Big L - Lifestylez ov da Poor and Dangerous vs. Nas - Illmatic

Attribute	Big L - Lifestylez ov da Poor and Dangerous	Nas - Illmatic
Release Year	1995	1994
Main Artist	Big L	Nas
Number of Tracks	15	10
Popular Singles	"Put It On", "MVP"	"N.Y. State of Mind", "The World Is Yours"
Production	Various producers	Mainly produced by DJ Premier

Introduction

Big L's "Lifestylez ov da Poor and Dangerous" and Nas's "Illmatic" are two classic albums in the realm of hip-hop. Both albums were released in the mid-1990s and are considered to be some of the best works in the genre. While both artists hail from New York City and share a similar era of influence, their albums showcase different styles and themes that set them apart from each other.

Lyricism

Big L is known for his intricate wordplay and clever punchlines, which are evident throughout "Lifestylez ov da Poor and Dangerous." His ability to paint vivid pictures with his lyrics and deliver them with a smooth flow is a standout feature of the album. On the other hand, Nas's "Illmatic" is praised for its introspective and poetic lyrics that delve into the realities of life in the streets of New York City. Nas's storytelling ability and raw emotion shine through in tracks like "N.Y. State of Mind" and "One Love."

Production

The production on Big L's album is gritty and raw, with beats that complement his aggressive delivery and lyrical content. Tracks like "Put It On" and "M.V.P." showcase the boom-bap sound that was popular in the 90s hip-hop scene. In contrast, "Illmatic" features production from some of the best producers of the time, including DJ Premier and Pete Rock. The beats on Nas's album are jazzy and soulful, providing a perfect backdrop for his storytelling and introspective lyrics.

Subject Matter

Big L's "Lifestylez ov da Poor and Dangerous" focuses on themes of street life, violence, and the struggles of growing up in a rough neighborhood. His lyrics are often braggadocious and confrontational, reflecting the harsh realities of his surroundings. On the other hand, Nas's "Illmatic" delves into more personal and introspective themes, exploring topics like poverty, racism, and the complexities of urban life. Nas's ability to blend social commentary with personal storytelling sets his album apart from Big L's.

Impact

Both "Lifestylez ov da Poor and Dangerous" and "Illmatic" have had a lasting impact on the hip-hop community and are considered to be classics in the genre. Big L's album is often cited as a cornerstone of East Coast hip-hop, influencing a generation of rappers with his lyrical prowess and aggressive delivery. Nas's "Illmatic" is hailed as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, with its poetic lyrics and timeless production setting a high standard for the genre.

Legacy

Big L tragically passed away in 1999, cutting short what could have been a legendary career in hip-hop. Despite his untimely death, his influence can still be felt in the music of artists like Jay-Z, Eminem, and Kendrick Lamar, who have all cited him as an inspiration. Nas, on the other hand, has continued to release music and solidify his status as one of the greatest rappers of all time. His impact on the genre can be seen in the work of artists like J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, and Drake, who have all paid homage to him in their music.