Heartbreaking news to share today, I Love Old School Music family… Voletta Wallace, the mother of the late rapper The Notorious B.I.G., passed away at the age of 78 on Friday, February 21, 2025, at her home in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. According to Monroe County Coroner Thomas Yanac, she was under hospice care and died of natural causes.
Born in Jamaica, Voletta Wallace immigrated to the United States and settled in Brooklyn, New York. She worked as a schoolteacher and single-handedly raised her son, Christopher Wallace, who would later be known as The Notorious B.I.G. Despite initial reservations about his music, which she once referred to as “noise,” Voletta became a steadfast supporter of her son’s burgeoning career.
Tragedy struck in 1997 when Christopher was fatally shot in Los Angeles at the age of 24, a case that remains unsolved. In the aftermath, Voletta dedicated herself to preserving and promoting her son’s legacy. She managed his estate, which grew from an estimated $10 million at the time of his death to approximately $160 million.
In 2009, Voletta served as a producer for the biographical film “Notorious,” which chronicled her son’s life and career. She was portrayed by actress Angela Bassett in the movie.
Beyond her work in film, Voletta was instrumental in various initiatives to honor her son’s memory. She launched the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation, an organization focused on providing educational resources to children.
In 2020, Voletta proudly represented her son during his posthumous induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Reflecting on the honor, she expressed immense pride in his accomplishments, stating, “As a mother, I’m extremely proud of his accomplishments… it’s an astute honor, and as a mother, I’m just elated for that.”
Voletta’s commitment to her son’s legacy extended to the music industry, where she oversaw the release of posthumous albums and collaborations. Her efforts ensured that The Notorious B.I.G.’s influence remained prominent in the evolving hip-hop landscape.
In her personal reflections, Voletta often spoke about the emotional journey of coming to terms with her son’s music and its impact. She recounted a poignant moment when she immersed herself in his work, stating, “I cried so much that day just listening to the music… I said, ‘Oh my God – that was a talented young man to put those words together.’ He had a beautiful voice. I love his voice.”
Voletta Wallace’s unwavering dedication to her son’s memory has left an indelible mark on the music community and fans worldwide. Her efforts not only preserved The Notorious B.I.G.’s legacy but also highlighted the profound bond between a mother and her son. As the hip-hop community mourns her passing, her contributions continue to inspire and resonate. Voletta Wallace, rest peacefully queen. 🙏🏾👑
