The Notorious B.I.G.

Christopher George Latore Wallace (May 21, 1972 – March 9, 1997), known by the stage names the Notorious B.I.G., Biggie Smalls, and Biggie, was an American rapper. Rooted in the New York rap scene and gangsta rap traditions, he is widely considered one of the greatest rappers of all time. Wallace became known for his distinctive, laidback lyrical delivery, offsetting his lyrics' often grim content. His music was often semi-autobiographical, detailing hardship and criminality but also debauchery and celebration. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York City, Wallace was the first artist to sign with Sean 'Puffy' Combs's Bad Boy Records in 1993. Notorious for his guest appearances on other artists' singles, his debut studio album, Ready to Die (1994), gained widespread critical acclaim, featuring tracks like 'Juicy' and 'Big Poppa'. The album made him a central figure in East Coast hip hop, restoring New York's prominence at a time when the West Coast was dominating the genre. Wallace's involvement in the growing East Coast–West Coast hip hop feud and subsequent murder in 1997 have played a major role in his legacy. His second album, Life After Death (1997), achieved significant commercial success and diamond certification posthumously.