
The album was notable for its overt raunchy sexual tone and Kim's lyrical delivery, which was praised by music critics and is considered a classic album. Other rappers, including Jay-Z, Lil' Cease and Puff Daddy were featured on the album. She collaborated with a number of producers, such as Sean "Puff Daddy" Combs, Stevie J., David "Ski" Willis and Jermaine Dupri, among others. serving as the executive producer (besides this, he performed on four songs).

and their album Conspiracy (1995), Kim began working on her solo album with the Notorious B.I.G. After achieving success with the hip hop group Junior M.A.F.I.A. Hard Core is the debut studio album by American rapper Lil' Kim, released on November 12, 1996, by Undeas Recordings, Big Beat Records, and Atlantic Records.
