COMMENTARY | Heavy D, born Dwight Arrington Myers, died early Tuesday morning in Los Angeles. Heavy D, one the greatest rappers hip hop has ever s een, inspired many with a string of hits from the late 1980s and early 1990s.
He was undeniably the “Overweight Lover Heavy D” One of a few well-known musical talents from Mount Vernon, N.Y., Heavy D was best known for his ability to roll smooth lyrics off his tongue at a rapid pace.
Heavy D’s last tweet simply stated “Stay Inspired.” Heavy D’s lyrics were inspiring and downright memorable. I still remember when I first heard Heavy D’s lyrics and how as an artist his work still resonates with people today.
He was an indelible part of hip-hop, particularly in the early days, when hip-hop was gaining mainstream recognition.
For those like myself who grew up in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Heavy D’s rhymes resonate and speaks to a generation that came of age listening to music inspired by hip-hop, R&B and new jack swing. He was known for his charismatic lyrics and popular dance moves.
Along with a string of successful hits like “Nuttin’ But Love” (1994) and “We Got Our Own Thang” (1987), the rapper was also known for the theme song for the controversial yet popular comedy show “In Living Color.” Heavy D also performed the rap for Michael Jackson’s “Jam” in the early 1990s.
Heavy D was a wildly popular artist and one of the first artists signed to Uptown Records. The very same record label he would later run as president in the mid-1990s. His work as an artist, actor and songwriter continues to motivate others. Many of my generation and the generations to come will forever be inspired by Heavy D’s music.