The Notorious B.I.G.

The Notorious B.I.G., born Christopher Wallace, is regarded as one of the most influential rappers of all time. Rising from Brooklyn, his distinctive, laid-back flow and vivid, semi-autobiographical lyrics about hardship and celebration made him a central figure in East Coast hip-hop. He signed with *Sean Combs*' #Bad Boy Records# and achieved massive success with his 1994 debut album, 'Ready to Die'. He also founded and mentored the group *Junior M.A.F.I.A.*, which included *Lil' Kim*. His career was cut short by his unsolved murder, but his posthumous album 'Life After Death' solidified his legendary status, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.