Biggie’s ‘Mo Money Mo Problems’ Hits No. 1 – Today in Hip-Hop

XXL celebrates 50 years of hip-hop with this moment:

Aug. 30, 1997: The Notorious B.I.G., who died on March 9, 1997, continued to break records and shape hip-hop culture even after his death. His song “Mo Money Mo Problems” became the first posthumous single to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart on this day in 1997, making him the first artist in history to achieve this feat.

As one of the singles from Biggie’s Life After Death album, “Mo Money Mo Problems” was produced by Stevie J and featured Bad Boy Records head honcho Puff Daddy and fellow labelmate Ma$e. The song sampled Diana Ross’ classic disco hit “I’m Coming Out” as well as featured vocals from R&B singer Kelly Price.

Aside from tracks like “Juicy,” “Big Poppa” and “Sky’s The Limit,” B.I.G.’s classic hit “Mo Money Mo Problems” is considered a certified party starter from the late Brooklyn rhymer’s discography. The hilarious music video for the track was directed by Hype Williams with images of Ma$e and Puffy in that futuristic wind tunnel lined with lamps.

“Mo Money Mo Problems” was Biggie‘s second No. 1 after “Hypnotize” hit the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 during the charting week of May 3, 1997. The song spent two weeks atop the summit in August of 1997. In 1998, the platinum-selling song was nominated for the a golden gramophone for the 41st annual Grammy Awards for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.

It’s a shame B.I.G. never got to see his name on top of the Billboard charts. Before these two singles, his closest to No. 1 was in 1995 with “One More Chance/Stay With Me,” which peaked at No. 2 on the Hot 100 during the week of July 15, 1995.

Overall, The Notorious B.I.G.‘s posthumous success is a testament to his legacy and the impact he had on the rap industry.

Watch The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Mo Money Mo Problems” Video Featuring Mase and Puff Daddy Below

Watch The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Hypnotize” Video Featuring Pam Long Video Below