The Notorious B.I.G. - “Ready to Die” cover art

Today marks the 25th anniversary of The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Ready to Die” album

The Notorious B.I.G. helped reinvent and revitalize East Coast hip-hop 25 years ago with his 1994 debut album, entitled, “Ready to Die”. Today, the classic album has been certified platinum six times. Also, “Ready to Die” is regarded as one of the best hip-hop albums ever made.

The Notorious B.I.G. – “Ready to Die” 25th Anniversary Edition

The Notorious B.I.G. - “Ready to Die” 25th Anniversary Edition

After earning acclaim for his guest appearances on other artists’ songs, Biggie (born Christopher Wallace) began recording his own album in New York City in 1993. ‘Ready to Die,’ completed in 1994, was released via Bad Boy Records. Also, the album was mainly an autobiographical album that showcases B.I.G.’s immaculate storytelling. The 17-track project explores B.I.G.’s life and experiences as a drug dealer. Also, it takes listeners on a journey that spans from B.I.G.’s birth, his time on the streets, and ultimately ends with his death.

The Notorious B.I.G. – “Juicy” music video

The album’s first single, entitled, “Juicy”, was certified gold. Also, it reached #3 on the Hot Rap Singles chart, crossing over to the Billboard Hot 100 chart to peak at #27. The second single, “Big Poppa”, was an even bigger hit and reached certified platinum status.

The Notorious B.I.G. – “Big Poppa” music video

‘Big Poppa’ topped the Rap and R&B charts and reached #6 on the Hot 100. Also, it was nominated for a Grammy® Award for Best Rap Solo Performance. A remix of “One More Chance” once again topped the Rap and R&B charts while peaking at #2 on the Hot 100.

The Notorious B.I.G. – “One More Chance” music video

‘Ready to Die’ was the only studio album released by The Notorious B.I.G. He was killed on March 9, 1997, just 16 days before the release of his second album, entitled, “Life After Death“.

“Life After Death” via Apple Music

Rhino, in partnership with GetOnDown.com, honors this groundbreaking album with a new limited-edition boxed set that features every song on the album. Also, it includes two bonus tracks on nine 7″ colored-vinyl singles (black, white, and red vinyl).

The Notorious B.I.G. – “Ready to Die” 25th Anniversary Edition

The Notorious B.I.G. - “Ready to Die” 25th Anniversary Edition

The edition includes a booklet filled with liner notes by Kathy Iandoli, a veteran hip-hop journalist and author. Also, the boxes include never-before-seen photos from the era. Furthermore, (the album producers) Mo Bee and Chucky Thompson provide exclusive stories.

The Notorious B.I.G. – “Ready to Die” 25th Anniversary Singles Boxed Set

The limited-edition individually numbered boxed set is available on GetOnDown.com in partnership with Rhino.

Vinyl Track Listing:

The Notorious B.I.G. - “Ready to Die” 25th Anniversary Edition + Back cover

We recommended adding The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Ready to Die 25th Anniversary Edition” album to your personal playlist. Also, let us know how you feel about it in the comment section below.


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