Big L, whose real name was Lamont Coleman, was an influential American rapper and songwriter born on February 10, 1974, in Harlem, New York City. He is best known for his clever wordplay, intricate rhymes, and storytelling ability. Big L was a key figure in the underground hip-hop scene during the 1990s and is often celebrated for his contributions to the genre. He gained recognition with his debut album, Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous, released in 1995. Despite his promising career, Big L's life was tragically cut short when he was murdered on February 15, 1999. His legacy continues to inspire many artists, and he is remembered as one of the greatest lyricists in hip-hop history.