Russell Simmons stopped by VH1’s “Big Morning Buzz Live” earlier today to discuss Heavy D’s influence on hip-hop. Simmons said when he and Uptown Records founder Andre Harrell first listened to “Mr. Big Stuff” they were blown away by Heavy’s vocals and melody.
Simmons goes on to say “Heavy was the first R&B rapper to be accepted. They built Uptown records and the new jack swing sound on his ideas.”
Heavy D passed away yesterday at the age of 44.
Watch the interview below:
Get More: Big Morning Buzz Live
RELATED:
Jay-Z & Kanye West Honor Heavy D In NYC
Celebrities On Twitter React To The Death Of Heavy D