The Notorious B.I.G. solidified himself as an important rapper with his raw, confessional lyrics about life as a drug dealer-turned-hip-hop superstar. Though much of the rapper's prose focused on the harsh realities of his lifestyle, the real story of Notorious B.I.G. was one of transformation. While some may find Biggie's bravado and machismo off-putting, the persona was necessary for his visceral narrative of gang violence. Perhaps the most important part of Biggie's account is the complexity of where he was and where he went. The icon was a national success and established himself as a true artist in his early twenties. Extrapolating one's pain and misfortune to create timeless art is nothing short of brilliant, but finding success with that art is no small feat.
You may not find Biggie's boldness enticing, but everyone can relate to his underdog story. If you're looking for inspiration, look no further.
1. "If you don't love yourself I'll make you see your own heart."
2. "We can't change the world unless we change ourselves."
3. "Learn to treat life to the best, put stress to rest."
4. "You know very well who you are, don't let em hold you down, reach for the stars."
5. "Damn right I like the life I live because I went from negative to positive."
6. "Stay far from timid and only make moves when your hearts in it."
7. "The streets is a short stop. Either you're slinging crack rock or you got a wicked jump shot."
8. "Take a better stand. Put money in my mom’s hand. Get my daughter this college plan, so she don’t need no man."
9. "And everything you get, ya gotta work hard for it."
10. "As I open my eyes and realizin' I changed. Not the same deranged child stuck up in the game."
