On this day, Feb. 23, in hip-hop history…
1988: Biz Markie, a rapper and beatboxer from New Jersey began a career that would etch him into hip-hop history.
The famed MC decided it was time to put an album out, and followed through with that notion in 1988. Goin Off was Biz's formal introduction, with his debut album being released on Cold Chillin' Records. While the tracks on the LP were produced by Marley Marl, Big Daddy Kane penned the lyrics for half the songs.
Across the project, Biz showcased his impressive beatboxing skills. Songs like "Make the Music with your Mouth, Biz" prove he has one the most unique talents in hip-hop when it comes to beatboxing. One his most well-known songs appeared on this album: "Vapors." "Radio, TV and even the press/Know the meanin V-A-P-O-R-S/The meanin' this word without no doubt/Means nobody wants to be there when you’re down and out/Once you’re established and got a lot money/Everybody wanna be your buddy and honey/Like tall buildings they call skyscrapers," Biz delivers on the track.
The album was also re-released in the mid to late 1990s with different songs, including the "Vapors (Remix)." it was also reissued in 2006, with a bonus disc that contained versions some songs from the original release.