The Notorious B.I.G., also known as Biggie Smalls, was an American rapper widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential artists in hip-hop history. Emerging from Brooklyn in the early 1990s, he became a central figure in the resurgence of East Coast hip-hop during a period dominated by West Coast rap. Known for his effortless flow, deep voice, and vivid storytelling, Biggie transformed street narratives into cinematic accounts of ambition, struggle, and survival. His debut album Ready to Die is considered a landmark recording, combining raw autobiographical material with polished production and crossover appeal. Biggie’s lyrical precision, rhythmic control, and narrative depth set new standards for rap performance and songwriting. Despite his short career, cut tragically short in 1997, his influence remains profound, shaping generations of MCs and solidifying his legacy as a foundational figure in modern hip-hop culture.