lyrical ability and impressive delivery of bars despite her limited experience when she debuted. Throughout her career, Baltimore collaborated with prominent Hip Hop and R&B artists. She is a part of the late ‘90s Hip Hop legacy and should be much more appreciated.

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Bad Boy Artist Mark Curry Isn’t Impressed By Diddy Signing Over Publishing Rights

September 6, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Earlier this week, it was announced that Diddy was giving publishing rights back to many of the artists on his Bad Boys label. The LOX, Ma$e, Faith Evans, 112, and the estate of The Notorious B.I.G. are all expected to have the publishing rights to their music returned to them. The announcement was foreshadowed by Ma$e’s podcast co-host Cam’ron who broke the news on Instagram that Ma$e would be getting his rights back.

As it turns out, not every rapper involved is happy with the arrangement. One of the label’s former artists Mark Curry, is calling the move an empty gesture. He posted a video to Instagram reacting to the move. In the video, he claims that Diddy held onto the rights for as long as they had value and then signed them over after. “That’s disrespectful. I said why don’t you just keep it and pay me? I don’t want the publishing; I want the money,” he said in the video. He elaborated in the caption. “Diddy gave the publishing back.:. So what.. it has no value… I want him to give me a million cash and then I can plan the rest of my life out well,” it reads. Check out the full post below.

Mark Curry Calls Out Diddy For Rights Move

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While some of Diddy’s own artists may be dissolution with him, he still receives plenty of industry love. It was just announced this week that he would be honored with the Global Icon award at next week’s MTV VMAs. The award will be accompanied by a performance from the rap legend.

That appearance comes at a good time as Diddy just announced his feature-packed new album. The project will contain the final ever feature from The Weeknd alongside a number of other impressive collaborations. It’s also scheduled to be released just a few days after the award ceremony. What do you think of Mark Curry’s criticisms of Diddy? Let us know in the comment section below.

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Diddy And Jermaine Dupri’s ‘Verzuz’ Battle Finally Has A Release Date And A Venue

May 8, 2023 by newhiphopnews

The long-awaited return of Verzuz is upon us, and the comeback event will ensure it’s well worth the wait. After a nearly year-long hiatus since the last event, which featured R&B stars Mario and Omarion, Verzuz will return on September 8, pitting superproducers Diddy and Jermaine Dupri against each other in a matchup the duo previously confirmed in October. On Sunday, Busta Rhymes posted a video to his Instagram Story in which Diddy confirmed the next Verzuz date and promised to have Busta “in the rafters” of Madison Square Garden, “flying out the sky.”

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No doubt, Diddy’s gift for showmanship will serve him well at the next Verzuz, which he initially refused to do as a result of Swizz Beatz and Timbaland’s lawsuit against Triller. However, it seems once the Verzuz founders reached a settlement with the streamer, all bets were back on the table. The battle between the Bad Boy Records and So So Def founders could see appearances from the likes of former Verzuz participants The Lox, Mase, Mary J Blige, and more on Diddy’s side, while JD could tap Bow Wow, Da Brat, and a string of JD’s collaborators including Ludacris, Usher, Monica, and more. You can find more info at VerzuzTV.com.

Diddy’s Reign: Best Bad Boy Records Hits

April 14, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Bad Boy Records is one of the most iconic labels of all time. Home to arguably the greatest rappers, The Notorious B.I.G., the New York label has racked up hits. In the late ’90s to mid-2000s, Bad Boy controlled the game. With artists like 112, Craig Mack, Mase, The LOX, and Faith Evans, Puff Daddy, as he was known back then, took the label to new heights.

In what is Diddy’s biggest song to date, “I’ll Be Missing You” recently garnered much attention. Famed rockstar Sting was on Power 105.1’s The Breakfast Club in 2018, where he admitted that Diddy pays him $2,000 daily for sampling his song for the tribute track. Diddy sampled Police’s 1983 song, “Every Breath You Take.” After going viral, Puff returned to say he actually pays $5,000 per day but later admitted he was joking.

Regardless, Bad Boy Records’ catalog continues to dominate playlists. The label has been studied and dissected for decades, so here are our choices for the best records Bad Boy has released.

10. “Whoa!”- Black Rob

”Whoa!” is one of those songs that you can’t forget. Black Rob easily made one of the best songs in the 2000s. The Harlem native dropped two albums under Bad Boy, Life Story, and The Black Rob Report. ”Whoa!” appeared on Life Story, a certified platinum album.

9. “Peaches & Cream” – 112

112 is one of the best groups R&B has seen. When you think of the group, “Peaches & Cream” instantly comes to mind. It was one of the biggest records of the 2000s. The song was nominated for a Grammy in 2002. ”Peaches & Cream” was up for the prestigious award in the Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. That year, “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child took home the gramophone trophy. ”Peaches & Cream” stayed in the Top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for over six months.

8. “Hypnotize” – The Notorious B.I.G.

Known as one of the greatest Hip Hop songs of all time, “Hypnotize” was the last song we heard from Biggie. He was killed a week after releasing the track. ”Hypnotize” landed in the No. 2 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. At the 1998 Grammys, Big was nominated for Best Rap Solo Performance for the hit record. ”Men in Black” by Will Smith won that category that year. The song reached international success as “Hypnotize” was the Brooklyn MC’s first Top 10 hit in the United Kingdom. It went 2x platinum in the U.K. and platinum in the United States.

7. “I’ll Be Missing You” – Puff Daddy ft. Faith Evans & 112

This is easily Diddy’s best song. In “I’ll Be Missing You,” the Bad Boy founder reminisces on his late friend, The Notorious B.I.G. He grabs Faith Evans, Biggie’s wife, to sing the hook while 112 contributes vocals in the background. Diddy made a relatable song about losing someone he truly loved. We all can relate to death, making this song popular worldwide. Sauce Money reportedly wrote Diddy’s verses after Jay-Z turned it down.

”I’ll Be Missing You” won a Grammy in 1998 for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group. It also spent 11 weeks in the No. 1 spot, giving Diddy & Bad Boy another hit. As discussed earlier, Diddy said he paid Sting $5,000 daily royalties for the song, but ultimately that wasn’t true.

6. “I Need A Girl (Part One)” – Puff Daddy ft. Loon & Usher

Diddy made a real heartbreak anthem with “I Need A Girl (Part One).” It was one of the best songs of the 2000s. During this time, he was going through a breakup with Jennifer Lopez. Diddy has been open about this time in his life as he was in a dark place after his split with the Maid in Manhattan actress. The third verse in the song is mostly about her. Usher nails the chorus while Loon delivers on his verse.

5. “One More Chance (Remix)”- The Notorious B.I.G. ft. Mary J. Blige & Faith Evans

Biggie made a smooth hit with “One More Chance (Remix).” The video was just as fun as the song, with many people making appearances. Big also had multiple people singing the chorus, even radio host Miss Jones. This song and video defined the ’90s as Big captivated the era’s sound, style, and music. Another hit for Bad Boy as they were running the ’90s.

4. “Flava In Ya Ear (Remix)”-Craig Mack ft. The Notorious B.I.G., LL Cool J, Busta Rhymes

Craig Mack will always be remembered for “Flava In Ya Ear.” He even scored a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Solo Performance in 1995. The remix is what made people pay attention. Craig Mack got on a track with three other heavyweights in Biggie, LL COOL J, and Busta Rhymes—and did his thing! ”Flava In Ya Ear” is one of those songs you must mention when discussing ’90s Hip Hop.

3. “Big Poppa” – The Notorious B.I.G.

”I love it when you call me Big Poppa.” That line is one of the most infamous lyrics in Hip Hop. Though “Juicy” was a big hit, “Big Poppa” earned The Notorious B.I.G. a Grammy nomination. It lost Best Rap Solo Performance in 1996 to “Gangsta’s Paradise” by Coolio. ”Big Poppa” was a popular song throughout the entertainment world. It was repeatedly sampled in movies, TV shows, and commercials. Once again, Big has one of the best songs on Bad Boy and one of the best in Hip Hop history.

2. “Mo Money Mo Problems” – The Notorious B.I.G. ft. Mase & Puff Daddy

”Mo Money, Mo Problems” is one of the biggest Hip Hop songs ever. The video is pretty iconic as well. The way they flipped Diana Ross’ “I’m Coming Out” can’t go unnoticed. ”Mo Money Mo Problems” was released after Biggie’s death, to which he set another record. He is the only artist in music history to have two No. 1 posthumous hits. The song received a Grammy nomination in 1998 for Best Rap Performance By a Duo or Group.

1. “Juicy” – The Notorious B.I.G.

An unforgettable track from The Notorious B.I.G. is still a favorite decades after its release. Bad Boy took off with Biggie, and “Juicy” was Big’s first official introduction to the mainstream world. After initially not wanting to do the record, Diddy assured him this would be life-changing. And the rest is history!

Though Diddy founded Bad Boy, The Notorious B.I.G. carried the label on his shoulders. Without Big, there might not be a Bad Boy. He’s the reason the label will forever be remembered. Let us know your favorite Bad Boy song in the comments.

Dawn Richard Claims Diddy Didn’t Think Danity Kane Could Outsell Cassie

February 14, 2023 by newhiphopnews

They were a girl group that stormed the industry after being constructed by Sean “Diddy” Combs, but Dawn Richard is giving insight into the trials of Danity Kane. Richard was a singer in the quintet that took over the charts after coming together on Making the Band. The reality series followed hopefuls looking for their big break. Diddy and his team not only chose each singer but they documented the process of whipping them into shape. All these years later, many of the ladies have spoken out against their time on the show.

Dawn Richard has continued her career as a solo artist and creative. She’s continued to release music, and in a new interview, she revealed the Bad Boy “didn’t believe” in Danity Kane. “We were a show,” Richard told FashionXRadio. “Puff saw money. He saw ratings. MTV, that was where the money was. Danity Kane was just a concept of something bigger. He had no clue we were gonna be that big.”