On this day in Hip-Hop history, The Notorious B.I.G. released his second and final album, Life After Death, a double LP that arrived just two weeks after his tragic passing. Released posthumously through Bad Boy Records, the album became an instant classic, earning Biggie three Grammy nominations—Best Rap Album, Best Rap Solo Performance for Hypnotize, and Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for Mo Money Mo Problems.
Packed with star-studded collaborations from 112, Jay-Z, Lil’ Kim, Ma$e, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Too $hort, and R. Kelly, the album delivered timeless records like Kick in the Door, What’s Beef, Notorious Thugs, Ten Crack Commandments, and Sky’s the Limit. Its impact was undeniable—Life After Death debuted at No. 1 on both the Billboard 200 and the U.S. Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. It went on to achieve diamond certification in the U.S. (10 million copies sold), double platinum in Canada, and platinum in the U.K., while also leaving its mark on charts worldwide.
Hailed as one of the greatest rap albums of all time, Life After Death has been ranked among the best by countless publications, with The Source placing it at No. 8 in 2005.
Salute to Diddy and the entire Bad Boy family for delivering this timeless piece of Hip-Hop history!