Fans to Memorialize Rapper

Family, friends and fans of Christopher Rios, the platinum-selling rapper know as "Big Pun," will gather in the South Bronx section of New York today to commemorate the first anniversary of his death, according to the Associated Press. Rios, who was best known for his imaginative lyrics, died on Feb. 7, 2000, from complications associated with obesity. At the time of his death, Rios weighed 698 pounds. In honor of Rios, a Bronx-based hip hop graffiti artist will paint a new mural, according to a news release. Loud Records also says it will release "Endangered Species," featuring hits from Big Pun's two albums plus new songs, collaborations and unreleased music. The album is expected to be in stores in early April.