There is no shortage of posthumous releases in today’s industry, seeing as we have lost so many legends who had more material to offer. The Notorious B.I.G. is one of the aforementioned legends, now appearing on a track 25 years since his passing.
Saturday (May 21) marks what would have been Biggie’s 50th birthday if it weren’t for his tragic passing on March 9, 1997. In honor of this momentous occasion, his estate saw fit to celebrate with a reworked track, using his vocals from “I Love the Dough” (featuring Angela Winbush and Jay-Z) for a new track with appearances from Ty Dolla $ign and Nigerian singer Bella Alubo.
Aptly titled “G.O.A.T.,” B.I.G. manages to remind listeners of his legendary status as he performs lyrical gymnastics over a mellow Afrobeat instrumental. Bella Alubo provides heavenly vocals for the hook before Ty Dolla steps up to the plate, providing one of his most impressive performances to date.
In a statement to Rolling Stone, Ty revealed that this track has been one of his goals since the beginning of his career, saying, “Being on a song with Biggie has been a dream of mine since I was a kid. The song title is fitting of him…the G.O.A.T. Happy Birthday, Big. We miss you.”
Biggie’s mother, Voletta Wallace, gave her stamp of approval for the track as well, adding, “It’s wonderful to witness my son’s music reimagined for his fans and today’s generation of young men and women to embrace his art. I appreciate the hard work of all involved in bringing together the perfect blend of voices and music to this song, ‘G.O.A.T.’”
This track sets off the celebration of The Notorious B.I.G.’s 50th birthday, with plans for everything from custom MetroCards to an Empire State Building light show. The party looks to bring together all of Brooklyn to show some love for the fallen legend.
Rest In Peace to Christopher Wallace, aka Biggie Smalls
Check out ‘G.O.A.T.’ by The Notorious B.I.G. featuring Ty Dolla $ign and Bella Alubo below!
