Big L’s ‘Lifestylez Ov Da Poor & Famous’ Turns 25

RIP to the legend.

Over 20-years-ago, hip-hop and the world lost the legendary Big L. Revered for his incredible punch lines and lyrical dexterity, the Harlem rapper was only able to release one album during his lifetime (the rest were released posthumously), Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous. Today (March 28th), that album turns 25.

A commercial and critical success, Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous is forever cemented in hip-hop lore, and is one of the defining albums of hip-hop’s “Golden Age.” Replete with countless metaphors, well-told stories, and a myriad of rewind-worthy bars, this iconic project helped make Big L the fabled figure who we still celebrate and miss to this day.

A 12-track project, Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous features classic hits like “Put It On” featuring Kid Carpi, “M.V.P.,” “Da Graveyard,” and so many more — well, an entire album worth of timeless tracks.

In honor of its 25-year anniversary, hit play on Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous below: