Voletta Wallace, the mother of the late American rapper The Notorious B.I.G., has passed away at the age of 78. She died of natural causes on Friday morning in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, according to the Monroe County Coroner.
Wallace was widely known for managing the estate of her son, Christopher Wallace, popularly known as Biggie Smalls. Her relentless dedication to preserving his legacy ensured that his influence in hip-hop remained strong decades after his untimely death. Biggie, who was one of the most celebrated rappers of his era, was murdered in a drive-by shooting in 1997 at the age of 24.
By the time of Wallace’s passing, her son’s estate had significantly grown, reaching an estimated worth of $160 million—an impressive rise from the $10 million it was valued at when Biggie was killed. This financial growth was largely attributed to Voletta Wallace’s careful management of her son’s brand, music rights, and various business ventures. Her involvement in overseeing merchandise sales, posthumous album releases, and licensing deals ensured that Biggie’s name remained relevant in the music industry.
Her death comes months after she made controversial remarks about Sean “Diddy” Combs, the former music mogul who played a pivotal role in launching Biggie’s career. Combs, who is currently in jail awaiting trial on multiple charges, including rape, was once a close associate of the Wallace family. In 1993, Biggie became the first artist to sign with Combs’ label, Bad Boy Records, a move that would catapult him into rap superstardom. However, in recent times, Voletta Wallace had distanced herself from Combs, making statements that left many in the music industry shocked.
Throughout her life, Wallace remained a key figure in keeping Biggie’s legacy alive. She played an instrumental role in posthumous album releases, documentaries, and business ventures tied to her son’s name. The 2009 biopic Notorious, which chronicled Biggie’s life and career, was co-produced by Wallace and ensured that new generations were introduced to her son’s impact on hip-hop culture. She also worked closely with music executives to maintain her son’s publishing rights and royalties, securing deals that contributed to the estate’s financial success. Wallace was also involved in various licensing agreements that allowed Biggie’s music and imagery to appear in films, commercials, and brand collaborations, further expanding his posthumous influence.
Wallace, originally from Jamaica, moved to the United States in search of better opportunities. As a single mother, she worked multiple jobs to provide for her son, a struggle that Biggie often referenced in his lyrics. Despite the challenges, she remained devoted to raising him with strong values, a theme evident in many interviews where she discussed her pride in his accomplishments. She often spoke of the sacrifices she made to ensure that Biggie had the best opportunities in life, recalling stories of working as a preschool teacher while managing their home in Brooklyn.
In an interview reflecting on Biggie’s legacy, Wallace once said, “I may have lost my son, but I gained a responsibility to ensure that his story is told the right way. His music, his words, and his message will live on forever.” She frequently expressed that her son was more than just an artist—he was a storyteller, a voice for the struggles of young Black men in America.
Following Biggie’s death, Wallace became a prominent voice in seeking justice for her son. The circumstances surrounding his murder remain unsolved, fueling speculation and theories over the years. Wallace, alongside the rapper’s fans and loved ones, continuously sought answers, though no arrests were ever made in connection to his killing. She often participated in interviews, urging authorities to take the case more seriously and calling for justice. Her dedication to uncovering the truth made her a respected figure in the hip-hop community and beyond.
In her later years, Wallace devoted time to philanthropic efforts, particularly within the Brooklyn community where she and Biggie once lived. She established the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation, which provided educational scholarships and resources for underprivileged youth. Through this foundation, she aimed to uplift the same community that had shaped her son’s journey. Many students who benefited from her efforts expressed gratitude, emphasizing how her generosity had transformed their lives.
Many from the hip-hop community and beyond have shared their condolences and reflected on Wallace’s impact. Rapper and actor Nas wrote, “Voletta Wallace was the definition of strength and perseverance. She made sure Biggie’s name would never be forgotten.”
Diddy, despite recent controversies, also paid tribute, saying, “Miss Wallace was a mother to all of us. She fought hard for Big’s legacy and inspired so many.”
Jay-Z, another Brooklyn-raised rap icon, commented, “She was more than Biggie’s mother—she was a symbol of resilience. Her contributions to hip-hop culture can’t be overlooked.”
Wallace’s passing marks the end of an era for those who admired her unwavering commitment to her son’s memory. As the hip-hop world mourns, her work in preserving Biggie’s influence will undoubtedly continue to shape the genre’s history for years to come.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced, but fans and celebrities alike are expected to honor her life and contributions in the coming days. Her impact as a mother, entrepreneur, and guardian of one of hip-hop’s greatest legacies will not be forgotten. The music industry owes a great deal to her efforts, and her influence will remain alive through the countless artists who continue to draw inspiration from Biggie’s work. In a world where hip-hop has become a global phenomenon, Voletta Wallace’s dedication to preserving its roots serves as a reminder of the power of legacy and family.
