Incredible! I wrote a report on it on the core thread just recently.
Not to divert the topic, but this is for you
Off the top I will say Prodigy wrote an incredible autobiography and any Hip Hop head would enjoy the read or listen of the audio book.
New York Rap, growing up in the 70s - and the music business - written by a legendary rapper who endured.
Seeing it all - I feel Mobb Deep as great as they were could have been greater.
In hindsight - 1. all those fights, gun fights, fights at shows - and multiple, multiple, multiple times he mentions people getting their faces slashed by knives or blades
2. All that sex with groupies - so much - when he had an incredibly beautiful and loyal wife - at first at least (sounds like she got with other dudes only cause he was openly getting with other girls so much)
3. All that weed, alcohol, drugs, partying - excessively
4. Frivolous money spent on cars, guns, - his shop which he closed after a month
If P took all that away - or went easier - he'd be in a better place near the end. I think he outlived alot of ppl who have Sickle Cell - but there are 90 year olds who have it too.
He had a lot of luck in his life - he chose the projects and lifestyle. He could have easily took another path. His grandmother was a millionaire, Mom worked for housing - father was more grimy - drug addict, crime, etc - but he too lived big time at several points in his life and ended up in a good place in the end.
But all that made Prodigy who he was.
In the end he got caught up - even though he was lucky to get through alot. He took full responsibility and showed alot of growth and love at the end.
Prodigy is one of my favourites - but there were times I lost respect and wanted to stop listening to the book in the first few chapters. I told friends about some parts and they were disgusted. The fights, violence made me sick. He chose that - but again he made high art out of it all. I kept listening to it because it was addictive to listen to. I wanted to know what happened next always.
As an author - the book is a great work. A rapper born in the early 70s. Gripping story. Life changes. How he made it - really made it business wise, music wise, and added to hip hop culture. His work and discipline. Him out of all people connecting with Hollywood elite.
Him mentioning Queensbridge under construction in the 70s with dirt roads.
As an author - he fukking delivered!
Alot of lessons could be learned.
I'm grateful he wrote it. At first I'm like he gave way too many details. But it's Prodigy.
This book stands alone. And if other rappers in his tier - which contain the best (born in the early 1970s) - if they don't get focused - they won't be able to write their books as great - if they choose to write.
Prodigy narrates the whole book! 12 hours of reading!
That's so much work! So much! See how serious he was about words, writing, reading?
Rest in peace Prodigy.