As hip-hop continues to grow, change and birth bastardized interpretations of itself (see mumble rap), it’s important to pay homage to the fierce lyricists who helped take the genre to new and innovative heights.
Still being categorized as “gangsta rap” due to the reference of violent situations in their lyrics, the artists in Bone Thugs-N-Harmony were some of the first rappers to bring rapid-fire, Midwest “chopper” style to mainstream circuits, all while incorporating moments of singing through their verses and hooks.
Born Bryon Anthony McCane II, Bizzy Bone’s angelic, tenor voice seemed to stand out the most out of the group, and with the release of his first solo album Heaven’z Movie back in ’98, the rapper began to explore themes in his personal life – themes that were met with mixed reviews (hip-hop wasn’t ready to go there maybe).
More than fifteen solo albums later, and numerous collaborations, Bizzy Bone is a living legend in his own right and with his intricate syllabic patterns, unique voice and lightning-fast delivery, this BNTH member is one of the most original rappers still blessing mics.
With T-Trell + More, Saturday, October 7, $20, 18+, Fitzgeralds Bar and Live Music, 437 McCarty Road, facebook.com/fitzgeraldsbar.
