The summer of 1995 was a season of intense energy and cultural upheaval that had a lasting impact on hip hop.

It was a time when the genre was at a crossroads, with the release of seminal albums like Ready to Die by Notorious B.I.G. and The Infamous by Mobb Deep, which brought a new level of lyrical complexity and storytelling to hip hop. But it was also a time of intense competition and controversy, highlighted by the infamous Source Awards in New York City, where tensions between East Coast and West Coast rappers boiled over.

The cultural backdrop of the summer of 1995 was equally significant, with the Knicks’ journey to the playoffs and finals serving as a powerful metaphor for the struggles and triumphs of hip hop artists. As New York City was grappling with social and economic challenges, the city’s basketball team provided a rallying point for fans and artists alike, and their success on the court inspired a generation of hip hop artists to strive for greatness.

The events of the summer of 1995 continue to resonate with hip hop fans and artists to this day, and its legacy can be seen in the continued influence of artists like Notorious B.I.G., Mobb Deep, and the many others who emerged during this pivotal season. From the innovative sounds and styles of the music to the intense rivalries and collaborations that defined the era, the summer of 1995 remains one of the most important periods in the history of hip hop.

Tune in for my episode on Summer of 1995. Summer of Substance coming soon, and for more episodes, follows us on all social media platforms @riddimandpoetry and subscribe to our youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/@RiddimAndPoetry