Voletta Wallace, the notorious B.I.G.’s mother, dead at 78

|Published 9:45 AM ET, Saturday February 22, 2025|

Voletta Wallace, the mother of hip-hop icon Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G has passed away at the age of 78. While she maintained a relatively private life, her influence on her son’s upbringing and the legacy he left behind are widely acknowledged. As a supportive matriarch, she helped shape the environment from which one of the most transformative figures in rap emerged.

Her passing resonates deeply within the music community and among fans who recognize the enduring impact of familial support in cultivating extraordinary talent. Tributes are flowing in, celebrating her quiet strength and the pivotal role she played in nurturing the spirit that would redefine an entire musical genre. This moment also invites a broader reflection on the significant, often understated contributions of family members who help shape cultural legends.

Her legacy is now intertwined with that of her son’s, a reminder that behind every groundbreaking artist is a network of love and support that helps foster their creative journey.