Tuesday 9 September 2014

My Favourite Song

I have a long list of songs that I really enjoy listening to, like many other people. However, the one song that sticks out the most for me is "Juicy", The Notorious B.I.G's debut single released in 1994 which peaked at #1 on the Billboard charts.

"Juicy" is the track that made The Notorious B.I.G a legend in such short time, prior to his album "Ready To Die" which came out a month later. It's also one of the first mainstream rap songs to discuss a rapper's rise to the top, talking about his early years in poverty, dreams of being a rapper and paying respect to his early influences:"Salt-n-Pepa and Heavy D up in the limousine/Hangin' pictures on my wall/Every Saturday, Rap Attack, Mr. Magic, Marley Marl". He also speaks about the time he spent in crime and dealing drugs and the success he eventually gained within the music industry and realizing his dreams, alongside the lifestyle he was living at the time. The song was produced by Poke (of the Trackmasters) and the now legendary producer & DJ, Pete Rock. They sampled the classic Mtume record while also "sampling" the title "Juicy Fruit".

Over 20 years on, the song is still very much appreciated by many listeners and will continue to loved by many. It's also arguable that this song not only made The Notorious B.I.G a legend but also tells the story of how Hip Hop itself became popular.