Carla Hayden, the Librarian of Congress, announced the inclusion of 25 recordings into the esteemed National Recording Registry. Notably, this year’s additions pay homage to hip-hop culture, featuring The Notorious B.I.G.’s groundbreaking debut album Ready to Die and the timeless single “La-Di-Da-Di” by Doug E. Fresh and MC Ricky D.
Ready to Die and “La-Di-Da-Di” will join the 2024 National Recording Registry alongside classics like ABBA’s “Dancing Queen” and Bill Wither’s “Ain’t No Sunshine”.
Hayden praised the 25 new additions for their profound impact on music history, labeling them as invaluable recordings cherished by the American public.
“The Library of Congress is dedicated to preserving the rich tapestry of American history and culture through the National Recording Registry,” Hayden remarked. “We’ve carefully selected these audio treasures, spanning a century of music and comedy, with input from the public.”
“La-Di-Da-Di” stands as one of the most sampled tracks in hip-hop history, showcasing the genre’s global influence and innovative spirit. Doug E. Fresh’s beatboxing and MC Ricky D’s storytelling revolutionized hip-hop in the 1980s.
Snoop Dogg’s rendition of “Lodi Dodi” on his debut album in 1993 marked a turning point in hip-hop’s attitude toward covering classic tracks. The Library of Congress notes over 1,000 references to “La-Di-Da-Di” in subsequent songs.
Biggie Smalls’ Impact
Ready to Die features some of Biggie Smalls’ most iconic tracks, defining the sound of New York hip-hop in the mid-’90s. Produced by legends like DJ Premier and Easy Mo Bee, the album blends funk-infused beats with vivid storytelling.
Widely hailed as one of the greatest hip-hop albums, Ready to Die sold 57,000 units in its debut week and garnered a Grammy nomination. Biggie’s dominance at the 1995 Source Awards, winning four trophies, underscored the album’s cultural significance.
With their induction into the National Recording Registry, Ready to Die and “La-Di-Da-Di” join a select group of 16 Rap/Hip-Hop recordings, alongside classics like Nas’ Illmatic and Tupac Shakur’s “Dear Mama”.
Beyond hip-hop, the Registry celebrates a diverse array of musical genres and eras. This year’s additions range from Perry Como to Green Day, reflecting the Registry’s commitment to preserving the nation’s sonic heritage.
Members of the public play a crucial role in shaping the Registry, with nearly 2,900 nominations submitted this year. This democratic process ensures that diverse voices contribute to the preservation of America’s musical legacy.