In this article, DJ Iron Mike reflects on the untimely passing of Heavy D and lists 20 essential tracks by this talented artist. His final Tweet, posted just 21 hours ago, read "BE INSPIRED!"
Today, Hip-Hop lost one of its most legendary and charismatic performers. Dwight "Heavy D" Myers brought a fun, honest and energetic approach to rap music while maintaining street credibility and most importantly, being himself. I believe it was fellow golden age rapper MC Lyte who said that one of the best things about Heavy D was that you could listen to him in front of your parents and your parents would even began to like his music. No doubt influencing future rap heavyweights The Notorious B.I.G. and Big Punisher, Heavy D didn't poke fun at his size as did the also legendary Fat Boys, but glorified it in a way that could attract the ladies.
He leaves behind a memorable catalog of Hip-Hop classics and dance floor mainstays including the 1991 smash with his group Heavy D & The Boyz: "Now That We Found Love" which was immortalized in the popular Will Smith film "Hitch" as well as two versions of the theme to the wildly popular sketch comedy show "In Living Color." Flexing his diversity, Heavy also built a solid acting resume appearing in such films as Life and New Jersey Drive as well as prime time TV shows Living Single, Bones and Law & Order: SVU. Without further ado, here are my Top 20 Favorite tracks either by, or featuring Heavy D solo or with The Boyz. Pay homage, but most importantly, have fun. Heavy would've wanted it that way.
20. Jam w/ Michael Jackson (1991)
19. Next Stop Uptown w/ Various (1993)
18. My Love (Remix) w/ Mary J. Blige (1993)
17. I Miss You w/ Monifah (1995)
16. Is It Good To You (1991)
15. Keep It Comin' (1997)
14. If You Want it w/ The Lost Boyz & Soul 4 Real (1997)
13. Jam Session w/ Notorious B.I.G. & Troo Kulla (1993)
12. We Got Our Own Thang (1989)
11. Gyrlz They Love Me (1989)
10. Black Coffee (1994)
9. Now That We Found Love w/ Aaron Hall (1991)
8. Let's Get It On w/ Eddie F, 2Pac, The Notorious B.I.G. & Grand Puba (1994)
7. Candy Rain w/ Soul 4 Real (Track Masters Remix) (1994)
6. Big Daddy (1997)
5. The Overweight Lover's In The House (1987)
4. Don't Curse w/ Big Daddy Kane, Q-Tip, Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth, Grand Puba & Kool G Rap (1991)
3.Mr. Big Stuff (Remix) (1987)
2.You Can't See What I Can See (1992)
1.Nuthin' But Love (1994)
For further information on the life and music of Heavy D, visit his Facebook Fan Page at http://www.facebook.com/officialheavyd
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