Christopher George Latore Wallace, better known by his stage names Biggie Smalls or AKA The Notorious B.I.G., was an American rapper who became one of the most influential figures in hip-hop. Born on May 21, 1972, in Brooklyn, New York, Biggie's storytelling ability, deep voice, and flow quickly established him as a dominant force in the rap scene. Despite his brief career, his impact on hip-hop is immeasurable, with his music continuing to influence artists and listeners worldwide. Biggie's life was tragically cut short when he was murdered in 1997, but his legacy endures through his iconic music and lasting influence on the genre.
Biggie Smalls Career Highlights
1972 Christopher Wallace was born on May 21, 1972, in Brooklyn, New York.
1991 Wallace began rapping as a teenager and recorded a demo tape under the name Biggie Smalls, a reference to a character from the 1975 film "Let's Do It Again."
1992 Biggie's demo tape caught the attention of Sean "Puffy" Combs, who signed him to Uptown Records and later to his own label, Bad Boy Records.
1993 He released his debut single "Party and Bullshit" which gained substantial underground acclaim.
1994 Biggie released his debut album "Ready to Die” which received critical acclaim and commercial success, featuring hits like "Juicy” "Big Poppa” and "One More Chance."
Billboard Success "Big Poppa" reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100.
1995 Biggie collaborated with several artists, including his wife, Faith Evans, and Junior M.A.F.I.A., a group he helped to form and promote.
1996~The East Coast-West Coast hip-hop rivalry intensified, with Biggie and Tupac Shakur often at the center of the feud.
"Life After Death” Biggie recorded his second album, "Life After Death” which was slated for release in 1997.
1997 Biggie was murdered in a drive-by shooting in Los Angeles on March 9, 1997.
Posthumous Release "Life After Death" was released 16 days after his death and became one of the best-selling hip-hop albums of all time.
Biggie Smalls Grammy Awards
1996
Nominated - Best Rap Solo Performance for "Big Poppa."
1998
Nominated - Best Rap Album for "Life After Death."
Nominated - Best Rap Solo Performance for "Hypnotize."
Nominated - Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for "Mo Money Mo Problems."
3 Most Famous Biggie Smalls Songs
1. "Juicy" (1994)
- Widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop songs of all time, "Juicy" chronicles Biggie's rise from poverty to fame.
2. "Big Poppa" (1994)
- This hit single from "Ready to Die" showcases Biggie's smooth flow and charismatic personality.
3. "Hypnotize" (1997)
- Released posthumously, "Hypnotize" became a massive hit and is known for its catchy hook and infectious beat.
~Biggie Smalls Quotes
‘It was all a dream, I used to read Word Up! Magazine
– from the song "Juicy."
On Success…
‘We can't change the world unless we change ourselves.
Biggie Smalls Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- East Coast-West Coast Feud: Biggie was embroiled in a highly publicized feud with Tupac Shakur, which many believe contributed to both of their untimely deaths.
- Legal Troubles: Throughout his career, Biggie faced several legal issues, including arrests for weapons and drug charges.
- Death Conspiracy: The circumstances surrounding Biggie's murder remain a topic of speculation and controversy, with various theories about who was responsible.
- Influence: Despite his short career, Biggie's influence on hip-hop is profound, with many contemporary artists citing him as an inspiration.
- Posthumous Honors: Biggie has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and his music continues to be celebrated and studied.
Biggie Smalls Legacy
Though his life was tragically short, his influence on music, culture, and future generations of artists is undeniable. Biggie's music continues to resonate, keeping his spirit alive and ensuring his place as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
Biggie Smalls ratings
