Notorious BIG’s Legacy Secured in Historic £200 Million Catalogue Deal

Major Partnership Reshapes Hip-Hop Icon’s Estate

The estate of Christopher Wallace, known worldwide as The Notorious B.I.G., has completed a transformative deal with Primary Wave Music that underscores the enduring commercial and cultural value of the legendary rapper’s work. The partnership encompasses the late rapper’s music publishing and recordings, as well as his name, image, and likeness. This landmark agreement represents one of the most significant music catalogue sales in recent years.

The Details Behind the Deal

Primary Wave is taking a 50% interest in the estate, which was valued at $200 million. The deal, finalised in March 2025, came just weeks after the passing of Wallace’s mother, Voletta Wallace, who had controlled her son’s estate since his death in 1997. However, sources say she was involved in nearly every aspect of the deal’s negotiations. Under her stewardship, the estate grew dramatically in value—turning what was once valued at $10 million when he was killed in 1997 to a staggering reported $160 million nearly 30 years after his death.

Because the estate was doing most of the work bringing deals to the table to license and monetize the music, Voletta convinced Combs to raise the estate’s stake to 85% in the early 2000s, and acquired the remaining 15% in 2020. This strategic management positioned the estate for unprecedented growth.

Continuing Cultural Impact

The Notorious B.I.G.’s influence extends far beyond music sales. Notorious B.I.G. (real name: Christopher Wallace) is universally considered to be one of the greatest rappers of all time, if not the greatest, on the basis of just two albums and a handful of other tracks. In 2025, his legacy remains vibrant through various tributes, including the Brooklyn Nets turning their home opener against the Toronto Raptors into a full-throated tribute to the Brooklyn-bred legend in November.

Significance for Fans and the Industry

This partnership with Primary Wave, which already manages catalogues of iconic artists including Prince, Whitney Houston, and Bob Marley, ensures The Notorious B.I.G.’s music will continue to reach new audiences through strategic licensing opportunities for films, television, and other media. For hip-hop fans and the broader music industry, the deal represents both a preservation of Wallace’s artistic legacy and recognition of his enduring commercial appeal nearly three decades after his tragic death in 1997 at age 24. As catalogue acquisitions become increasingly common in the music industry, this deal stands as testament to the timeless value of authentic artistry.