Notorious Thugs

About this song

The track is the opening song on Disc 2 of Life After Death and is a collaboration between The Notorious B.I.G. and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. It was finished recording sometime between 1995 and the album's release in 1997, only a few weeks after Biggie was murdered in March. It was released at the height of popularity for Biggie, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, and '90s gangster rap in general.

What it's about

The song is a declaration of both groups' talent and their commitment to their gangsta rap roots. It also touches on the East-West coast rivalry that was largely seen between Biggie and 2Pac.

Fun facts

• Sampled in 15 other songs, like “Niggaz Know by J. Cole”.
• Covered once, including “Notorious Thugs by Scary Kids Scaring Kids”.
• Written by Bizzy Bone, Diddy, Krayzie Bone, Layzie Bone, Stevie J and The Notorious B.I.G..
• Produced by Diddy and Stevie J.
• Recorded at Daddy's House Recording Studios (New York.