Rapper Notorious B.I.G.’s estate has sold half of his publishing, masters, and likeness rights to music publisher Primary Wave. The deal, said to be worth over $100 million, was approved before his mother and longtime estate manager, Voletta Wallace, died.
Voletta had been in charge of the estate since Biggie’s death in 1997. She gradually gained full control of his music catalog—starting with an 85% stake from Bad Boy Records and later securing the remaining 15% in 2020.
According to Variety, in early 2025, shortly before her death at age 78, Voletta signed off on the deal with Primary Wave. The agreement gives the music publisher half-ownership of the estate, which includes rights to Biggie’s songs, name, voice, image, and other personal trademarks. The full estate is valued at more than $200 million.
Biggie, whose real name was Christopher Wallace, became one of Bad Boy Records’ first major artists. His legacy continues through timeless hits like “Juicy,” “Hypnotize,” and “Big Poppa.”
Primary Wave said it will work closely with the estate to keep Biggie’s legacy alive. The company plans to launch fewer but bigger projects while staying true to his image and brand.
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