Bands & artists like The Notorious B.I.G.

If you like The Notorious B.I.G., these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.

New to The Notorious B.I.G.? Start with our listening guide.

East Coast hip-hop G-funk gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop hip-hop

Artists to try next

Nas

Guide

Nas's complex lyricism and storytelling resonate well with B.I.G.'s approach, often exploring similar themes of urban life and aspiration.

East Coast hip-hop alternative hip-hop boom bap

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Illmatic

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Jay-Z

Jay-Z's smooth flow and clever wordplay echo B.I.G.'s style, while both artists share a penchant for luxurious imagery in their lyrics.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop

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4:44

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Big L

Big L's intricate rhymes and punchy delivery align closely with B.I.G.'s hardcore hip-hop roots and lyrical prowess.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop

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Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous

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Mobb Deep

Mobb Deep's gritty production and dark themes parallel the tension found in B.I.G.'s music, making them a natural fit for fans.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop

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Life of the Infamous: The Best of Mobb Deep

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Wu-Tang Clan

Guide

The Wu-Tang Clan's raw beats and vivid storytelling match the East Coast sound that B.I.G. helped popularize, creating a shared aesthetic.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop

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Once Upon a Time in Shaolin

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Fat Joe

Guide

Fat Joe's blend of street narratives and catchy hooks mirrors B.I.G.'s ability to balance grit with mainstream appeal.

East Coast hip-hop Latin hip-hop boom bap

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Jealous One's Envy

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Cam'ron

Guide

Cam'ron's playful yet hard-hitting lyrics and smooth delivery are reminiscent of B.I.G.'s unique combination of toughness and charm.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop

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Killa Season

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Jadakiss

Jadakiss's sharp lyricism and commanding presence reflect the same kind of bravado and street authenticity that characterized B.I.G.'s work.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop

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Consignment

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Common questions

Who sounds like The Notorious B.I.G.?

Artists similar to The Notorious B.I.G. include Nas, Jay-Z, Big L and Mobb Deep. Each shares elements of The Notorious B.I.G.'s sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is The Notorious B.I.G.?

The Notorious B.I.G. is primarily known for hip-hop, gangsta rap and hardcore hip-hop. B.I.G.'s music pulses with a heavy groove and rhythmic cadences that create tension before releasing into smooth flows, embodying both grit and grace.

Where should I start if I like The Notorious B.I.G.?

If you enjoy The Notorious B.I.G., start with Nas — their album "Illmatic" is a great entry point. Nas's complex lyricism and storytelling resonate well with B.I.G.'s approach, often exploring similar themes of urban life and aspiration.