Voletta Wallace, the mother of the late rapper The Notorious B.I.G., passed away at the age of 78 at her home in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. Monroe County Coroner Thomas Yanac confirmed her death, stating that she died of natural causes after being on hospice care.
The Notorious B.I.G., also known as Christopher Wallace, was one of the most influential figures in rap music. He was tragically shot to death at the young age of 24 in Los Angeles in 1997, and his murder remains unsolved. Voletta Wallace was a dedicated guardian of her son’s legacy, initially dismissing his music as “noise” before coming to appreciate and embrace it after his passing.
In a poignant interview with the Associated Press in 2017, Wallace reflected on her son’s talent and the impact of his music on her. She described the emotional experience of finally listening to his music and recognizing his artistry, expressing deep admiration for his voice and lyrical prowess.
In recent years, Wallace served as an executive producer on the Netflix documentary “Biggie: I Got a Story to Tell,” shedding light on her personal journey and the public perception of her role in her son’s life and career. Despite her private nature, Wallace found herself thrust into the public eye following her son’s untimely death, grappling with misconceptions and rumors about her knowledge of his activities.
The Notorious B.I.G.’s music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, with his debut album “Ready to Die” and posthumous release “Life After Death” achieving immense commercial success. His impact on the rap genre is undeniable, with iconic hits like “Big Poppa” and “Hypnotize” solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
Voletta Wallace’s passing marks the end of an era for fans of The Notorious B.I.G., as they remember and celebrate the enduring legacy of both mother and son. Her dedication to preserving his memory and music will forever be cherished by those who admire and respect the iconic rapper.