There are many events in rap history that are either unknown or forgotten, from album releases to deaths to random ass events most of us can't even recall. As an attempt to remember those moments, Complex will share an event that helped shape hip-hop in a sometimes minor, sometimes major way. Join us as we look back on This Day in Rap History.
February 15, 1999
On February 15, 1999, Big L was shot and killed near his Harlem home in what was thought to be a retaliation hit against his older brother, Lee Phinazee. Known for his slick flow and witty punchlines, Big L only lived to see the release of his first album, 1995's Lifestyles Ov Da Poor & Dangerous. His second album, The Big Picture, was released after his death on August 1, 2000. L was also a member of the D.I.T.C. crew and was rumored to be on the verge of singing with Roc-A-Fella Records at the time of his death. His case is still unsolved. RIP Big L.
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