Voletta Wallace, the devoted mother of legendary rapper Notorious B.I.G., has died at the age of 78. Her passing was confirmed by the Monroe County coroner, with no cause specified.
As a single mother and immigrant from Jamaica, Ms. Wallace played a pivotal role in shaping her son’s legacy after his tragic death in 1997. She worked tirelessly to cement his status as a hip-hop legend, producing the 2009 biopic “Notorious” and participating in various documentaries, including “Biggie: I Got a Story to Tell” in 2021.
Ms. Wallace’s influence on her son’s music was evident, as she exposed him to a diverse range of genres, including reggae, jazz, and country. Her love for country music, in particular, had a lasting impact on Notorious B.I.G.’s style.
Throughout her life, Ms. Wallace sought justice for her son’s unsolved murder, filing a wrongful-death suit against the city of Los Angeles in 2002. Although the case was eventually dismissed, her determination and resilience inspired countless fans and helped keep her son’s memory alive.
Voletta Wallace’s legacy will continue to inspire and influence the music world, as her son’s enduring popularity is a testament to her unwavering dedication and love.