Artist: Big Pokey
Album Title: Hardest Pit in the Litter
Release Date: November 16, 1999
Label: Chevis Entertainment
Genre: Southern Hip Hop, Houston Rap
Track Listing:
1. "Intro"
2. "Hardest Pit"
3. "Who Dat Talking Down"
4. "Ball N' Parlay"
5. "Pimps, Playas & Hustlas" (feat. Big Moe)
6. "Don't Play"
7. "My Life"
8. "Trick Ain't Shit"
9. "Raising Cane"
10. "Freestyle" (feat. Mike D, Haircut Joe & Will Lean)
11. "Crook for Life"
12. "Skit"
13. "Coming Up" (feat. Mr. 3-2)
14. "That Shit Ain't Right"
15. "Snitches"
16. "All in the Game" (feat. Chris Ward & Lil' O)
Background:
Big Pokey, born Milton Powell, is a prominent figure in the Houston rap scene and a member of the Screwed Up Click (SUC), a collective founded by DJ Screw. Known for his deep voice and laid-back flow, Big Pokey has been a significant influence in Southern hip hop, particularly in the subgenre of Chopped and Screwed music. *Hardest Pit in the Litter* is his debut studio album, which helped cement his status in the rap community.
Album Content:
*Hardest Pit in the Litter* is characterized by its Southern rap sound, featuring heavy beats, slow-tempo rhythms, and the distinctive Houston style. The album includes collaborations with fellow SUC members and other notable Houston rappers, reflecting the city's vibrant hip hop culture.
Key Tracks:
1. **"Hardest Pit"** - The title track, setting the tone for the album with Big Pokey's authoritative delivery and gritty lyrics.
2. **"Who Dat Talking Down"** - One of the standout tracks, known for its catchy hook and classic Southern beat.
3. **"Ball N' Parlay"** - Featuring Big Pokey's smooth flow over a laid-back instrumental, this track exemplifies the Houston sound.
4. **"Pimps, Playas & Hustlas"** (feat. Big Moe) - A collaboration that highlights the synergy between Big Pokey and Big Moe, combining melodic elements with streetwise lyrics.
5. **"Snitches"** - A hard-hitting track addressing themes of loyalty and betrayal.
6. **"Freestyle"** - Showcasing Big Pokey's skills in a more raw, unstructured format typical of the Screwed Up Click's freestyle sessions.
Production:
The album features production that aligns with the Southern hip hop aesthetic, including contributions from:
- Double D
- Noke D
- Sean "Solo" Jemison
- Big Swift
These producers help create a soundscape that is both hard-hitting and smooth, embodying the essence of Houston rap.
Reception:
*Hardest Pit in the Litter* received positive reviews for its authentic representation of Houston's hip hop scene and Big Pokey's commanding presence on the mic. Critics and fans alike appreciated the album's adherence to the regional style while showcasing Big Pokey's unique voice and lyrical prowess.
Legacy:
The album is considered a classic within the Houston rap community and among fans of Southern hip hop. Big Pokey's contributions to the genre and his role in the Screwed Up Click have left a lasting impact, with *Hardest Pit in the Litter* serving as a key part of his legacy.
Conclusion:
*Hardest Pit in the Litter* is a definitive album in the Southern hip hop canon, showcasing Big Pokey's deep, resonant voice and street-smart lyrics. It reflects the Houston rap scene's unique sound and Big Pokey's significant role within it. The album remains a touchstone for fans of the genre and a testament to Big Pokey's enduring influence.