It’s been 19 years today since the Notorious BIG passed away; although, it seems like yesterday for OG heads. Often included in the average MC’s top list, Biggie was a highly influential figure in the NYC scene, and was responsible for helping a lot of people solidify their names in the rap world. For the past (almost) two decades since his passing, many DJ’s have tried their hand at crafting remixes and re-working the (sadly) limited amount of material he left us with, attempting to give fans a new B.I.G experience. I’ve taken the liberty of rounding-up three of the best – and most creative – Biggie tapes I’ve come across.
“Rap Phenomenon”
DJ Vlad & DJ Dirty Harry
If you’ve never heard this tape, it easily stands as one of the finest – and most iconic – Notorious B.I.G mixtapes out there. This installment of their award winning “Rap Phenomenon” series was an example of both Vlad in his prime, almost a decade away from launching VladTV.com, and DJ Dirty Harry’s legendary blending. The two traded over forty mind-blowing original mixes; keep in mind, this was pre-torrent days, so their stock of Biggie accapellas was a big deal. Especially the (then) rare ones like “Cars Sex,” “Buddy X,” and “House Of Pain.”
“Best Of Notorious BIG”
DJ M-Rock
Award-winning Toronto DJ, M-Rock, has made massive noise over the past few years. He rocks parties as a resident DJ in the 6, had MTV nodding to his mixtapes, and had CNN mentioning his remixes. He’s received widespread blog love for his “Best Of” mixes, including Beastie Boys and Kanye West, but this Biggie mix is a sheer masterpiece. Unlike some of the mixes out there, it’s heavily cut up – making it an extremely original/exciting listen.
“The Notorious BIG Tribute”
DJ Drama & Cookin Soul
This one is more of a tribute in the literal sense. Drama and Cookin’ Soul rounded up a who’s who of NYC rappers, like Tek of Smiff N Wessun, Skyzoo, CL Smooth, Jean Grae, Uncle Murda and more. It features original and remixed production, as the artists pay tribute to one of the greatest to ever touch a mic.
Salute the king of Brooklyn.
