The Notorious B.I.G. — Quotes

“It was all a dream. I used to read Word Up magazine.”

— The Notorious B.I.G. · Opening lines from 'Juicy' (1994), reflecting on his journey from poverty in Brooklyn to hip-hop success.

“Mo' money, mo' problems.”

— The Notorious B.I.G. · Title track and central theme from his 1997 album, exploring how wealth creates new complications and challenges.

“You never know how many friends you have until the money runs out.”

— The Notorious B.I.G. · A recurring observation about loyalty and friendship that B.I.G. expressed in interviews during his rise to fame.

“I'm living every day like a hustle. Another drug to juggle.”

— The Notorious B.I.G. · From his lyrics about the street mentality and constant struggle that defined his early life and artistic perspective.

“Somebody's gotta win, so it might as well be me.”

— The Notorious B.I.G. · Statement reflecting his competitive drive and determination to succeed in hip-hop during the East Coast-West Coast rivalry.

“I got a big ego, I really don't know why.”

— The Notorious B.I.G. · Self-aware lyric from his music acknowledging his confident persona and larger-than-life presence in rap.

“Stay true to the game, because the game will be true to you.”

— The Notorious B.I.G. · Advice he gave to younger artists about authenticity and commitment to hip-hop culture.

“I'm the illest, sickest, most wicked, most twisted, most gifted MC alive.”

— The Notorious B.I.G. · Boastful declaration of his superior skill as a rapper, characteristic of his competitive battle-rap style.