I know I’m a day late on posting this; I worked as long as I could yesterday before hosting a BBQ at my house for the holiday. In my first piece in a while for XXL, I used a Memorial Day theme to find lyrics that different emcees such as Kanye West (pictured above with his mother, R.I.P.) used to pay homage to deceased loved ones. Read below for the intro.
Legends like Notorious B.I.G., Tupac Shakur, Big Pun and J Dilla are always recognized for their countless contributions before passing on, but hip-hop artists have tragically lost other friends and family who aren’t privy to international tributes nationwide. Not just fellow mic controllers, but lifelong friends, siblings, and other comrades that were there with them through thick and thin. Whether the cause is intentional or accidental; done by others or self-inflicted; and whether the victim is human or canine, rap’s most prolific emcees have eulogized loved ones through song. The results, more often than not, are timeless records that help artists express themselves while giving listeners a soundtrack for funeral proceedings they have to trudge through. For this year’s Memorial Day, XXL pays homage to the lesser recognized names who are worshiped by hip-hop’s best. See how these MCs have paid tribute to their fallen loved ones.
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