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DJ Premier’s production is one of the most recognizable in Hip-Hop history.

Born March 21, 1966, Premier came up in Houston before relocating to New York, where his work with Guru in Gang Starr’s classic lineup would establish him as a defining force in Rap.

In 1994 alone, Premier produced across ‘Illmatic,’ ‘Ready to Die’, and ‘Hard to Earn’ within months of each other, placing him at the center of a defining era in Hip-Hop. Records like “Mass Appeal,” “N.Y. State of Mind,” and “Unbelievable” helped shape the sound of that moment. By 1996, he was already shaping the next wave with JAY-Z’s “D’Evils.”

From foundational artists like Nas and The Notorious B.I.G. to more modern MCs like Joey Badass, Premier’s sound has carried across generations without losing its identity. As he celebrates his birthday, Premier remains active, recently continuing a decades-long partnership with Nas through “GiT READY.”

Swipe through for 10 classic DJ Premier-produced records — What tracks did we miss?

For more like this, consider following @RapDaily and checking out this series at #10ClassicsWithRapDaily

@djpremier

DJ Premier’s production is one of the most recognizable in Hip-Hop history.

Born March 21, 1966, Premier came up in Houston before relocating to New York, where his work with Guru in Gang Starr’s classic lineup would establish him as a defining force in Rap.

In 1994 alone, Premier produced across ‘Illmatic,’ ‘Ready to Die’, and ‘Hard to Earn’ within months of each other, placing him at the center of a defining era in Hip-Hop. Records like “Mass Appeal,” “N.Y. State of Mind,” and “Unbelievable” helped shape the sound of that moment. By 1996, he was already shaping the next wave with JAY-Z’s “D’Evils.”

From foundational artists like Nas and The Notorious B.I.G. to more modern MCs like Joey Badass, Premier’s sound has carried across generations without losing its identity. As he celebrates his birthday, Premier remains active, recently continuing a decades-long partnership with Nas through “GiT READY.”

Swipe through for 10 classic DJ Premier-produced records — What tracks did we miss?

For more like this, consider following @RapDaily and checking out this series at #10ClassicsWithRapDaily

@djpremier

DJ Premier’s production is one of the most recognizable in Hip-Hop history.

Born March 21, 1966, Premier came up in Houston before relocating to New York, where his work with Guru in Gang Starr’s classic lineup would establish him as a defining force in Rap.

In 1994 alone, Premier produced across ‘Illmatic,’ ‘Ready to Die’, and ‘Hard to Earn’ within months of each other, placing him at the center of a defining era in Hip-Hop. Records like “Mass Appeal,” “N.Y. State of Mind,” and “Unbelievable” helped shape the sound of that moment. By 1996, he was already shaping the next wave with JAY-Z’s “D’Evils.”

From foundational artists like Nas and The Notorious B.I.G. to more modern MCs like Joey Badass, Premier’s sound has carried across generations without losing its identity. As he celebrates his birthday, Premier remains active, recently continuing a decades-long partnership with Nas through “GiT READY.”

Swipe through for 10 classic DJ Premier-produced records — What tracks did we miss?

For more like this, consider following @RapDaily and checking out this series at #10ClassicsWithRapDaily

@djpremier

DJ Premier’s production is one of the most recognizable in Hip-Hop history.

Born March 21, 1966, Premier came up in Houston before relocating to New York, where his work with Guru in Gang Starr’s classic lineup would establish him as a defining force in Rap.

In 1994 alone, Premier produced across ‘Illmatic,’ ‘Ready to Die’, and ‘Hard to Earn’ within months of each other, placing him at the center of a defining era in Hip-Hop. Records like “Mass Appeal,” “N.Y. State of Mind,” and “Unbelievable” helped shape the sound of that moment. By 1996, he was already shaping the next wave with JAY-Z’s “D’Evils.”

From foundational artists like Nas and The Notorious B.I.G. to more modern MCs like Joey Badass, Premier’s sound has carried across generations without losing its identity. As he celebrates his birthday, Premier remains active, recently continuing a decades-long partnership with Nas through “GiT READY.”

Swipe through for 10 classic DJ Premier-produced records — What tracks did we miss?

For more like this, consider following @RapDaily and checking out this series at #10ClassicsWithRapDaily

@djpremier

DJ Premier’s production is one of the most recognizable in Hip-Hop history.

Born March 21, 1966, Premier came up in Houston before relocating to New York, where his work with Guru in Gang Starr’s classic lineup would establish him as a defining force in Rap.

In 1994 alone, Premier produced across ‘Illmatic,’ ‘Ready to Die’, and ‘Hard to Earn’ within months of each other, placing him at the center of a defining era in Hip-Hop. Records like “Mass Appeal,” “N.Y. State of Mind,” and “Unbelievable” helped shape the sound of that moment. By 1996, he was already shaping the next wave with JAY-Z’s “D’Evils.”

From foundational artists like Nas and The Notorious B.I.G. to more modern MCs like Joey Badass, Premier’s sound has carried across generations without losing its identity. As he celebrates his birthday, Premier remains active, recently continuing a decades-long partnership with Nas through “GiT READY.”

Swipe through for 10 classic DJ Premier-produced records — What tracks did we miss?

For more like this, consider following @RapDaily and checking out this series at #10ClassicsWithRapDaily

@djpremier

DJ Premier’s production is one of the most recognizable in Hip-Hop history.

Born March 21, 1966, Premier came up in Houston before relocating to New York, where his work with Guru in Gang Starr’s classic lineup would establish him as a defining force in Rap.

In 1994 alone, Premier produced across ‘Illmatic,’ ‘Ready to Die’, and ‘Hard to Earn’ within months of each other, placing him at the center of a defining era in Hip-Hop. Records like “Mass Appeal,” “N.Y. State of Mind,” and “Unbelievable” helped shape the sound of that moment. By 1996, he was already shaping the next wave with JAY-Z’s “D’Evils.”

From foundational artists like Nas and The Notorious B.I.G. to more modern MCs like Joey Badass, Premier’s sound has carried across generations without losing its identity. As he celebrates his birthday, Premier remains active, recently continuing a decades-long partnership with Nas through “GiT READY.”

Swipe through for 10 classic DJ Premier-produced records — What tracks did we miss?

For more like this, consider following @RapDaily and checking out this series at #10ClassicsWithRapDaily

@djpremier

DJ Premier’s production is one of the most recognizable in Hip-Hop history.

Born March 21, 1966, Premier came up in Houston before relocating to New York, where his work with Guru in Gang Starr’s classic lineup would establish him as a defining force in Rap.

In 1994 alone, Premier produced across ‘Illmatic,’ ‘Ready to Die’, and ‘Hard to Earn’ within months of each other, placing him at the center of a defining era in Hip-Hop. Records like “Mass Appeal,” “N.Y. State of Mind,” and “Unbelievable” helped shape the sound of that moment. By 1996, he was already shaping the next wave with JAY-Z’s “D’Evils.”

From foundational artists like Nas and The Notorious B.I.G. to more modern MCs like Joey Badass, Premier’s sound has carried across generations without losing its identity. As he celebrates his birthday, Premier remains active, recently continuing a decades-long partnership with Nas through “GiT READY.”

Swipe through for 10 classic DJ Premier-produced records — What tracks did we miss?

For more like this, consider following @RapDaily and checking out this series at #10ClassicsWithRapDaily

@djpremier

DJ Premier’s production is one of the most recognizable in Hip-Hop history.

Born March 21, 1966, Premier came up in Houston before relocating to New York, where his work with Guru in Gang Starr’s classic lineup would establish him as a defining force in Rap.

In 1994 alone, Premier produced across ‘Illmatic,’ ‘Ready to Die’, and ‘Hard to Earn’ within months of each other, placing him at the center of a defining era in Hip-Hop. Records like “Mass Appeal,” “N.Y. State of Mind,” and “Unbelievable” helped shape the sound of that moment. By 1996, he was already shaping the next wave with JAY-Z’s “D’Evils.”

From foundational artists like Nas and The Notorious B.I.G. to more modern MCs like Joey Badass, Premier’s sound has carried across generations without losing its identity. As he celebrates his birthday, Premier remains active, recently continuing a decades-long partnership with Nas through “GiT READY.”

Swipe through for 10 classic DJ Premier-produced records — What tracks did we miss?

For more like this, consider following @RapDaily and checking out this series at #10ClassicsWithRapDaily

@djpremier

DJ Premier’s production is one of the most recognizable in Hip-Hop history.

Born March 21, 1966, Premier came up in Houston before relocating to New York, where his work with Guru in Gang Starr’s classic lineup would establish him as a defining force in Rap.

In 1994 alone, Premier produced across ‘Illmatic,’ ‘Ready to Die’, and ‘Hard to Earn’ within months of each other, placing him at the center of a defining era in Hip-Hop. Records like “Mass Appeal,” “N.Y. State of Mind,” and “Unbelievable” helped shape the sound of that moment. By 1996, he was already shaping the next wave with JAY-Z’s “D’Evils.”

From foundational artists like Nas and The Notorious B.I.G. to more modern MCs like Joey Badass, Premier’s sound has carried across generations without losing its identity. As he celebrates his birthday, Premier remains active, recently continuing a decades-long partnership with Nas through “GiT READY.”

Swipe through for 10 classic DJ Premier-produced records — What tracks did we miss?

For more like this, consider following @RapDaily and checking out this series at #10ClassicsWithRapDaily

@djpremier

DJ Premier’s production is one of the most recognizable in Hip-Hop history.

Born March 21, 1966, Premier came up in Houston before relocating to New York, where his work with Guru in Gang Starr’s classic lineup would establish him as a defining force in Rap.

In 1994 alone, Premier produced across ‘Illmatic,’ ‘Ready to Die’, and ‘Hard to Earn’ within months of each other, placing him at the center of a defining era in Hip-Hop. Records like “Mass Appeal,” “N.Y. State of Mind,” and “Unbelievable” helped shape the sound of that moment. By 1996, he was already shaping the next wave with JAY-Z’s “D’Evils.”

From foundational artists like Nas and The Notorious B.I.G. to more modern MCs like Joey Badass, Premier’s sound has carried across generations without losing its identity. As he celebrates his birthday, Premier remains active, recently continuing a decades-long partnership with Nas through “GiT READY.”

Swipe through for 10 classic DJ Premier-produced records — What tracks did we miss?

For more like this, consider following @RapDaily and checking out this series at #10ClassicsWithRapDaily

@djpremier

DJ Premier’s production is one of the most recognizable in Hip-Hop history.

Born March 21, 1966, Premier came up in Houston before relocating to New York, where his work with Guru in Gang Starr’s classic lineup would establish him as a defining force in Rap.

In 1994 alone, Premier produced across ‘Illmatic,’ ‘Ready to Die’, and ‘Hard to Earn’ within months of each other, placing him at the center of a defining era in Hip-Hop. Records like “Mass Appeal,” “N.Y. State of Mind,” and “Unbelievable” helped shape the sound of that moment. By 1996, he was already shaping the next wave with JAY-Z’s “D’Evils.”

From foundational artists like Nas and The Notorious B.I.G. to more modern MCs like Joey Badass, Premier’s sound has carried across generations without losing its identity. As he celebrates his birthday, Premier remains active, recently continuing a decades-long partnership with Nas through “GiT READY.”

Swipe through for 10 classic DJ Premier-produced records — What tracks did we miss?

For more like this, consider following @RapDaily and checking out this series at #10ClassicsWithRapDaily

@djpremier

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Hip-Hop knows how to take an iconic work of art and remix it into something new. That’s remained true, from samples and interpolations, to album covers and music videos. Here’s a look at how rappers have been able to pull from iconic photographs over the years, giving additional meaning to the idea that a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

Swipe and check out some of the iconic images rappers have both recreated and used as album artwork over the years and follow @rapdaily for more! 🔁

Cover: Philippe Halsman (top) / Notorious B.I.G. by Guy Aroch
Slide 2: Eric Poppleton (top) / A$AP Mob by @benritterphoto
3: Stanley Kubrick (top) / Jus Ske Salguero for SPIN
4: Hank Walker (top) / JAY Z & Kanye West for XXL – @clay_patrick_mcbride
5. Danny Clinch (top) / Rocky by Ben Ritter
6. Dan Winters / Polo G by Unknown
7. Doechii by Unknown / André Leon Talley by Michael Roberts
8. Joel Brodsky (top) / Childish Gambino ‘Awaken My Love’ - @ibraake
9. Don Hogan Charles (top) / Boogie Down Productions ‘By All Means Necessary’ – Doug Rowell
10. Joe Rosenthal (top) / Wu-Tang clan ‘Iron Flag’ – @dannyhastings
11. Abel Ferrara (top) / Lloyd Banks ‘Rotten Apple’ – @fscottschafer
12. Gordon Parks (top) / Gordon Parks (bottom)
13. Cover
14. Gordon Parks (top) / Kendrick Lamar “Element” – the little homies

Kendrick Lamar’s crowd in Barcelona genuinely went INSANE. 🤯🔥 Kendrick and SZA fans don’t play about the #GrandNationalTour. 😤

Kendrick Lamar’s crowd in Barcelona genuinely went INSANE. 🤯🔥 Kendrick and SZA fans don’t play about the #GrandNationalTour. 😤

Baby Keem says Lil Uzi Vert’s confidence helped him unlock his own.

In a recent conversation with Nardwuar, Keem reflected on how Uzi’s music shaped him during high school.

“I remember being 15, 16 years old... at high school, listening to [Lil Uzi Vert] every single day, on repeat,” he said. “It wasn’t until I decided to truly be inspired by him is when I became known as Baby Keem.”

That connection nearly went further. Keem said he once almost executive produced a Lil Uzi Vert album, from the lens of his 15-year-old self. The project was never completed due to tour conflicts, but the two have still crossed paths on one official release to date, linking on “bank account” from Keem’s ‘The Melodic Blue (Deluxe).’

The moment comes as Keem continues his ‘Casino’ tour in support of this year’s album.

Follow @RapDaily for more.

Baby Keem says Lil Uzi Vert’s confidence helped him unlock his own.

In a recent conversation with Nardwuar, Keem reflected on how Uzi’s music shaped him during high school.

“I remember being 15, 16 years old... at high school, listening to [Lil Uzi Vert] every single day, on repeat,” he said. “It wasn’t until I decided to truly be inspired by him is when I became known as Baby Keem.”

That connection nearly went further. Keem said he once almost executive produced a Lil Uzi Vert album, from the lens of his 15-year-old self. The project was never completed due to tour conflicts, but the two have still crossed paths on one official release to date, linking on “bank account” from Keem’s ‘The Melodic Blue (Deluxe).’

The moment comes as Keem continues his ‘Casino’ tour in support of this year’s album.

Follow @RapDaily for more.

Baby Keem says Lil Uzi Vert’s confidence helped him unlock his own.

In a recent conversation with Nardwuar, Keem reflected on how Uzi’s music shaped him during high school.

“I remember being 15, 16 years old... at high school, listening to [Lil Uzi Vert] every single day, on repeat,” he said. “It wasn’t until I decided to truly be inspired by him is when I became known as Baby Keem.”

That connection nearly went further. Keem said he once almost executive produced a Lil Uzi Vert album, from the lens of his 15-year-old self. The project was never completed due to tour conflicts, but the two have still crossed paths on one official release to date, linking on “bank account” from Keem’s ‘The Melodic Blue (Deluxe).’

The moment comes as Keem continues his ‘Casino’ tour in support of this year’s album.

Follow @RapDaily for more.

Baby Keem says Lil Uzi Vert’s confidence helped him unlock his own.

In a recent conversation with Nardwuar, Keem reflected on how Uzi’s music shaped him during high school.

“I remember being 15, 16 years old... at high school, listening to [Lil Uzi Vert] every single day, on repeat,” he said. “It wasn’t until I decided to truly be inspired by him is when I became known as Baby Keem.”

That connection nearly went further. Keem said he once almost executive produced a Lil Uzi Vert album, from the lens of his 15-year-old self. The project was never completed due to tour conflicts, but the two have still crossed paths on one official release to date, linking on “bank account” from Keem’s ‘The Melodic Blue (Deluxe).’

The moment comes as Keem continues his ‘Casino’ tour in support of this year’s album.

Follow @RapDaily for more.

Baby Keem says Lil Uzi Vert’s confidence helped him unlock his own.

In a recent conversation with Nardwuar, Keem reflected on how Uzi’s music shaped him during high school.

“I remember being 15, 16 years old... at high school, listening to [Lil Uzi Vert] every single day, on repeat,” he said. “It wasn’t until I decided to truly be inspired by him is when I became known as Baby Keem.”

That connection nearly went further. Keem said he once almost executive produced a Lil Uzi Vert album, from the lens of his 15-year-old self. The project was never completed due to tour conflicts, but the two have still crossed paths on one official release to date, linking on “bank account” from Keem’s ‘The Melodic Blue (Deluxe).’

The moment comes as Keem continues his ‘Casino’ tour in support of this year’s album.

Follow @RapDaily for more.

Baby Keem says Lil Uzi Vert’s confidence helped him unlock his own.

In a recent conversation with Nardwuar, Keem reflected on how Uzi’s music shaped him during high school.

“I remember being 15, 16 years old... at high school, listening to [Lil Uzi Vert] every single day, on repeat,” he said. “It wasn’t until I decided to truly be inspired by him is when I became known as Baby Keem.”

That connection nearly went further. Keem said he once almost executive produced a Lil Uzi Vert album, from the lens of his 15-year-old self. The project was never completed due to tour conflicts, but the two have still crossed paths on one official release to date, linking on “bank account” from Keem’s ‘The Melodic Blue (Deluxe).’

The moment comes as Keem continues his ‘Casino’ tour in support of this year’s album.

Follow @RapDaily for more.

Baby Keem says Lil Uzi Vert’s confidence helped him unlock his own.

In a recent conversation with Nardwuar, Keem reflected on how Uzi’s music shaped him during high school.

“I remember being 15, 16 years old... at high school, listening to [Lil Uzi Vert] every single day, on repeat,” he said. “It wasn’t until I decided to truly be inspired by him is when I became known as Baby Keem.”

That connection nearly went further. Keem said he once almost executive produced a Lil Uzi Vert album, from the lens of his 15-year-old self. The project was never completed due to tour conflicts, but the two have still crossed paths on one official release to date, linking on “bank account” from Keem’s ‘The Melodic Blue (Deluxe).’

The moment comes as Keem continues his ‘Casino’ tour in support of this year’s album.

Follow @RapDaily for more.

Baby Keem says Lil Uzi Vert’s confidence helped him unlock his own.

In a recent conversation with Nardwuar, Keem reflected on how Uzi’s music shaped him during high school.

“I remember being 15, 16 years old... at high school, listening to [Lil Uzi Vert] every single day, on repeat,” he said. “It wasn’t until I decided to truly be inspired by him is when I became known as Baby Keem.”

That connection nearly went further. Keem said he once almost executive produced a Lil Uzi Vert album, from the lens of his 15-year-old self. The project was never completed due to tour conflicts, but the two have still crossed paths on one official release to date, linking on “bank account” from Keem’s ‘The Melodic Blue (Deluxe).’

The moment comes as Keem continues his ‘Casino’ tour in support of this year’s album.

Follow @RapDaily for more.

“How’s It Goin’ Down” showed a different side of DMX.

Where ‘It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot’ could sound raw, urgent, and confrontational, this record slowed that world down. X told a street love story with detail and tension.

The music video pushed that even further. Directed by Hype Williams, it played less like a standard Rap visual and more like a short film, following X through scenes that felt true to the world he was writing from. That same year, X and Hype would also be tied to another cult classic: 1998’s ‘Belly,’ filmed not too far away from the world this video captured.

Decades later, the record still travels. “How’s It Goin’ Down” has been sampled and interpolated across Hip-Hop, most recently by J. Cole on “Life Sentence,” a reminder of how deeply DMX’s storytelling continues to echo.

Today, DMX’s classic debut ‘It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot’ celebrates another anniversary, 28 years since its release.

Follow @RapDaily for more like this.

One of the biggest rap records of 1998 almost didn’t get made.

DMX didn’t want to do it at first.

In his own words to GQ: “That was Swizz Beatz’s first record. That was one of the fastest songs I wrote — I wrote it in about 15 minutes. I actually didn’t want to write it, I didn’t want to do that song. The beat was simple and repetitive, and the flow I came up with was like 70 other songs. I’m glad I did do it. I listened and it worked out.”

DMX said he wrote “F-ckin’ Wit D” and “Let Me Fly” that same night.

Three records in one session in an album that changed Hip-Hop. ‘It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot’ turns 28 today, and the night DMX made “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” is still paying dividends.

Follow @RapDaily for more like this.

DMX’s debut album ‘It’s Dark and Hell is Hot’ turns 28.

DMX arrived from Yonkers with a voice that felt like it spoke for the people.

The tracklist spoke for itself. “Get At Me Dog” hit like a car alarm in a quiet room. “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” produced by Swizz Beatz, became a commercial hit, announcing X’s triumphant arrival.

“How’s It Goin’ Down” stood the test of time, later sampled and interpolated throughout Hip-Hop, most recently by J. Cole on “Life Sentence.”

And tracks like “Let Me Fly” and “Look Thru My Eyes” went somewhere most rappers had not: an unguarded conversation with God.

That tension between sin and salvation became the album’s landmark.

The reception was massive: 251,000 first-week copies. Number one. Four-times platinum. The first of five consecutive number-one albums. Pitchfork would call it “the Dante’s Inferno of rap.”

Twenty-eight years later, Dark Man X and his artistry continue to inspire.

DMX’s debut album ‘It’s Dark and Hell is Hot’ turns 28.

DMX arrived from Yonkers with a voice that felt like it spoke for the people.

The tracklist spoke for itself. “Get At Me Dog” hit like a car alarm in a quiet room. “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” produced by Swizz Beatz, became a commercial hit, announcing X’s triumphant arrival.

“How’s It Goin’ Down” stood the test of time, later sampled and interpolated throughout Hip-Hop, most recently by J. Cole on “Life Sentence.”

And tracks like “Let Me Fly” and “Look Thru My Eyes” went somewhere most rappers had not: an unguarded conversation with God.

That tension between sin and salvation became the album’s landmark.

The reception was massive: 251,000 first-week copies. Number one. Four-times platinum. The first of five consecutive number-one albums. Pitchfork would call it “the Dante’s Inferno of rap.”

Twenty-eight years later, Dark Man X and his artistry continue to inspire.

DMX’s debut album ‘It’s Dark and Hell is Hot’ turns 28.

DMX arrived from Yonkers with a voice that felt like it spoke for the people.

The tracklist spoke for itself. “Get At Me Dog” hit like a car alarm in a quiet room. “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” produced by Swizz Beatz, became a commercial hit, announcing X’s triumphant arrival.

“How’s It Goin’ Down” stood the test of time, later sampled and interpolated throughout Hip-Hop, most recently by J. Cole on “Life Sentence.”

And tracks like “Let Me Fly” and “Look Thru My Eyes” went somewhere most rappers had not: an unguarded conversation with God.

That tension between sin and salvation became the album’s landmark.

The reception was massive: 251,000 first-week copies. Number one. Four-times platinum. The first of five consecutive number-one albums. Pitchfork would call it “the Dante’s Inferno of rap.”

Twenty-eight years later, Dark Man X and his artistry continue to inspire.

DMX’s debut album ‘It’s Dark and Hell is Hot’ turns 28.

DMX arrived from Yonkers with a voice that felt like it spoke for the people.

The tracklist spoke for itself. “Get At Me Dog” hit like a car alarm in a quiet room. “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” produced by Swizz Beatz, became a commercial hit, announcing X’s triumphant arrival.

“How’s It Goin’ Down” stood the test of time, later sampled and interpolated throughout Hip-Hop, most recently by J. Cole on “Life Sentence.”

And tracks like “Let Me Fly” and “Look Thru My Eyes” went somewhere most rappers had not: an unguarded conversation with God.

That tension between sin and salvation became the album’s landmark.

The reception was massive: 251,000 first-week copies. Number one. Four-times platinum. The first of five consecutive number-one albums. Pitchfork would call it “the Dante’s Inferno of rap.”

Twenty-eight years later, Dark Man X and his artistry continue to inspire.

DMX’s debut album ‘It’s Dark and Hell is Hot’ turns 28.

DMX arrived from Yonkers with a voice that felt like it spoke for the people.

The tracklist spoke for itself. “Get At Me Dog” hit like a car alarm in a quiet room. “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” produced by Swizz Beatz, became a commercial hit, announcing X’s triumphant arrival.

“How’s It Goin’ Down” stood the test of time, later sampled and interpolated throughout Hip-Hop, most recently by J. Cole on “Life Sentence.”

And tracks like “Let Me Fly” and “Look Thru My Eyes” went somewhere most rappers had not: an unguarded conversation with God.

That tension between sin and salvation became the album’s landmark.

The reception was massive: 251,000 first-week copies. Number one. Four-times platinum. The first of five consecutive number-one albums. Pitchfork would call it “the Dante’s Inferno of rap.”

Twenty-eight years later, Dark Man X and his artistry continue to inspire.

DMX’s debut album ‘It’s Dark and Hell is Hot’ turns 28.

DMX arrived from Yonkers with a voice that felt like it spoke for the people.

The tracklist spoke for itself. “Get At Me Dog” hit like a car alarm in a quiet room. “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” produced by Swizz Beatz, became a commercial hit, announcing X’s triumphant arrival.

“How’s It Goin’ Down” stood the test of time, later sampled and interpolated throughout Hip-Hop, most recently by J. Cole on “Life Sentence.”

And tracks like “Let Me Fly” and “Look Thru My Eyes” went somewhere most rappers had not: an unguarded conversation with God.

That tension between sin and salvation became the album’s landmark.

The reception was massive: 251,000 first-week copies. Number one. Four-times platinum. The first of five consecutive number-one albums. Pitchfork would call it “the Dante’s Inferno of rap.”

Twenty-eight years later, Dark Man X and his artistry continue to inspire.

DMX’s debut album ‘It’s Dark and Hell is Hot’ turns 28.

DMX arrived from Yonkers with a voice that felt like it spoke for the people.

The tracklist spoke for itself. “Get At Me Dog” hit like a car alarm in a quiet room. “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” produced by Swizz Beatz, became a commercial hit, announcing X’s triumphant arrival.

“How’s It Goin’ Down” stood the test of time, later sampled and interpolated throughout Hip-Hop, most recently by J. Cole on “Life Sentence.”

And tracks like “Let Me Fly” and “Look Thru My Eyes” went somewhere most rappers had not: an unguarded conversation with God.

That tension between sin and salvation became the album’s landmark.

The reception was massive: 251,000 first-week copies. Number one. Four-times platinum. The first of five consecutive number-one albums. Pitchfork would call it “the Dante’s Inferno of rap.”

Twenty-eight years later, Dark Man X and his artistry continue to inspire.

Eight years ago today, Lil Baby released his debut studio album ‘Harder Than Ever,’ after one of the fastest come-ups in recent Atlanta rap.

He had only started rapping in early 2017. At first, Baby did not see himself as an artist, but after years around Quality Control’s world, he was encouraged to try music.

The first step was ‘Perfect Timing,’ his debut mixtape. But the real breakout came with ‘Harder Than Hard,’ released in July 2017. The tape gave way to his first hot 100 entry with “My Dawg.”

By December, he pushed further with ‘Too Hard.’ The project carried “Freestyle,” one of his early signature records, and widened his reach with features from the likes of Moneybagg Yo, Gunna, and Lil Yachty.

Then came ‘Harder Than Ever’ on May 18th, 2018. Drake, Offset, Lil Uzi Vert, Young Thug, Gunna, Moneybagg Yo, and more appeared across the album, while “Yes Indeed” became Baby’s first top 10 hit on the Hot 100. The album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, and now, certified platinum.

As he told The FADER at the time, “My next tape gonna be harder than this one because I’m still new in music period. I’m not nowhere near where I’m gonna be.”

In just over a year Lil Baby released his debut tape, three more projects, and an album. Each one pushed further than the last with the debut album arriving on in this day in 2018.

Cover Photo - Ahmed Klink

Eight years ago today, Lil Baby released his debut studio album ‘Harder Than Ever,’ after one of the fastest come-ups in recent Atlanta rap.

He had only started rapping in early 2017. At first, Baby did not see himself as an artist, but after years around Quality Control’s world, he was encouraged to try music.

The first step was ‘Perfect Timing,’ his debut mixtape. But the real breakout came with ‘Harder Than Hard,’ released in July 2017. The tape gave way to his first hot 100 entry with “My Dawg.”

By December, he pushed further with ‘Too Hard.’ The project carried “Freestyle,” one of his early signature records, and widened his reach with features from the likes of Moneybagg Yo, Gunna, and Lil Yachty.

Then came ‘Harder Than Ever’ on May 18th, 2018. Drake, Offset, Lil Uzi Vert, Young Thug, Gunna, Moneybagg Yo, and more appeared across the album, while “Yes Indeed” became Baby’s first top 10 hit on the Hot 100. The album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, and now, certified platinum.

As he told The FADER at the time, “My next tape gonna be harder than this one because I’m still new in music period. I’m not nowhere near where I’m gonna be.”

In just over a year Lil Baby released his debut tape, three more projects, and an album. Each one pushed further than the last with the debut album arriving on in this day in 2018.

Cover Photo - Ahmed Klink

Eight years ago today, Lil Baby released his debut studio album ‘Harder Than Ever,’ after one of the fastest come-ups in recent Atlanta rap.

He had only started rapping in early 2017. At first, Baby did not see himself as an artist, but after years around Quality Control’s world, he was encouraged to try music.

The first step was ‘Perfect Timing,’ his debut mixtape. But the real breakout came with ‘Harder Than Hard,’ released in July 2017. The tape gave way to his first hot 100 entry with “My Dawg.”

By December, he pushed further with ‘Too Hard.’ The project carried “Freestyle,” one of his early signature records, and widened his reach with features from the likes of Moneybagg Yo, Gunna, and Lil Yachty.

Then came ‘Harder Than Ever’ on May 18th, 2018. Drake, Offset, Lil Uzi Vert, Young Thug, Gunna, Moneybagg Yo, and more appeared across the album, while “Yes Indeed” became Baby’s first top 10 hit on the Hot 100. The album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, and now, certified platinum.

As he told The FADER at the time, “My next tape gonna be harder than this one because I’m still new in music period. I’m not nowhere near where I’m gonna be.”

In just over a year Lil Baby released his debut tape, three more projects, and an album. Each one pushed further than the last with the debut album arriving on in this day in 2018.

Cover Photo - Ahmed Klink

Eight years ago today, Lil Baby released his debut studio album ‘Harder Than Ever,’ after one of the fastest come-ups in recent Atlanta rap.

He had only started rapping in early 2017. At first, Baby did not see himself as an artist, but after years around Quality Control’s world, he was encouraged to try music.

The first step was ‘Perfect Timing,’ his debut mixtape. But the real breakout came with ‘Harder Than Hard,’ released in July 2017. The tape gave way to his first hot 100 entry with “My Dawg.”

By December, he pushed further with ‘Too Hard.’ The project carried “Freestyle,” one of his early signature records, and widened his reach with features from the likes of Moneybagg Yo, Gunna, and Lil Yachty.

Then came ‘Harder Than Ever’ on May 18th, 2018. Drake, Offset, Lil Uzi Vert, Young Thug, Gunna, Moneybagg Yo, and more appeared across the album, while “Yes Indeed” became Baby’s first top 10 hit on the Hot 100. The album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, and now, certified platinum.

As he told The FADER at the time, “My next tape gonna be harder than this one because I’m still new in music period. I’m not nowhere near where I’m gonna be.”

In just over a year Lil Baby released his debut tape, three more projects, and an album. Each one pushed further than the last with the debut album arriving on in this day in 2018.

Cover Photo - Ahmed Klink

Eight years ago today, Lil Baby released his debut studio album ‘Harder Than Ever,’ after one of the fastest come-ups in recent Atlanta rap.

He had only started rapping in early 2017. At first, Baby did not see himself as an artist, but after years around Quality Control’s world, he was encouraged to try music.

The first step was ‘Perfect Timing,’ his debut mixtape. But the real breakout came with ‘Harder Than Hard,’ released in July 2017. The tape gave way to his first hot 100 entry with “My Dawg.”

By December, he pushed further with ‘Too Hard.’ The project carried “Freestyle,” one of his early signature records, and widened his reach with features from the likes of Moneybagg Yo, Gunna, and Lil Yachty.

Then came ‘Harder Than Ever’ on May 18th, 2018. Drake, Offset, Lil Uzi Vert, Young Thug, Gunna, Moneybagg Yo, and more appeared across the album, while “Yes Indeed” became Baby’s first top 10 hit on the Hot 100. The album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, and now, certified platinum.

As he told The FADER at the time, “My next tape gonna be harder than this one because I’m still new in music period. I’m not nowhere near where I’m gonna be.”

In just over a year Lil Baby released his debut tape, three more projects, and an album. Each one pushed further than the last with the debut album arriving on in this day in 2018.

Cover Photo - Ahmed Klink

Eight years ago today, Lil Baby released his debut studio album ‘Harder Than Ever,’ after one of the fastest come-ups in recent Atlanta rap.

He had only started rapping in early 2017. At first, Baby did not see himself as an artist, but after years around Quality Control’s world, he was encouraged to try music.

The first step was ‘Perfect Timing,’ his debut mixtape. But the real breakout came with ‘Harder Than Hard,’ released in July 2017. The tape gave way to his first hot 100 entry with “My Dawg.”

By December, he pushed further with ‘Too Hard.’ The project carried “Freestyle,” one of his early signature records, and widened his reach with features from the likes of Moneybagg Yo, Gunna, and Lil Yachty.

Then came ‘Harder Than Ever’ on May 18th, 2018. Drake, Offset, Lil Uzi Vert, Young Thug, Gunna, Moneybagg Yo, and more appeared across the album, while “Yes Indeed” became Baby’s first top 10 hit on the Hot 100. The album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, and now, certified platinum.

As he told The FADER at the time, “My next tape gonna be harder than this one because I’m still new in music period. I’m not nowhere near where I’m gonna be.”

In just over a year Lil Baby released his debut tape, three more projects, and an album. Each one pushed further than the last with the debut album arriving on in this day in 2018.

Cover Photo - Ahmed Klink

Ab-Soul continues to reference Hip-Hop classics, this time over Beanie Sigel’s Melissa Jay-assisted “Feel It In The Air.”

Over the same instrumental, Soul raps a familiar sentiment:

“Nowadays, I depend, solely on intuition / From what’s been glowin’ within, since the beginning.”

The line plays off Sigel’s original:

“Intuition setting in like Stevie vision / I still close my eyes, I still see visions.”

Notably, Soul is legally blind, having lived with severe vision impairment since he was young. Similar to the Stevie Wonder reference in Sigel’s bar, both artists use the idea of sight to speak to a different kind of vision.

Towards the end Soul then takes it further:

“Was talkin’ bout [censored] before you was superstitious / It’s a wonder it took a blind n—a to show ’em.”

The bar brings the Stevie Wonder reference full circle, nodding to Wonder’s classic record “Superstition” while tying back into Soul’s own perspective.

It adds to the growing list of classic Hip-Hop beats Soul has rapped over on his @daboatdock account, including records from JAY-Z, Eminem, Nas, and more. Now, Beanie Sigel’s 2005 standout joins the mix.

@souloho3

Ab-Soul continues to reference Hip-Hop classics, this time over Beanie Sigel’s Melissa Jay-assisted “Feel It In The Air.”

Over the same instrumental, Soul raps a familiar sentiment:

“Nowadays, I depend, solely on intuition / From what’s been glowin’ within, since the beginning.”

The line plays off Sigel’s original:

“Intuition setting in like Stevie vision / I still close my eyes, I still see visions.”

Notably, Soul is legally blind, having lived with severe vision impairment since he was young. Similar to the Stevie Wonder reference in Sigel’s bar, both artists use the idea of sight to speak to a different kind of vision.

Towards the end Soul then takes it further:

“Was talkin’ bout [censored] before you was superstitious / It’s a wonder it took a blind n—a to show ’em.”

The bar brings the Stevie Wonder reference full circle, nodding to Wonder’s classic record “Superstition” while tying back into Soul’s own perspective.

It adds to the growing list of classic Hip-Hop beats Soul has rapped over on his @daboatdock account, including records from JAY-Z, Eminem, Nas, and more. Now, Beanie Sigel’s 2005 standout joins the mix.

@souloho3

Ab-Soul continues to reference Hip-Hop classics, this time over Beanie Sigel’s Melissa Jay-assisted “Feel It In The Air.”

Over the same instrumental, Soul raps a familiar sentiment:

“Nowadays, I depend, solely on intuition / From what’s been glowin’ within, since the beginning.”

The line plays off Sigel’s original:

“Intuition setting in like Stevie vision / I still close my eyes, I still see visions.”

Notably, Soul is legally blind, having lived with severe vision impairment since he was young. Similar to the Stevie Wonder reference in Sigel’s bar, both artists use the idea of sight to speak to a different kind of vision.

Towards the end Soul then takes it further:

“Was talkin’ bout [censored] before you was superstitious / It’s a wonder it took a blind n—a to show ’em.”

The bar brings the Stevie Wonder reference full circle, nodding to Wonder’s classic record “Superstition” while tying back into Soul’s own perspective.

It adds to the growing list of classic Hip-Hop beats Soul has rapped over on his @daboatdock account, including records from JAY-Z, Eminem, Nas, and more. Now, Beanie Sigel’s 2005 standout joins the mix.

@souloho3

Baby Keem drops new snippet while on the ‘Casino’ tour.

Keem posted the track via IG story with this video of fans from tour.

The moment arrives after Keem recently told @pigsandplans “We’re not gonna let up off heads,” when asked about the 5 years between ‘Casino’ and ‘The Melodic Blue.’

Follow @RapDaily for more!

An album cover can often immortalize a sound, turning its image into a lasting symbol of Hip-Hop history.

What’s often forgotten, is the process of creation, long before the image becomes a symbol.

Here’s a look behind the scenes of J. Cole’s ‘The Off-Season.’

📸 @justonefilm creative direction feltonamus

Kendrick Lamar’s ‘DAMN,’ produced five music videos, all tied together by a cohesive creative vision under Kendrick Lamar and Dave Free’s The Little Homies.

“ELEMENT.” - For example, directed by Jonas Lindstroem and The Little Homies, the video pays homage to multiple works from Gordon Parks, a pioneering photojournalist who documented Black American life from the 1940s through the Civil Rights era. The Gordon Parks Foundation responded by mounting a formal gallery exhibition, ELEMENT: Gordon Parks and Kendrick Lamar, pairing his original prints with frames from the video.

Nine years later, ‘DAMN.’ and its visual world remain a testament to the artistry of Kendrick Lamar, The Little Homies, and their collaborators.

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