National Recording Registry Honors Black Artists: New Inductees Include Notorious B.I.G., Doug E. Fresh, Slick Rick, and Bobby McFerrin

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FILE - Notorious B.I.G., who won rap artist and rap single of the year, clutches his awards at the podium during the Billboard Music Awards in New York, on evening, Dec. 6, 1995. Albums from ABBA, Blondie and the Notorious B.I.G. are entering the National Recording Registry at the Library of Congress. They're among the 25 titles announced Tuesday, April 16, 2024, that have been selected for preservation as “defining sounds of the nation’s history and culture." (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, File)
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Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden revealed the latest additions to the National Recording Registry, showcasing the legacy of influential Black artists. Among the chosen 25 recordings are iconic works by legends such as the Notorious B.I.G., Doug E. Fresh, Slick Rick, and Bobby McFerrin.

Included in the registry is the groundbreaking debut album “Ready to Die” by the Notorious B.I.G., marking a significant milestone in hip-hop history. Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick’s timeless single “La-Di-Da-Di” also earns its place, recognized as one of the most sampled recordings in music history. Additionally, Bobby McFerrin’s uplifting 1988 hit “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” is honored for its enduring critical acclaim and widespread appeal across generations.


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