On this day February 23 1988 Goin' Off the debut album by Biz Markie was released. Known for his humorous rhymes and beatboxing skills Biz Markie brought a playful and unique style to hip hop that set him apart from his peers. The album reached number 90 on the US Billboard 200 and number 19 on the R&B Albums Chart solidifying his presence in the rap scene.
Goin Off featured some of Biz Markie’s most iconic early tracks including Make the Music with Your Mouth Biz and Vapors. The latter became one of his signature songs telling the story of people who doubted him before his rise to fame. The album’s production was handled by Marley Marl who gave it a raw yet funky sound that fit Biz Markie’s energetic personality.
Though he was often seen as a comedic figure Biz Markie was also an influential artist paving the way for a more lighthearted and charismatic approach to hip hop. His beatboxing skills and storytelling ability helped make Goin Off a memorable debut that remains a classic of the golden age of hip hop.
80s insight: The song Vapors became so influential that multiple artists including Snoop Dogg later remade or referenced it in their own music.
Goin Off featured some of Biz Markie’s most iconic early tracks including Make the Music with Your Mouth Biz and Vapors. The latter became one of his signature songs telling the story of people who doubted him before his rise to fame. The album’s production was handled by Marley Marl who gave it a raw yet funky sound that fit Biz Markie’s energetic personality.
Though he was often seen as a comedic figure Biz Markie was also an influential artist paving the way for a more lighthearted and charismatic approach to hip hop. His beatboxing skills and storytelling ability helped make Goin Off a memorable debut that remains a classic of the golden age of hip hop.
80s insight: The song Vapors became so influential that multiple artists including Snoop Dogg later remade or referenced it in their own music.
