The Notorious B.I.G., also known by his stage names Biggie Smalls and Biggie, was one of hip hop’s greatest and most influential MCs. Known for his clever wordplay and storytelling ability, Biggie left behind a legacy of iconic songs and verses, as well as countless memorable Biggie Smalls quotes. Whether offering words of wisdom about life, love, and hustle or vividly portraying the gritty streets of Brooklyn, Biggie’s lyrics have resonated with fans around the world.
Who was Biggie Smalls?
A Brief biography of Biggie Smalls
Christopher Wallace, known by his stage name Biggie Smalls, was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1972. He grew up in a poor neighborhood where he was exposed to violence and crime at a young age. How Biggie Smalls’ Early Life Defined His Rap Career – Biography (Bio.)
Biggie started dealing drugs as a teenager to make money. He eventually decided to pursue a career in hip hop music instead. In 1992, he was discovered by Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs at a backyard party in Brooklyn. Combs signed Biggie to his new label Bad Boy Records.
In 1994, Biggie released his debut album “Ready to Die” which was a commercial success and cemented his status as a rap icon. Songs like “Juicy” and “Big Poppa” highlighted his storytelling abilities and laidback flow. Biggie Smalls – Songs, Death & Tupac – Biography (Bio.)
By the mid-1990s, Biggie had become one of the most famous rappers in the world and was at the forefront of the East Coast–West Coast hip hop rivalry. Tragically, he was murdered in 1997 at just 24 years old in a drive-by shooting that remains unsolved.
Iconic Biggie Smalls Quotes
The most famous quotes and lyrics from his songs
A few of Biggie’s most memorable quotes include:
“I’m living everyday like a hustle, another drug to juggle” – This lyric from the song “Juicy” references Biggie’s past dealing drugs and hustling to make money on the streets.
“I never sleep, cause sleep is the cousin of death” – This famous line from “Ten Crack Commandments” emphasizes Biggie’s relentless work ethic and drive to succeed in the rap game. The Meaning Behind Biggie’s “Ten Crack Commandments” Lyrics – Far Out Magazine
“Me and my girlfriend, sipping wine in the back of my ride trying to find a way that we can fit, cause every day she says she can’t fit” – These playful lyrics from “Hypnotize” capture Biggie’s charismatic swagger and way with words.
“I keep on truckin’ like I’m in a 18-wheeler” – This line from “Juicy” paints a vivid image of Biggie’s relentless hustle and determination to succeed no matter the obstacles in his path.
The meaning and significance of these quotes
Here is an analysis of the meaning and significance of the Biggie Smalls quotes within the context of his life and career:
The quote “I’m living everyday like a hustle, another drug to juggle” from “Juicy” takes on deeper significance in the context of Biggie’s early life. He grew up surrounded by violence, crime, and the drug trade in Brooklyn in the 1980s. Selling drugs was how he made money as a teenager just trying to survive on the streets. This line reflects how he had to constantly hustle and take risks to earn a living through illegal means in his youth.
The famous line “I never sleep, cause sleep is the cousin of death” from “Ten Crack Commandments” takes on added layers of meaning given Biggie’s tragic end. As a rising rap star, he knew he had to work tirelessly to achieve his dreams of fame and fortune. But the line also hints at the dangerous, high-risk lifestyle he led being involved in the drug game. Tragically, his untimely death at just 24 emphasized how that lifestyle could catch up to him all too soon.
The playful lyrics about intimacy with his girlfriend in “Hypnotize” stand in contrast to his hardscrabble upbringing. They represent Biggie enjoying the spoils of success and living in the moment. But they also speak to his charisma and ability to craft vivid yet playful stories in his rhymes.
The line “I keep on truckin’ like I’m in a 18-wheeler” from “Juicy” takes on an inspirational tone given Biggie’s rise from the streets of Brooklyn to the top of the rap world. No matter the obstacles, he kept relentlessly pursuing his dreams with a blue-collar work ethic. This line encapsulates Biggie’s grit, hustle and determination to make something of himself through his talents.
Inspirational and Thought-Provoking Biggie Smalls Quotes
Biggie Smalls Quotes that carry themes of inspiration, motivation and life lessons
One example comes from the song “Everyday Struggle” – “The more you do right, the less you gotta explain.” This quote emphasizes the importance of making good choices and avoiding unnecessary drama. It encourages living authentically without having to justify your actions.
In “Juicy,” Biggie raps “I’m out for presidents to represent me.” This line inspires people to chase their dreams big and stay ambitious no matter where they come from. Like Biggie coming from the projects in Brooklyn to become a rap icon, this quote encourages pushing past limits and representing yourself on a grand stage.
One of Biggie’s most enduring quotes is “Sky’s the limit and space is the place.” This mantra, from the song “Unbelievable,” motivates listeners to aim high and think beyond any perceived boundaries. It promotes limitless potential and thinking outside the box to achieve your goals.
Biggie also left behind powerful words about family in his music. In “Everyday Struggle,” he says “This rule is so underrated, keep your family and business completely separated.” This life lesson advises maintaining clear boundaries and priorities between personal and professional relationships. It’s a reminder of the importance of family even in the midst of success.
Real-Life examples of people who have been positively impacted by Biggie Smalls Quotes
Here are some real-life examples of people who have been positively impacted by Biggie Smalls’ words:
- Kendrick Lamar has cited Biggie as a major influence and said the line “I’m living everyday like a hustle” from “Juicy” inspired him to pursue music seriously. The message of hustling resonated with Lamar as he strived to make it in the industry.
- J. Cole has said Biggie’s lyrics and work ethic motivated him as an aspiring rapper. He was drawn to Biggie’s authenticity and storytelling abilities. Cole tries to emulate Biggie’s relentless drive in his own career.
- Chance the Rapper has called Biggie one of his biggest role models and said listening to songs like “Juicy” in high school pushed him to drop out and pursue his dreams of becoming a rapper. Biggie showed him the potential of hip hop to change one’s life.
- The Notorious B.I.G. is credited with influencing the sound of modern hip hop and later artists like Drake. Songs like “Juicy” and “Hypnotize” demonstrated how rap music could blend storytelling and singable melodies. This impacted the career trajectories of many rappers who followed.
- Fans worldwide have drawn motivation from Biggie’s rags-to-riches story of rising out of poverty and danger in Brooklyn through his talents. His music continues to inspire people to chase ambitions against all odds through relentless hard work.
Controversial and Contested Quotes
Controversal and Contested Quotes attributed to Biggie Smalls
Biggie Smalls is known for his powerful lyrics and memorable quotes. Some of these quotes, however, have been deemed controversial or contested, and have sparked debates amongst fans. One such quote that has been both admired and debated is, “You need to treat yourself like you the one you love.” This quote could be interpreted as a call to love yourself or as a call to prioritize your own well-being over others.
Another quote that has drawn attention is from his songs in which he made mention of “96 is the year of love.” Some people interpreted this as a prediction of an upcoming shift in the music and societal landscape, while others questioned the authenticity of this claim.
Debates and Discussions surrounding these quotes and their potential misinterpretation
It’s not uncommon for quotes from influential figures to spark lively discussions and debates. In the case of Biggie Smalls, the disagreements often revolve around the intended meaning of the quotes. For example, when it comes to “You need to treat yourself like you the one you love,” some individuals argue that it’s a reflection of the rapper’s own self-love, while others consider it a call to put yourself first.
The debates surrounding these quotes are a testament to the lasting legacy of Biggie’s music and the way his words continue to resonate with fans.
Understanding the various nuances can help you appreciate the wisdom and depth of his lyrics and statements. Remember, love is always a key theme in his work, and it’s up to you to decide how to interpret and apply that concept in your own life.
Biggie Smalls quotes in Pop Culture
How Biggie Smalls quotes have been used and referenced in popular culture
His thought-provoking and catchy lyrics not only resonate with people, but also carry deep meanings about life, family, and hustling. You’ve probably heard his famous line, “We can’t change the world unless we change ourselves,” a powerful message about personal growth and taking responsibility for our own actions.
The Notorious B.I.G.’s quotes have been popularized in various forms of media such as movies, TV shows, and social media, making them timeless expressions of wisdom. For example, in the TV series “Luke Cage,” one of the main characters quotes Biggie Smalls to emphasize the importance of respect, saying, “Spread love, it’s the Brooklyn way.” This meaningful line showcases the impact Biggie’s lyrics have on society, teaching people the importance of spreading love and positivity.
Examples and references to their usage
Biggie Smalls quotes can also be found in music, where other artists pay homage to him by referencing or including his lyrics in their songs. This respect towards Biggie is a testament to his everlasting influence on hip-hop culture. Here are some examples of his quotes in songs:
- Jay-Z, in his song “Brooklyn’s Finest”: “If I shoot you, I’m brainless/ But if you shoot me, then you’re famous/ What’s a n**** to do?”
- Nicki Minaj, in her track “All Things Go”: “I wonder if I died, would tears come to her eyes? Forgive me for my disrespect, forgive me for my lies.”
In the realm of social media, you’ll often see Biggie Smalls quotes shared as motivational messages or memes. His words about perseverance, family, and hustling continue to inspire people to strive for success. For example, you might have seen the quote, “Another day, another struggle,” on someone’s Instagram post, reminding us all to keep pushing forward despite the challenges life throws our way.
How to use Biggie Smalls Quotes
How you can incorporate Biggie Smalls Quotes in your daily life
As a true hustler, his quotes can teach you valuable lessons about money, success, and perseverance. To incorporate these quotes into your daily routine, you can start by selecting your favorite quotes and jotting them down in your journal.
Reading these quotes each morning will set the tone for your day. Another great way to imbibe Biggie’s wisdom into your life is by making it part of your conversations with friends and family. Share your favorite quotes with them, and discuss how they might apply to your life or any current situation.
You can use these quotes as a reminder for yourself in difficult times. Remind yourself of Biggie’s saying, “Another day, another struggle,” when times get tough, and channel your inner hustler to overcome hardships.
Tips for effectively using these quotes for motivation, social media, or personal reflection
- Motivation: Print out your favorite Biggie Smalls quotes, and place them in spots where you’ll see them frequently, such as on your desk, refrigerator, or bathroom mirror. A constant reminder of his wisdom can be a driving force in your hustle for success.
- Social media: Share his quotes on your social media platforms to inspire your followers. Use eye-catching visuals and engaging captions to draw attention to the message. Remember Biggie’s quote, “You know very well who you are, don’t let ’em hold you down, reach for the stars,” to encourage others to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams.
- Personal reflection: Set aside some time each day for personal reflection, and use Biggie Smalls quotes as prompts for insight. Consider how his experiences with money and being a hustler relate to your own life and the progress you’ve made. Be aware of any changes you could implement to improve your status and financial stability.
The Legacy of Biggie Smalls
His continuing influence on the music industry and hip-hop culture
Biggie Smalls’ legacy goes beyond his lyrics and quotes – his influence on the music industry and hip-hop culture continues to thrive today. You can still hear echos of his unique style and flow in modern hip-hop, as well as in the fashion and attitudes that permeate the culture.
One of the lessons you can learn from Biggie is the importance of not holding onto grudges and negative energy. He has a quote that says, “Learn to treat life to the best, put stress to rest.” Embrace this friendly advice in your everyday life, and it can help you navigate through difficult moments with resilience and optimism.
Personal Opinion on Biggie Smalls Quotes
As an early 90’s kid, I noticed the full discussion about the murdering of Biggie Smalls. It was horrible to see that a young guy passed away. Anyway his songs and lyrics never left us. The Biggie Smalls Quotes are still famous and they help a lot people to discover themselves or to get motivated.
My favorite quote is the following one: “Damn right. I like the life I live, cause I went from negative to positive.” It shows me that life is much better when you stop being negative and change your mind into a positive way. If you want to stop complaining, read through my blog post about complaining quotes and start reflecting.
Who was Biggie Smalls and why are his quotes famous?
Biggie Smalls was a renowned American rapper and songwriter. His quotes are famous because they often contained clever wordplay, vivid storytelling, and reflections of his life experiences. He is considered one of the greatest lyricist in hip-hop history, and his quotes continue to inspire and resonate with fans and artists alike.
What are some iconic Biggie Smalls quotes and their meanings?
Biggie Smalls hat numerous iconic quotes in his songs that carry deep meanings. Some examples include “it was all a dream,” which reflects his journey from poverty to fame, and “Mo money, mo problems,” highlighting the challenges that come with success.
Where can I find a collection of Biggie Smalls quotes?
You can find a collection of Biggie Smalls quotes in various places, including books, websites, and social media platforms. In the blog post, we will provide recommendations for reputable sources and websites where you can explore Biggie Smalls quotes.
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