Big Pun

Description: (The First Latino Artist to Go 'Platinum')

Christopher Lee Rios, popularly known as Big Pun, was an American rapper who came to prominence with his debut album ‘Capital Punishment’ that ruled the R&B/hip-hop charts for weeks. In fact, he was the first Latino rapper whose solo album was certified platinum. In 1997, he had his first hit, ‘I’m Not a Player, which occupied the third position on the US Rap chart. He formed the rap group Full-A-Clips, and developed a unique style of rapping as he could rap for a long time without taking a breath. Big Pun’s lyrics were full of deep meaning, complex rhymes, and repeated use of consonants and sounds, and thus, very fascinating to his fans. Despite the professional success he enjoyed, his personal life had been a troubled one. Big Pun had faced several hardships during the short span of his life. He was homeless for some time and also faced difficulties as a young father when he and his junior high school girlfriend Liza had their first child. It is said that due to stress, he ate more and became extremely overweight. Unfortunately, he died at the age of 29 from obesity related heart failure in 2000. Even after almost two decades after his death, he continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest Latino lyricists and rappers. MTV2 ranked him at the 11thposition on its list of the 22 Greatest MCs.

Overview

Birthday November 10, 1971 (Scorpio)
Born In United States
Alternative names Christopher Lee Rios
City New York City
Died on February 7, 2000
Spouse/Ex- Liza Rios
Parents
Gail Tirado
Children Amanda Rios, Christopher Rios, Vanessa Rios
Relatives Christine Rios, Nicole Rodriguez, Nyree Rios, Piña Rios
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