Harlem is well known for its roots in music and performances dated back years ago. It is the home of many hip hop artists but to one who wasn’t well exposed, the homage is well paid. The iconic rapper known as Big L who spat cutting edge wordplay with feistiness and slickness was a perfect product of the place that birthed and raised him– gritty Harlem. The history is already set in stone with the phenomenon that was Big L, but add the prestigious Apollo Theater and the site of one of the most famous hip hop photoshoots, there’s nothing but strong credibility. The presence and the essence that Harlem brings to the table is something that can’t ever be questioned.
Big L’s mural on 104 W 140th st in Harlem
Big L’s childhood home on 104 W 139th st
Just up the block from the mural is Lamont Coleman’s childhood home on 104 W. 139th St. in Harlem. Regardless of the construction it is under going, his old home stands tall
Big L’s old neighborhood in Harlem
45 W 139th St – the location reported of the drive-by shooting that murdered Big L
Big L died at 24 in Harlem in his hometown he always paid homage to in his raps. He didn’t get as exposed as many rappers but those in hip-hop acknowledged him for his talent.
Apollo Theater in Harlem – 253 W 125th Street
Apollo Theater is well-known for their bursting performances, right in the heart of Harlem the theater shines.
XXL’s Magazine cover entitled “The Greatest Day In Hip-hop History” in 1998 – Harlem
The infamous home where the XXL magazine cover was shot -17 East 126th Street
Back in 1998, the cover for XXL Magazine was titled “The Greatest Day in Hip-hop History” where many rappers gathered in Harlem to get their photo taken posted up together.
Lamont Coleman “Big L” (May 30th. 1974 – February 15th. 1999)
Photos are all taken by The Resurrected