Lil’ Kim Honors Voletta Wallace with a Heartfelt Tribute: ‘She Called Me Daughter’—Inside Their Repaired Bond After Biggie’s Death
A month after the heartbreaking loss of Voletta Wallace, the beloved mother of hip-hop legend The Notorious B.I.G., rapper Lil’ Kim took to social media to pay tribute in an emotional post. On Sunday (March 16), Kim shared a series of text exchanges and personal reflections on Instagram, giving fans an intimate glimpse into her relationship with Ms. Wallace, whom she lovingly referred to as “mommy.”
A Relationship Repaired Over Time
Lil’ Kim revealed that despite past tensions following Biggie’s tragic death, she and Ms. Wallace were able to rebuild their relationship over the past decade, attributing the healing to “God’s work.” The Queen Bee expressed gratitude for the deepened bond they had cultivated in recent years.
“We spent the last 9-10 years strengthening our relationship… But the last 4-5 years were really special because we started to talk at least once a month,” Kim wrote in her heartfelt post. “Then eventually, once a week, then 2-3 times a week. You would send me beautiful photos of yourself and an update of your garden, which had become your life. The flowers and crops you planted would come along nicely—except sometimes those damn peonies.”
A Mother-Daughter Bond
Kim also shared a touching memory about how Ms. Wallace acknowledged her as family. “Everyone who was close to you called you Meema, but I called you ‘mommy’ like a second mom,” she recalled. “Which is why the 11th photo is very special to me—because that was the day you showed me your phone and said, ‘Look what I have you saved as.’ I said, ‘What?’ You said, ‘Daughter.’ I smiled so big it warmed my heart, and you began to call me daughter all the time after that.”
Kim’s words highlighted the profound impact Ms. Wallace had on her life, demonstrating how their bond transcended past conflicts. The tribute underscored a love that stood the test of time, one rooted in understanding, forgiveness, and mutual respect.
Plans Left Unfulfilled
According to Kim, Ms. Wallace had been eager for them to spend more time together in person. “Our conversations got more intense. You kept saying we needed to spend time together,” Kim wrote. “You wanted me to come to the house, and I couldn’t wait to do that, especially since it had been a while since I’d been there. I had plans to come around Christmas, but you were going to Jamaica to see your mom, so I said I would come when you got back after the new year sometime.”
Sadly, fate had other plans, and Kim never got the chance to reunite with Ms. Wallace as she had hoped.
A Star-Studded Memorial Service
Voletta Wallace’s memorial service was held on March 12, 2025, at the Frank E. Campbell Funeral Chapel in New York City. The intimate yet star-studded ceremony was attended by some of hip-hop’s biggest names, including Lil’ Kim, Ma$e, Faith Evans, and Ms. Wallace’s beloved grandchildren, Christopher Wallace Jr. and T’yanna Wallace.
Also in attendance were Gloria Carter, mother of JAY-Z, and Christian “King” Combs, the son of Diddy, among others who came to pay their respects. The memorial was a testament to the immense love and admiration Ms. Wallace commanded, not only as Biggie’s mother but as a cherished figure in the hip-hop community.
A Legacy That Lives On
Voletta Wallace was more than just the mother of one of rap’s greatest icons—she was a beacon of strength, wisdom, and grace. In the years following Biggie’s untimely passing in 1997, she became an advocate for preserving his legacy, ensuring that his music, influence, and story remained relevant to new generations. She also played a significant role in managing his estate, upholding his memory through projects like the Notorious B.I.G. estate and the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation.
Kim’s tribute served as a powerful reminder of Ms. Wallace’s lasting impact—not only on Biggie’s fans but also on those who had the privilege of knowing her personally.
Final Thoughts
Lil’ Kim’s emotional post resonated deeply with fans, many of whom have followed her complicated history with Ms. Wallace over the years. While their relationship was once strained, their eventual reconciliation stands as proof that love, healing, and forgiveness can mend even the deepest wounds.
As hip-hop continues to evolve, the legacy of The Notorious B.I.G. and his mother, Voletta Wallace, remains a cornerstone of the culture. And through heartfelt tributes like Kim’s, their stories will continue to inspire for generations to come.
