Biggie Smalls, also known as The Notorious B.I.G., left a mark on the world of music that still shines bright today. His songs are more than just tunes; they tell stories, bring energy, and have a beat that gets people moving. He was a master at mixing words and rhythm to create something special.
This article lists some of the most memorable tracks from The Notorious B.I.G. that made him a legend. These songs are loved by many and have stood the test of time. From hits that made waves on the charts to deep cuts that fans treasure, we’ve got them lined up for you. So let’s take a walk down memory lane and celebrate the powerful music of Biggie Smalls.
1. Juicy
“Juicy” is not just a song; it’s a hip-hop anthem that tells the rags-to-riches story of The Notorious B.I.G. himself. Its smooth beat and catchy chorus have made it a timeless classic. In this track, Biggie shares his journey from the streets of Brooklyn to fame. The lyrics are a mix of raw honesty and clever wordplay, showcasing his unique style. It’s a song that inspires many, proving that with hard work, even the toughest dreams can come true.
2. Big Poppa
“Big Poppa” is a smooth hit from The Notorious B.I.G., showcasing his laid-back flow and storytelling skills. The song samples the Isley Brothers’ “Between the Sheets,” creating a relaxed vibe. It was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and earning Biggie a Grammy nomination. The track remains a fan favorite, capturing the essence of ’90s hip-hop with its catchy hook and Biggie’s signature style.
3. Hypnotize
“Hypnotize” is one of The Notorious B.I.G.’s most iconic tracks, known for its catchy beat and smooth flow. Released in 1997, just weeks before Biggie’s untimely death, this song showcases his storytelling skill and cool confidence. Its sample of Herb Alpert’s “Rise” creates an infectious rhythm that hooks listeners instantly. The music video, featuring a high-speed boat chase, added to its appeal, making “Hypnotize” a classic in hip-hop playlists and a chart-topping hit that still gets people nodding their heads today.
4. Mo Money Mo Problems (ft. Puff Daddy & Mase)
“Mo Money Mo Problems” features The Notorious B.I.G. alongside Puff Daddy and Mase. This hit song discusses how having more money can lead to more issues. With its catchy hook and smooth flow, it became a chart-topper after Biggie’s passing. The music video is famous for its shiny suits and flashy visuals, and the track samples Diana Ross’s “I’m Coming Out.” It remains a classic in hip-hop culture and continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
5. One More Chance / Stay with Me (Remix)
The remix of “One More Chance / Stay with Me” took The Notorious B.I.G.’s already smooth flow and added a fresh, catchy beat. This track samples DeBarge’s “Stay with Me” and showcases Biggie’s storytelling skills, as he raps about his relationships and appeal. Featuring Faith Evans and Mary J. Blige, the song became a massive hit and remains a fan favorite. It climbed the charts and is often hailed as a classic in hip-hop circles for its blend of soulful melodies and sharp lyrics.
6. Notorious Thugs (ft. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony)
“Notorious Thugs” is a unique track where The Notorious B.I.G. joins forces with Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. Biggie matches the rapid-fire flow of the Cleveland group, showcasing his versatility. This collaboration resulted in a smooth blend of East Coast and Midwest rap styles. Fans love the song for its lyrical prowess and the seamless meshing of distinct hip-hop flavors. It’s a standout moment in Biggie’s career, proving his ability to adapt and shine alongside other rap legends.
7. Gimme the Loot
“Gimme the Loot” showcases The Notorious B.I.G.’s storytelling skills as he raps about the struggles and ambitions of a street hustler. With its raw lyrics and hard-hitting beats, the song paints a vivid picture of New York City’s tough streets. Biggie’s ability to switch between two personas in the track highlights his lyrical prowess. The song remains a classic in hip-hop for its honest depiction of the hustle and the hunger for success.
8. Nasty Girl
“Nasty Girl” showcases The Notorious B.I.G.’s smooth flow and storytelling skills. The track features catchy beats and guest verses from Diddy, Nelly, Jagged Edge, and Avery Storm. It was released posthumously in 2005, becoming a hit that blended Biggie’s classic style with a modern twist. The song’s theme revolves around lavish lifestyles and parties, capturing the essence of hip-hop’s glamour and excess during the early 2000s.
9. Who Shot Ya?
“Who Shot Ya?” is a track that stirred up a lot of talk when it came out. Many thought it was a shot at Tupac Shakur, but Biggie said it wasn’t about him. The song showcases Biggie’s smooth flow and sharp lyrics. It’s a hardcore rap with a beat that sticks in your head. This song remains a classic in hip-hop history and shows Biggie’s skill in storytelling. It’s one of those tracks that fans and critics alike praise for its raw energy and bold rhymes.
10. Kick in the Door
“Kick in the Door” is a fierce track by The Notorious B.I.G. that shows off his sharp lyrical skills. With a beat produced by DJ Premier, the song is known for its hard-hitting lines and Biggie’s smooth flow. It’s a diss track aimed at several rappers at the time, and fans often praise it for its clever wordplay. The song samples “I Put a Spell on You” by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, adding a haunting touch to the track’s aggressive vibe.
11. Ten Crack Commandments
“Ten Crack Commandments” is a masterclass in street-smart wisdom, set to a catchy beat. In this song, The Notorious B.I.G. lays out rules for those involved in the drug game. His sharp lyrics offer a raw look at the dos and don’ts of street life, reflecting his own experiences. With a blend of humor and seriousness, Biggie’s storytelling shines, making it a memorable track that resonates beyond its era. It’s not just a song; it’s a lesson in survival, wrapped in the rhythm of hip-hop.
12. Sky’s the Limit (ft. 112)
“Sky’s the Limit” features smooth vocals from R&B group 112 and showcases The Notorious B.I.G.’s storytelling prowess. The track, from his second album, offers listeners a glimpse into Biggie’s dreams and his rise from hardship to success. The song’s positive message encourages people to aim high and believe in their potential, despite the challenges they might face. Its catchy beat and uplifting lyrics have cemented it as a classic in Biggie’s discography, inspiring many with its hopeful narrative.
13. Everyday Struggle
“Everyday Struggle” takes us through the ups and downs of street life with raw honesty. The Notorious B.I.G. tells a story of trying to make ends meet and the challenges that come with it. His smooth flow over a laid-back beat gives the song a relaxed feel, despite the serious subject matter. Biggie’s storytelling skills shine as he paints a vivid picture of his daily battles. The track remains a classic, resonating with fans who appreciate its realness and Biggie’s undeniable talent.
14. Going Back to Cali
“Going Back to Cali” showcases The Notorious B.I.G.’s love-hate relationship with the West Coast. In this laid-back track, Biggie weighs the pros and cons of the California lifestyle with smooth flows over a funky beat. Despite the East Coast-West Coast rivalry, Biggie’s storytelling paints a picture of Cali’s allure, from the sunny beaches to the party scene. This song captures the complexity of his feelings, making it a classic in his discography.
15. Dead Wrong (ft. Eminem)
“Dead Wrong” pairs The Notorious B.I.G.’s deep, smooth flow with Eminem’s sharp, quick verses in a posthumous release. The track features unreleased verses from Biggie and showcases the raw storytelling talent of both rappers. Despite the grim subject matter, their lyrical skills shine, creating a memorable and hard-hitting collaboration. The song’s beat samples “I’m Glad You’re Mine” by Al Green, adding a soulful touch to the intense lyrics. Fans of both artists often praise this song for its powerful delivery and the unique pairing of two hip-hop legends.
16. Machine Gun Funk
“Machine Gun Funk” showcases The Notorious B.I.G.’s signature flow and storytelling prowess. With its smooth beat and catchy samples, the song paints a vivid picture of street life and Biggie’s early hustling days. It’s a track that has fans nodding their heads to the intricate rhymes and the effortless way Biggie weaves words into a rhythmic masterpiece. This song is a testament to his impact on hip-hop and his skill as an MC.
17. I Got a Story to Tell
“I Got a Story to Tell” showcases The Notorious B.I.G.’s talent for weaving tales with his rhymes. This track tells a gripping story of a risky encounter with a New York Knicks player’s girlfriend. Biggie’s smooth flow and the laid-back beat pull you into the narrative. It’s a testament to his skill as a storyteller in hip-hop. Fun fact: the identity of the Knicks player mentioned in the song remained a mystery for years until it was finally revealed by another rapper, Fat Joe.
18. Warning
“Warning” is one of The Notorious B.I.G.’s most gripping tracks, known for its vivid storytelling and intense lyrics. In this song, Biggie receives a phone call alerting him to a planned robbery against him, setting the stage for a tense narrative. The smooth beat contrasts with the serious message about the dangers of street life and betrayal. It showcases Biggie’s skill as a rapper who could paint a vivid picture with his words, making listeners feel as if they’re part of the story.
19. Suicidal Thoughts
“Suicidal Thoughts” is one of the darkest tracks from The Notorious B.I.G.’s debut album. The song features Biggie in a raw and vulnerable state, sharing his inner battles with depression and thoughts of self-harm. With a chilling phone conversation framing the lyrics, the track captures a deep sense of despair. It remains a powerful reflection on mental health struggles, showcasing Biggie’s storytelling skills and the serious themes he addressed in his music.
20. The What (ft. Method Man)
“The What” is a track that showcases a rare collaboration between The Notorious B.I.G. and Wu-Tang Clan’s Method Man. Both rappers deliver sharp verses over a gritty beat. Fans love the back-and-forth flow and clever wordplay. This song is a highlight of Biggie’s debut album, “Ready to Die.” It’s often praised for its raw energy and is a must-listen for hip-hop enthusiasts seeking pure lyrical skill.
21. Ready to Die
“Ready to Die” is the title track from The Notorious B.I.G.’s debut album. With raw lyrics and a gritty flow, Biggie tells a story about the struggles of street life and the mindset of someone with nothing to lose. The honesty in his voice paired with a captivating beat makes this track a highlight in his career. It shows his ability to blend storytelling with the harsh realities of his experiences, leaving a lasting impact on hip-hop.
22. Unbelievable
“Unbelievable” showcases The Notorious B.I.G.’s sharp wit and storytelling prowess. Produced by DJ Premier, the track features a sample from R. Kelly’s “Your Body’s Callin’.” Biggie’s smooth flow over the jazzy beat creates a chill vibe as he raps about his life and success. It’s a fan favorite for its clever lyrics and catchy hook. This song is a prime example of Biggie’s skill in painting vivid pictures with words.
23. Things Done Changed
In “Things Done Changed,” The Notorious B.I.G. paints a vivid picture of life’s harsh realities in his Brooklyn neighborhood. Reflecting on the shift from a carefree childhood to a dangerous adult world, Biggie’s storytelling prowess is on full display. His sharp lyrics over a moody beat capture the drastic changes he witnessed. The song serves as an opening statement on his debut album, “Ready to Die,” setting the tone for a classic in hip-hop history.
24. Party and Bullshit
“Party and Bullshit” was the debut single from The Notorious B.I.G., released in 1993. This track showcases Biggie’s smooth flow and storytelling skills. It became an anthem for those looking to let loose and enjoy the party scene. Despite its laid-back vibe, the lyrics paint a picture of the rough street life Biggie experienced. The song has been sampled and referenced by many artists, cementing its place in hip-hop history.
25. What’s Beef?
“What’s Beef?” takes listeners on a journey through the gritty reality of street life and the serious nature of conflicts. Biggie’s smooth flow and storytelling skills shine as he defines what real beef is compared to minor disagreements. Released on his second album, this track is a stark reminder of the dangers in the rap game. The haunting beat and Biggie’s vivid lyrics paint a clear picture of the stakes involved when tensions turn into true hostility.
As we reach the end of our list of The Notorious B.I.G. songs, we hope you’ve enjoyed looking back at the tunes that made Biggie Smalls a legend. His music has left a strong mark on the world of hip-hop, telling stories of life, struggle, and success with beats that make you nod your head and lyrics that paint a picture in your mind.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or someone who’s just discovered his work, Biggie’s songs have a way of sticking with you. They have shaped the sound of a genre and given a voice to many. So, turn up the volume and let Biggie’s music fill the room. His legacy continues every time his tracks play.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the art of a true music icon. Keep listening and keep the spirit of Biggie alive in the songs we’ve shared. What’s your favorite Biggie song? Drop a comment and let us know!
