Hip-Hop History: Fat Joe and Big Pun were among the first to witness Eminem’s talent at the Lyricist Lounge. Relive the moment through Fat Joe’s eyes in the full interview!

fat-joe-eminem-2025

Fat Joe Remembers the First Time He and Big Pun Saw Eminem Perform Live

During a recent episode of the “Joe & Jada” podcast, hip hop legend Fat Joe took a nostalgic trip down memory lane with Jadakiss, recalling the electrifying moment he and Big Pun witnessed Eminem’s very first live performance in New York City. The scene was set at the iconic Lyricist Lounge, where a young and hungry Slim Shady opened the show for Fat Joe and Big Pun—a night that would become a pivotal moment in hip hop history.

Eminem had Fat Joe & Big Pun GOING CRAZY at first-ever show in New York  City | Joe & Jadakiss - YouTube

“I was there the first time Eminem ever performed in New York,” Fat Joe recounted. “He opened up for me and Pun at the Lyricist Lounge. The Outsidaz, this group from New Jersey, brought him out, and you could just tell he was special.”

Eminem had Fat Joe & Big Pun GOING CRAZY at first-ever show in New York  City | Joe & Jadakiss - YouTube

Joe painted a vivid picture of the moment: “All those dudes had dreadlocks, and here was this super skinny kid—so skinny they were holding him by the back of his t-shirt to keep him from flying off the stage! He was just spitting so crazy. Me and Pun looked at each other like, ‘OH MY GOD! WHO’S THIS WHITE BOY? THAT BOY IS CRAZY!’”

The episode didn’t stop there. Joe and Jada also reminisced about other legendary moments in hip hop, including Biz Markie bringing out Big Daddy Kane for the first time, Big Daddy Kane introducing a young Jay-Z to the world, and an unforgettable KRS-One show that left the crowd in awe.

Moments like these serve as powerful reminders of hip hop’s rich history and the raw talent that continues to shape the culture. If you want to relive this epic conversation, be sure to check out the full interview below!