The Notorious B.I.G., born Christopher Wallace, was an American rapper from Brooklyn, New York, prominent in East Coast hip hop during the early to mid-1990s. Emerging in the early 1990s, he became known for his deep voice, narrative lyricism, and rhythmic flow that blended vivid storytelling with themes of street life, ambition, and personal reflection. His music drew on gangsta rap and boom bap production styles, often featuring dense, sample-based beats and cinematic arrangements. Widely regarded for his technical skill, punchlines, and ability to craft concise, character-driven songs, he played a central role in shaping 1990s mainstream hip hop before his death in 1997.