The link between [most] long-duration Gamma-Ray Bursts (GRBs) and Type Ic 
supernovae that arise from core-collapse of very massive stars without 
their outer envelopes is well-established.  While the few GRB-related 
supernovae have been studied in detail, we do not know the range of 
properties of the comparison set of normal and energetic SNe Ib/c; nor do 
we fully understand the conditions that produce each kind of stellar 
explosion. I will present a selection of very well time-sampled optical 
and NIR data of SNe Ib/c that will double the world-supply of 
well-observed events. In conjunction with the most recent literature, I 
will discuss their implications for the SN-GRB connection, in particular 
that asphericity is common during the explosion of even normal SNe Ib/c. 
Furthermore, I will discuss the environments and the metallicities of the 
sites of SN with and without observed GRBs, and their implications for GRB 
progenitor scenarios. I will conclude with the most promising venues of 
upcoming research that can clarify how massive stars die.