Big L | |
|---|---|
 Big L in 1998 | |
| Background information | |
| Birth name | Lamont Coleman |
| Also known as | L Corleone |
| Born | May 30, 1974 New York City, U.S. |
| Died | February 15, 1999 (aged 24) New York City, U.S. |
| Genres | East Coast hip hop |
| Occupations |
|
| Years active | 1992–1999 |
| Labels | |
Lamont Coleman (May 30, 1974 – February 15, 1999), known professionally as Big L, was an American rapper.[1] Emerging from Harlem in New York City in 1992, Big L became known among underground hip-hop fans for his freestyling ability. He was eventually signed to Columbia Records, where, in 1995, he released his debut album, Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous. On February 15, 1999, he was fatally shot nine times in a drive-by shooting in Harlem.
Big L was noted for his use of wordplay, and writers at AllMusic, HipHopDX and The Source have praised him for his lyrical ability.[2][3] Henry Adaso described him as "one of the most talented poets in hip-hop history."[4]
In an interview with Funkmaster Flex, Nas claimed Big L "scared me to death. When I heard [his performance at the Apollo Theater] on tape, I was scared to death. I said, 'Yo, it's no way I can compete if this is what I gotta compete with.'"[5]
- ^ "Today in hip hop history: Big L was shot and killed 22 years ago". The Source. February 15, 2021. Archived from the original on June 12, 2021. Retrieved June 17, 2021.
- ^ "The Source: Top 50 Lyricists [Magazine Scans]". Genius. Archived from the original on September 12, 2015. Retrieved April 8, 2019.
- ^ Henry Adaso. "10 Great Rappers Who Died Too Young". About.com Entertainment. Archived from the original on December 5, 2016. Retrieved May 1, 2018.
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