Big Pappa Smooths Out Hip Hop

In the early 90s, New York hip hop was struggling to keep up with the rising popularity of the west coast sound. Dr Dre and Death Row Records were dominating the industry with groundbreaking albums like "The Chronic" and "DoggyStyle". Meanwhile, Tupac's breakout album "Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z" further solidified California's hold on the scene with hit records like "I Get Around".

But in 1994, New York struck back with two legendary albums: Nas' "Illmatic" and The Notorious B.I.G.'s debut album "Ready To Die". While both records showcased the signature boom bap sound that defined New York at the time, it was Biggie's track "Big Poppa" that really set him apart from the rest.

Sampling the Isley Brothers classic "Between The Sheets" and utilizing an Easy Mo Dee beat, "Big Poppa" allowed Biggie to explore a different side of his music. Instead of his usual assertive and hardcore sound, he opted for a smooth and conversational flow that felt like he was simply telling a story. It was a departure from his usual style, but it was one that solidified his crossover appeal.

The "Between The Sheets" sample was anything but understated, slowly building under the Moog synthesized melody and waiting to break out. When the piano and guitar came together to play that famous riff that launches both the verses and the chorus, it was clear that Biggie had created something special.

By combining an R&B sample with a west coast-inspired melody and changing his style to a smooth conversational flow, Biggie had solidified his star power. He was no longer just a typical New York rapper, but someone with incredible crossover appeal. This was a testament to the importance of the marriage between hip hop and R&B. R&B had the power to refine the rawness of hip hop into something that could be enjoyed by the masses.

"Big Poppa" remains one of the most beloved songs in Biggie's discography, and it's easy to see why. It's a testament to his creativity and versatility as an artist, and it's a reminder of just how powerful the marriage between hip hop and R&B can be.