Christopher George Latore Wallace (The Notorious B.I.G.)

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Christopher Wallace, known professionally as The Notorious B.I.G. (or Biggie Smalls), was born on May 21, 1972, in Brooklyn, New York. Widely regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time, Biggie played a central role in bringing East Coast hip-hop back to prominence in the 1990s. He grew up in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood, where he developed his lyrical skills through street storytelling and freestyle rap. His talent caught the attention of Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs, who signed him to Bad Boy Records. Biggie’s debut album, Ready to Die (1994), was a critical and commercial success. It featured hits like “Juicy” and “Big Poppa,” combining vivid narratives of street life with smooth flow and charisma. The album established him as a dominant voice in hip-hop. His second album, Life After Death (1997), was released just weeks after his death and became one of the best-selling hip-hop albums ever. It showcased his versatility, from hardcore rap to mainstream appeal, solidifying his legacy. Biggie became a central figure in the East Coast–West Coast rivalry, often contrasted with Tupac Shakur. Despite the tension, his focus remained on music and storytelling. On March 9, 1997, Biggie was killed in a drive-by shooting in Los Angeles at the age of 24. Like Tupac’s, his murder remains unsolved. The Notorious B.I.G. is remembered for his unmatched flow, storytelling ability, and lasting influence on hip-hop culture.