The legendary legacy of Biggie Smalls is about to enter a new chapter, with his iconic catalog potentially changing ownership for a record-breaking price. According to a new report from The Hollywood Reporter, Primary Wave is reportedly nearing a deal to acquire half of the late rapper’s publishing rights, master recordings, and publicity rights, setting the stage for a monumental transaction in the music industry.
The deal, which is expected to be finalized within the next few weeks, could have significant ramifications not only for Biggie’s family but for the music world at large. The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed that the publishing catalog—encompassing Biggie’s timeless compositions rather than his original recordings—is expected to be valued at a staggering $100 million. In addition, the master recordings are said to be worth between $30 million and $50 million.
Sources close to the deal suggest that the final sale price may ultimately fall short of $100 million, but this doesn’t diminish the potential for the deal to reshape the way the late rapper’s music is experienced by fans, marketers, and the industry itself. The news comes just a week after the death of Biggie’s beloved mother, Violetta Wallace, who played a crucial role in managing her son’s estate after his untimely death in 1997.
Violetta Wallace’s Legacy: A Matriarch’s Enduring Influence
Violetta Wallace’s passing on February 21, 2025, marks the end of an era for the late rapper’s family and fans alike. At 78, she died in hospice care in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, leaving behind a legacy of immense influence over her son’s estate and his enduring place in hip hop history.
As the matriarch of the Wallace family, Violetta Wallace not only cared for her son during his life but also fought tirelessly to preserve and elevate his legacy after his tragic death. Under her stewardship, Biggie’s estate saw its value increase from an estimated $10 million in 1997 to more than $160 million today. Her commitment to Biggie’s legacy and her determination to safeguard his reputation and artistic contributions have made her an instrumental figure in shaping the narrative of his career.
In the wake of her death, Biggie’s Invisible Bully clothing brand, which celebrates his music and influence, posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. The post mourned the loss of the “matriarch” who dedicated her life to uplifting her son and ensuring his impact would continue long after his passing. The family expressed their grief, asking for privacy during this difficult time but also sharing their gratitude for the overwhelming love and support they received from fans worldwide.
The Impact of Biggie’s Music Catalog Sale
The sale of Biggie Smalls’ catalog will likely send ripples throughout the entertainment industry, particularly in how music rights are bought, sold, and marketed. Biggie is often cited as one of the most influential artists in the history of rap, with his groundbreaking albums Ready to Die and Life After Death solidifying his place as a rap icon. His influence spans generations, and his music continues to inspire artists across genres.
Primary Wave, the company at the forefront of the purchase, is known for acquiring and managing music catalogs of high-profile artists, securing lucrative licensing deals and furthering the reach of their estates. If the deal goes through, Biggie’s work will undoubtedly find new opportunities for exposure, from films to advertisements, streaming services, and beyond.
Moreover, the deal highlights a growing trend in the music industry where major artists’ estates and catalogs are being sold for vast sums of money, driven by the booming demand for music rights. This trend is also fueled by the increasing importance of music in entertainment marketing, where iconic tracks are used to elevate brands and appeal to younger audiences.
