Don't feel bad if you missed The Bad Boy Reunion at the Barclay's Center in Brooklyn this past weekend. No, not because it wasn't lit...it was most definitely lit. The tour was led by Puff and welcomed Lil Kim, Faith Evans, 112, Mase and...French Montana among many others. No shade, but...if anyone actually knows why French hit the Barclay's stage please let me know. Again, no shade. However, what was supposed to be a one-night celebration for the label's late but greatest artist, the Notorious B.I.G., has been turned into a full 29-date tour. The tour is hitting a number of cities, including New Orleans, Columbus, Chicago and Las Vegas. Unsurprisingly, the initial two events sold out pretty quick; but with so many added dates and locations you might be able to catch what might be the best throwback hip-hop concert of the century.
During the inaugural event, the Bad Boy family and guests managed to turn the stage into a 3-hour party that created the perfect balance between party and nostalgic feels. Diddy, who organized everything, took on the stage to rap and show off his dance moves more than a few times. However, despite his bars and what seemed to be effortless footwork, the ladies of the night may have stolen the show. It was no surprise that Faith Evans, the first lady of Bad Boys, put on quite the show, performing a couple of her hits including "As Soon As I Get Home". Puff and Evans shared an emotional moment when Puff got on his knees during Evans' performance and literally bowed down to her that showed nothing but love, respect and admirable for the fifth lady of Bad Boys . Lil Kim also took on the Barclays stage with an exuberant performance that quickly reminded everyone who the real queen of rap is, that is...in case anyone had even forgotten. Apparently, time seems to have healed all wounds between Evans and Lil Kim, as they eventually joined forces on the same stage. Mary J. Blige, who was technically a guest also put on a memorable performance, performing "Can't Knock The Hustle" alongside Jay-Z and "I'm Goin Down" with Puff. After her performance with Puff, Blige reminisced on her and Puff's friendship, crediting him for what she's become.
"Thank you for believing in me more than I ever believed in myself."
Puff's first girl group, Total were also welcomed on stage and performed their 1996 hit "Kissing You."
As if the original lineup wasn't enough to get the crowd going wild, the guest list was nothing short of excellent. Jay-Z, Nas, The Lox, DMX, Fabolous, Busta Rhymes, Usher, Rick Ross, Desiigner, 2Milly and Stevie J were also present at the reunion. Even Shyne Po made an appearance...virtually. The rapper, who was deported back to Belize in 2009, appeared on video saying,
"It was an honor and a privilege to be part of one of the greatest record companies ever. You heard? I want to say happy birthday to the greatest rapper of all time, Notorious BIG, Big Poppa, Frank White. Brooklyn forever."
The love was definitely felt and reciprocated.
"The first artist that started Bad Boy Records. If it wasn’t for you, there’d be no Bad Boy. I love you so much, deeper than a sister," Puff expressed.
The Bad Boy family might have not always felt like family to those involved and associated. Throughout the years, there has been bad blood running through the label as way too many artists have come and gone. But what was left on the stage this past weekend was truly honorary and heartfelt. Rest in peace to the greatest.
In case you missed it or want to relive it, here's a recap video from RevoltTV.