10) “In Living Color” Theme (1990): Who can forget Heavy’s infectious raps that welcomed the classic sketch comedy series into American homes? Hopefully, Heavy’s theme will make a comeback when the series returns to TV in 2012.
9) “Don’t Curse” (1991): What set Heavy apart from many of his rap counterparts was the absence of blatant profanity. He makes his stance clear on this rap gem and brings along Kool G Rap and others for the ride.
8) “Big Daddy” (1997): Call this the late 90s version of Hev’s ‘Overweight Lover’ persona. It had a little more edge, a little more swag and proved Heavy could still get down with the mainstream.
7) “Is It Good To You?” (1991): Forgive Heavy for his fashion choices during this video – but this track asked a simple question and featured unmistakable charm straight from Heavy’s heart.
6) “Black Coffee” (1994): What can you say? “Black coffee, no sugar, no cream…that’s the kinda girl I need down with my team..”
5) “Nuttin’ But Love” (1994): The centerpiece and title track off Heavy’s fifth album, this track combines the rapper’s longing for a special lady and her skeptical response “What ya got?” As always, Heavy had the right answer…
4) “Got Me Waiting” (1994): Heavy switched up his flow so effortlessly fans tend to take his versatility for granted. With this early 90s jam, Heavy displays some lyrical patience but is also persistent: Don’t keep him ‘waiting’ too long…
3) “The Overweight Lover’s in the House” (1987): Who was living larger than Heavy D? This funky ode to Heavy’s real-life stature was the perfect mix of feel-good rhymes and positive vibes.
2) “Now That We Found Love” (1991): Heavy definitely knew how to party. And what better reason to celebrate with high-energy flows than finding your one true love?
1) “Somebody For Me” (1989): “I’ve searched low and I’ve searched high…” Heavy huffs on this Al. B Sure assisted track. You’d think Hev woudn’t have to work so hard to find love, but that’s why we love him.
“BE INSPIRED!” read rapper Heavy D’s final tweet — fitting final words for the self-proclaimed “overweight lover” of hip-hop. The ever-likable emcee was born in Jamaica, but was raised in Mount Vernon, New York — a city he helped popularize on the track “Moneyearnin’ Mount Vernon” off his debut album in 1987.
Click here to view a Grio slideshow of rappers who were gone too soon
You’d be hard-pressed to find someone in music that had bad things to say about Heavy D. He was consistently lovable and always made his fans feel good not only about his music, but their own lives. Take a look at our countdown of Heavy’s top ten hits. Did your favorite song make the list?
