The Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation, in partnership with the Office of Majority Leader Laurie A. Cumbo, hosted the official event celebrating the street renaming of Christopher “Notorious B.I.G.” Wallace Way on June 11, 2019, at the intersection of St. James Place and Fulton Street in Brooklyn, where the late rapper was born and raised.
The event commemorated the life and legacy of the legendary Notorious B.I.G. and his impact on music as one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all time. Hundreds of fans showed up to witness this historic moment, joining Biggie’s family and friends in celebration.
Notorious B.I.G.’s mother Voletta Wallace, his children T’Yanna Wallace and Christopher Wallace Jr., Lil’ Kim, Jadakiss, Lil’ Cease, DJ Enuff, Damion “DRoc” Butler, Diggy Simmons, DJ Mister Cee, Mark Pitts, Wayne Barrow, Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams, New York City Council Majority Leader Laurie A. Cumbo, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, New York City Council Member of the 36th District Robert E. Cornegy Jr., and New York City Council Member of the 41st District Alicka Ampry-Samuel were in attendance.
Notorious B.I.G.’s son, Christopher Wallace Jr., shared heartfelt words about his father and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love at the event. Lil’ Kim, Lil’ Cease, DRoc and DJ Mister Cee also shared remarks on the incredible impact B.I.G. made on hip-hop culture and their favorite memories.
“I’ve always known this day was going to come. I used to dream about a street being named after Biggie because it was only right. Everyone from Brooklyn represents him with so much love and passion,” said Lil’ Kim.
Wallace, Notorious B.I.G.’s mother, captivated the crowd with her heartfelt remarks. She thanked all of the fans for their unwavering support and expressed appreciation for how loved her son was. She closed with a touching sentiment about always choosing love in life.
“This street is going to be a love street, people are going to come here and are going to know that a young man, my son was here,” Wallace said.
Wallace, her grandson, Barrow and Lil’ Kim proudly pulled the chord to reveal the Christopher “Notorious B.I.G.” Wallace Way street sign to the public, as DJ Enuff played B.I.G.’s classic hit, “Hypnotize.” The crowd roared and cheered in response.
Though Notorious B.I.G.’s career was shortlived due to his untimely death in 1997, he is continually celebrated by his peers and millions of fans worldwide. His legacy will continue to live on forever in Brooklyn and the hearts of his fans.
Photo gallery credit: Mychal Watts
