Biggie Smalls, also known as the Notorious B.I.G., remains a monumental figure in hip-hop history. His influence reached unimaginable heights during the 1990s, and his legacy continues to resonate today. Despite his untimely death at just 24, Biggie left behind not only a rich musical legacy but also two children who have forged their own paths in life.
Christopher Wallace, known as Biggie Smalls, captivated audiences with his storytelling and lyrical prowess. His songs, such as "Juicy" and "Big Poppa," showcased the struggles and triumphs of life in Brooklyn, making him a beacon of hope for many. Today, his children, T'yanna and Christopher Jr., strive to honor their father's memory in their own unique ways.
Both T'yanna and Christopher Jr. have made significant impacts in their respective fields. T'yanna has ventured into the world of fashion, while Christopher Jr. has embraced acting and entrepreneurship. Their journeys reflect not just a desire to keep their father's legacy alive but also a commitment to making their mark on the world.
Biggie Smalls Had Two Kids
Biggie Smalls, the iconic rapper, had two children: T'yanna Dream Wallace and Christopher "CJ" Wallace Jr. T'yanna was born in August 1993 to Biggie's high school girlfriend, Jan Jackson. By the time she was born, Biggie's relationship with Jackson had already soured. When Biggie was working on his groundbreaking album Ready to Die, he and Jan had already split, leaving T'yanna to grow up without her father during his meteoric rise.
Three months after T'yanna's birth, Biggie met and married R&B singer Faith Evans. Their union was short-lived, but they welcomed their son, Christopher Jr., in October 1996. Tragically, Biggie was murdered just months later, leaving both children without their father at a very young age. This loss has shaped T'yanna and CJ's lives profoundly, leading them to honor Biggie's legacy in different ways.
C.J. and T'yanna Wallace Pay Tribute to Their Dad
Despite the limited time spent with their father, both T'yanna and Christopher Jr. have worked diligently to celebrate Biggie's life and contributions. T'yanna has channeled her passion for fashion into a successful boutique named Notoriouss in Brooklyn. She sees this venture as a tribute to her father's influence on hip-hop culture and fashion, stating, "I wanted to do something where I could keep his name alive and also have me included in it."
Meanwhile, CJ has pursued a career in acting, even portraying a younger version of his father in the biopic Notorious. This role provided him with a deeper understanding of his father's life and struggles. CJ has also launched a cannabis business, Think BIG, which advocates for marijuana legalization and community reinvestment, furthering the legacy of social change that Biggie stood for.
C.J. Wallace Is Fighting for Change in His Father's Name
Christopher Jr. is not only an actor but also an entrepreneur dedicated to social justice. His brand, Frank White, honors Black culture and creativity, aiming to tell stories that reflect his father's impact on the community. CJ emphasizes the importance of sharing his father’s legacy beyond music, stating, "I would like to create some new things that honor his impact on the culture in new ways."
Through their respective endeavors, T'yanna and CJ Wallace are not just keeping their father's memory alive; they are reshaping it. They embody resilience and creativity, illustrating how the next generation can honor their roots while forging their unique paths. Each step they take pays homage to a man who changed the music industry forever, ensuring that Biggie Smalls' legacy will never fade away.
