In Memory of Christopher Wallace

On this day 14 years ago, one of the greatest- if not the greatest- rappers of all time was gunned down in Los Angeles. Though B.I.G. died that night, the words he spoke echo to this day, inspiring and touching millions. He was blessed with a gift, which he in turn passed on to us. His appeal was universal. Just read the comments on any youtube video- there are people checking in from all over the world.

I still remember the day I bought Ready to Die. I thought it was just another album, one I'd listen to for a bit and then forget about. I bought it used, almost an afterthought. I didn't know that by the end of the week I'd know the words to every song, nor that I'd still know them to this day. "My man Inf left a tec and a nine at my crib..." You know the rest.

B.I.G. told stories that never got old, jokes that never got stale, and rapped with a flavor that is fresh to this day. Most importantly he was himself. He talked about what he knew, who he was, what he went through. And he did so with such honesty that we all could relate. He spoke with raw human emotion. No matter where you came from, he pulled you into his world and showed you what he saw. And we all learned from it. I, for one, was inspired by it.

So thanks, Big- and go easy on the "goodie goodies" up there.