Heavy D

Heavy D was a pioneer of new jack swing and one of the first hip-hop artists to achieve mainstream crossover success. He led Heavy D. & the Boyz to four platinum albums, a rare feat at the time. His smooth style and positive lyrics influenced a generation of rappers, including The Notorious B.I.G., who name-checked him on "Juicy." He also broke barriers as a label executive, becoming president of Uptown Records. His legacy endures through his music and the artists he discovered.