The Notorious Big

The Notorious B.I.G., born Christopher Wallace on May 21, 1972, in Brooklyn, New York, became a pivotal figure in the 1990s East Coast hip-hop scene. His 1994 debut album, "Ready to Die," featured iconic tracks like "Juicy" and "Big Poppa," earning multi-platinum status and critical acclaim. In 1995, he won the Billboard Music Award for Hip-Hop Artist of the Year. Wallace's storytelling prowess and distinctive flow set him apart, further showcased in his second album, "Life After Death," released posthumously in 1997. The album included hits "Hypnotize" and "Mo Money Mo Problems," both reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100. Tragically, Wallace was murdered on March 9, 1997, in Los Angeles.