Big L

Lyrics

[Intro: Big L & Big Daddy Kane sample]
On the mic is Big L...
On the mic is Big L...
The most valuable poet on the M-I-C

[Verse 1: Big L]
A-yo, spark up the Phillies and pass the stout
Make it quick, money grip, 'fore yo' ass is out
In a street brawl, I strike men quicker than lightnin'
You seen what happened in my last fight, friend? A'ight, then!
L's a clever threat, a lyricist who never sweat
Comparin' yourself to me is like a Benz to a Chevrolet
And clown rappers I'm bound to slay
I'm sayin' hi to all the cuties from around the way
Yeah! 'Cause I got all of them sprung, Jack
My girls are like boomerangs
No matter how far I throw 'em, they come back
I'm comin' straight out the NYC
I'm down with Diggin' In The Crates, and I'm MVP

[Hook: Big L & Big Daddy Kane sample]
If rap was a game, I'll be MVP
The most valuable poet on the M-I-C
A-yo, if rap was a game, I'll be MVP
The most valuable poet on the M-I-C
[Verse 2: Big L]
Yo, it's a must that I get papes
Peace to all the DJ's who gave me love on they mixtapes
And once again, the man's back with a dance track
So here's your chance, Jack, to get loose and let your hands clap
I got juice like Boku, mad crews I broke through
Brothers be mad 'cause I hit more chicks than they spoke to
And every time I'm jammed, I always find a loophole
I got a crime record longer than Manute Bol
And my raps are unbelievable like aliens and flyin' saucers
No more iron horses 'cause I'm buyin' Porsches
Comin' straight out the NYC
Peace to the Kid Capri, I'm MVP

[Hook x2: Big L & Big Daddy Kane sample]
If rap was a game, I'll be MVP
The most valuable poet on the M-I-C
Yo, if rap was a game, I'll be MVP
The most valuable poet on the M-I-C

[Verse 3: Big L]
Battles I lose none, I make crews run, I get fools done
Got ten fingers, but only use one
I run up like Machine Gun Kelly with a black skully
Put one in your belly, leave you smelly, then take your Pelle Pelle
I'm the neighborhood lamper, punani vamper
Mess around, you'll find my silk boxers in your Mommy's hamper
And nowadays, girls want you for your money
I'm like Heav' — I got nothin' but love for you, honey
And since I'm lookin' slick, and my pockets are thick
I need surgery to get chicks removed from my... (Chill!)
I'm comin' straight out the NYC
Rap's my J-O-B, and I'm MVP
[Hook x2: Big L & Big Daddy Kane sample]
If rap was a game, I'll be MVP
The most valuable poet on the M-I-C
Yo, if rap was a game, I'll be MVP
The most valuable poet on the M-I-C

Yeah!

When it comes to the world of hip-hop, there are certain tracks that stand out from the rest. They have a certain energy, a certain style, and a certain impact on the culture. One such track is "M.V.P." by the legendary Big L. Released as the second single from his debut album "Lifestylez Ov Da Poor and Dangerous," this track solidified Big L as one of the most skilled and charismatic MCs of his time.

About M.V.P.

From the moment the beat drops, "M.V.P." grabs your attention and doesn't let go. It's a classic example of 90s hip-hop, filled with hard-hitting drums, a catchy piano loop, and Big L's razor-sharp lyrical flow. The song is a showcase of Big L's incredible wordplay and clever punchlines, as he effortlessly weaves together witty rhymes that keep you engaged from start to finish.

One interesting aspect of "M.V.P." is its use of samples. The music video for the track features Giovanni Salah's "Summer Smooth Mix" as the backdrop, which adds a smooth and laid-back vibe to the visuals. But on the album version, the beat is produced by Lord Finesse and incorporates the piano break from DeBarge's "Stay With Me." This loop would later become famous when The Notorious B.I.G. used it on his "One More Chance / Stay With Me (Remix)" in 1995.

According to Lord Finesse, Biggie may have gotten the idea to use the beat from Big L's "M.V.P." as he was opening for Biggie on tour. Lord Finesse himself was present during the making of Biggie's "Ready To Die" album, where he produced the track "Suicidal Thoughts." This insight adds an interesting dimension to the connection between Big L and Biggie, two influential figures in the world of hip-hop.

But beyond the production and the samples, "M.V.P." is ultimately a reflection of Big L's talent and charisma as an MC. His rhymes are sharp and witty, delivered with a confidence and swagger that sets him apart from his peers. He effortlessly switches flows and cadences, showcasing his versatility and artistic range.

In an interview with HipHopDX, Lord Finesse revealed that Big L wanted a commercial R&B loop that everybody could recognize, which led to the incorporation of the DeBarge sample. This speaks to Big L's desire to create music that resonates with a wide audience while still staying true to his underground roots.

"M.V.P." is not only a testament to Big L's skill as an MC but also a snapshot of the golden era of hip-hop. It captures the essence of the 90s sound and the lyrical prowess that made that era so iconic. It's a track that stands the test of time and continues to be celebrated by hip-hop fans all over the world.

In the end, "M.V.P." is more than just a song. It's a statement. It's a reminder of Big L's impact on the hip-hop landscape and his influence on future generations of artists. It's a track that showcases the raw talent and creativity that made Big L such a beloved figure in the music industry.

So, if you haven't already, give "M.V.P." a listen and experience the magic for yourself. Get lost in Big L's mesmerizing flow and let the infectious beat take you on a journey through the world of 90s hip-hop. It's a track that deserves to be celebrated and appreciated for years to come.

• Release Date: March 28, 1995
• Artist: Big L