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Guyanese-Born Jay Ammo Out Of The Voice But Wins Hearts With His Journey

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 28, 2025: Guyanese-born singer and U.S. Army veteran Jay Ammo, real name Jay Amarilli, has exited NBC’s The Voice, but not without leaving a powerful mark on both the judges and viewers alike.

The 29-year-old singer, who resides in Clarksville, Tennessee, stunned the judges during his March 4 audition with a soulful rendition of Ed Sheeran’s “The A Team,” earning a rare four-chair turn from the celebrity panel. His voice, story, and sincerity immediately connected with fans across the Caribbean and the U.S.

Born and raised in Guyana, Ammo recalled the struggles of pursuing music in his home country. “It wasn’t easy to pursue music as a career in Guyana,” he shared. “Back then, when I was doing it, you wouldn’t get sought after being the kind of artist that I am.”

While his parents supported his early love for guitar, they didn’t see music as a viable career path. But a nudge from a Sunday school teacher, who encouraged him to sing on stage, sparked a passion that has guided him ever since.

Later, his journey took a turn toward military service. A deployment to Afghanistan and time in the U.S. Army gave Ammo the mental strength and stability he needed. “The military gave me the confidence to go after my dreams,” he said. Eventually, he landed in Clarksville—close to the music mecca of Nashville—where his music career began to truly take off.

Ammo’s Voice journey ended during the battle round, where he performed Bob Marley’s classic “Is This Love” alongside fellow Team Legend member Renzo. Though Coach John Legend praised both artists, he ultimately chose Renzo to advance, noting his consistency and growth on the show.

Still, Ammo’s experience on The Voice was a breakthrough. “I blacked out from the minute I walked through those doors,” he admitted of his audition. “When I turned around and saw the chairs, I just told myself, ‘Don’t make a face.’”

Though his time on the show has come to an end, Ammo remains focused and optimistic. “I see myself going as far as my music will take me. The ultimate dream is seeing myself on stage where I don’t have to say a word—and everybody is just screaming my song back at me.”

He expressed gratitude to the people of Clarksville, the military, his fans in Guyana, and the community at Revel House, a local venue that helped support his musical path.

From the Caribbean coast to the national stage, Jay Ammo’s journey is likely far from over. See the battle here.

Trinidad-Born ‘Equalizer’ Star To Champion Black Filmmakers At 2025 Cross Continental Forum

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 26, 2025: Trinidad-born actress Lorraine Toussaint, best known for her commanding role as Aunt Vi on CBS’s hit series The Equalizer, is set to bring her star power, mentorship, and Caribbean pride to the 2nd Annual Cross Continental Forum (CCF) in Barbados, taking place from June 14-18, 2025.

Actress Lorraine Toussaint was born in Trinidad. (Getty image)

Toussaint joins an elite lineup of Black creatives, including acclaimed filmmaker Ava DuVernay and Booker Prize-winning Jamaican author Marlon James, at the pioneering event which focuses on Decolonizing Co-Production for Black Filmmakers. The Forum, spearheaded by the Canada-based CaribbeanTales Media Group (CTMG), is becoming a key platform for reshaping the global media landscape through the lens of Black storytelling and collaboration.

Toussaint, an award-winning actress, producer and teacher, will serve as a mentor throughout the five-day forum, supporting and guiding participants across the Caribbean and diaspora. She will also lend her voice as a celebrity juror for the forum’s “Big Pitch” alongside DuVernay.

From Orange is the New Black, for which she won a Critics Choice TV Award, to her standout roles in Law & Order, Saving Grace, and The Fosters, Toussaint has become a fierce presence on screen. Her return to the Caribbean for this forum underscores her deep commitment to nurturing Black talent and giving back to the region that shaped her.

“Lorraine brings a unique blend of brilliance, authenticity and generosity that will deeply enrich this platform,” said Frances-Anne Solomon, CEO of CaribbeanTales Media Group and founder of the CCF. “Having her at the Forum from beginning to end will be a powerful gift for all participants.”

CCF 2025 is supported by a wide range of global partners, including the Canada Media Fund, British Film Institute (BFI), Invest Barbados, the University of the West Indies (Cave Hill), and the National Cultural Foundation of Barbados. The forum aims to stimulate meaningful co-productions between Black and global majority creatives from Canada, the Caribbean, the UK, Africa, and beyond.

Guyanese-born actress and activist CCH Pounder, known for Avatar and NCIS: New Orleans, will also attend the forum in her role as head of the CCF Steering Committee. Meanwhile, James, author of A Brief History of Seven Killings and co-creator of the Jamaica-shot Netflix series Get Millie Black, will participate as a panelist, sharing his expertise and creative insights.

Applications for producers interested in participating in the 2025 Cross Continental Forum are open until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit ccf2025.com or contact applications@ccf2025.com.

Buju Banton To Headline Tobago’s Biggest-Ever Easter Festival

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 28, 2025: The island of Tobago is set to take center stage this Easter weekend, hosting what is being hailed as the biggest concert the island has ever seen, headlined by none other than reggae icon Buju Banton.

Buju Banton performing onstage during Buju Banton’s Long Walk To Freedom New York on July 14, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Returning to Trinidad and Tobago on April 20, Buju Banton will bring his unmatched energy and musical mastery to the Easter Sunday finale of the Rhythm and Soul Festival, an event that promises to uplift and unite through music. The concert will also feature reggae greats Gramps Morgan and Wayne Wonder, adding to what organizers describe as a “generational and spiritual celebration of music.”

The Tobago Festivals Commission has revamped the Easter weekend offerings to create a dynamic experience for both locals and visitors. “Buju Banton remains an undeniable force in music. His energy is unlike any other reggae entertainer, and we’re thrilled to be hosting him this Easter,” said a spokesperson for the Commission.

Kicking off the festivities on Thursday, April 17, internationally acclaimed Nigerian gospel singer Sinach will perform in Tobago for the first time. Known for hits like “Way Maker” and “I Know Who I Am,” Sinach will be joined by top Caribbean gospel acts including Positive, Blessed Messenger, and award-winning Guyanese artist Samuel Medas, in a spiritually uplifting event titled “Melodies from Heaven.”

On Saturday, April 19, the beloved Bucco Seafood Jazz Experience adds to the musical excitement with performances by international stars Jon Secada and Brian McKnight, alongside Trinidad’s vibrant new sensation Mical Teja.

Organizers say the Rhythm and Soul Festival is more than just music—it’s a movement to elevate Tobago’s tourism product and provide economic and creative opportunities for locals. “For our people here on the island, it’s more than just entertainment; it’s employment, it’s independence, it’s developing something from scratch that we can be proud to produce annually,” the spokesperson emphasized.

With ticket sales surging and anticipation high, organizers are encouraging travelers from Trinidad and across the region to secure their plans early. “This is a weekend of music, food, peace, and positive energy like no other,” they added.

Festival passes are available now at www.islandetickets.com, and updates can be found via @tobagofestivals on Instagram and Facebook.

Reggae Fans Mourn The Passing of Cocoa Tea – The Man Who Gave The World “Barack Obama”

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 11, 2025: The reggae community has been left in shock and sadness at the passing of Cocoa Tea, the legendary Jamaican born singer known for the top hit, “Barack Obama, and his smooth vocals. Fans and friends have flooded social media, paying tribute to the man whose music transcended generations and borders.

FLASHBACK-Jamaican reggae singer Cocoa Tea performing at Reggae Festival, Randall’s Island, New York, July 1997. (Photo by David Corio/Redferns)

Cocoa Tea, born Calvin Scott on September 3, 1959, in Rocky Point, Clarendon, Jamaica, was one of reggae and dancehall’s most beloved voices. His career began in Kingston’s sound system scene in the early 1980s, where he made a name for himself before his big break with famed producer Henry ‘Junjo’ Lawes as part of the Volcano Sounds movement. Over the years, he collaborated with top producers such as King Jammy, Gussie Clarke, Phillip ‘Fatis’ Burrell, and Lawes, delivering classic hits like “She Loves Me Now,” “I Lost My Sonia,” “Rikers Island,” and “Good Life.”

A Legacy Remembered

FLASHBACK – Cocoa Tea visits the SiriusXM Studios on May 30, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Taylor Hill/Getty Images)

Cocoa Tea’s influence stretched far beyond music. In 2008, his tribute song “Barack Obama” celebrated the first Black U.S. president’s historic election, earning him a side gig performing at Obama’s inauguration.

Reggae label VP Records paid tribute, stating: “Rest In Power Cocoa Tea, a true Jamaican music icon whose music will continue to resonate with his fans and generations to come. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Irwine Clare Sr., OD, founder of Team Jamaica Bickle and Caribbean Immigrant Services, (CIS), remembered Cocoa Tea as a legend who generously supported TJB without hesitation.

“Cocoa Tea always supported Team Jamaica Bickle through his talent without hesitation and never asked for a dime in payment,” Clare shared. “I remember once he performed in Jamaica the night before and then got on ‘the iron bird’ as he called it, Caribbean Airlines, to perform at a TJB event at Brooklyn College the next day – without pay.”

Felicia Persaud, publisher of News Americas, reflected on her personal connection with the artist, having written a recommendation for Cocoa Tea’s successful U.S. Green Card application through Clare and CIS.

Jamaica’s Opposition Leader Mark Golding also honored Cocoa Tea’s legacy, stating: “Jamaica has lost another musical legend. Cocoa Tea’s smooth vocals and timeless reggae hits have left an indelible mark on our culture and the global music scene. His artistry, talent, and message of love and unity will live on forever. Jamaica’s musical history is richer for his unmistakable voice and classic reggae anthems. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, fans, and the wider musical fraternity. May his soul rest in peace.”

Daughter Remembers His Strength

Cocoa Tea’s daughter, Rashaine Scott, confirmed his passing, revealing he died at 4 AM in a Florida hospital.

“He used to go into the Bible and read us the Ten Commandments, and he always said God made Adam and Eve. He also encouraged us to be independent, get an education, and to better our lives. I’m sorry I didn’t get to see him before he passed away,” she said.

She described her father as a fighter and a proud, private man who never gave up.

“He was a fighter, and he fought till the end. He was a strong-willed person, always thinking of the best, and he was also private.”

Final Days & Cause of Death

Cocoa Tea had been hospitalized for several months, battling an illness. While the official cause of death has not been confirmed, reports suggest he succumbed to a cardiac arrest.

His music, influence, and generosity will continue to inspire generations.

Beenie Man Set For First U.S. Performance In 13 Years At Jazz in the Gardens

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 7, 2024: Jamaican dancehall icon Beenie Man is set to make a triumphant return to the U.S. stage for the first time in 13 years as he joins the star-studded lineup at the Jazz in the Gardens music festival this weekend.

The highly anticipated event, now in its 18th year, will fill the air with smooth jazz, island vibes, and R&B classics at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. Recognized as one of the largest Black music festivals in the U.S., Jazz in the Gardens continues to showcase A-list talent while celebrating local artists, food vendors, and cultural experiences.

FLASHBACK – Beenie Man performing at the MOBO Awards 2022 at OVO Arena Wembley on November 30, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Joseph Okpako/WireImage)

“Most music festivals fizzle out, but Jazz in the Gardens continues to grow,” said Miami Gardens Mayor Rodney Harris.

Beenie Man’s Long-Awaited U.S. Return

Beenie Man, known as the “King of Dancehall,” last performed in the U.S. over a decade ago and is ready to bring his signature high-energy stage presence to Miami Gardens on Sunday, March 9th.

“Dancehall music has been my whole entire life,” he told Local 10’s Alexis Frazier. “My journey through music is to work hard in the studio and even harder on stage.”

The Grammy-winning Jamaican superstar will share the stage with an impressive roster of performers, including Caribbean roots Doug E Fresh and Fat Joe, as well as New Edition, Toni Braxton, Jah Rule and Remy Ma, making this year’s festival a must-attend event for music lovers across genres. On

A Festival with Cultural and Economic Impact

Jazz in the Gardens has grown from a small parking lot gathering into a premier music destination, attracting thousands of fans from across the U.S. and the Caribbean.

“You’re going to have people from the Bahamas, Chicago, Los Angeles flocking to Miami Gardens,” said Harris. “They’re going to utilize the hotels, the restaurants, and other entertainment and hospitality venues.”

In addition to providing world-class entertainment, the festival serves as an economic driver for Miami Gardens, generating millions in revenue and creating thousands of jobs. A portion of the proceeds also supports local churches, schools, and nonprofit organizations.

Jazz in the Gardens has long been a platform for South Florida talent, honoring legends like the late Betty Wright while continuing to highlight emerging artists.

“Like Pretty Porcelain is going to be a part of it, Uncle Luke is a legend and he’s going to be a part of this,” Harris added. “We try to capture as many local artists as we possibly can.”

While festival events are already underway, the main concerts kick off tomorrow, Saturday, March 8th with performances from Haitian immigrant Wyclef Jean, YG Marley, Jamaican roots Busta Rhymes and Lauryn Hill among others.

For more information on the festival, click here.

New Caribbean Music Releases: Carlene Davis Drops Gospel Album, Steel Pulse & Protoje Unveil Fresh Tracks

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 7, 2024: This week is an exciting one for Caribbean music lovers, with the release of new reggae and gospel projects from some of the region’s most iconic artists. From Carlene Davis’ faith-filled album to Steel Pulse’s reggae tribute to The Police and Protoje’s latest anthem, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Carlene Davis Drops 13th Gospel Album, Songs of Zion

Jamaican gospel and reggae trailblazer Carlene Davis has released her 13th gospel album and 23rd overall, Songs of Zion, on February 28 via VPAL Music and Glory Music. The album blends roots reggae, gospel, and Nyahbinghi, reflecting Davis’ Jamaican heritage while delivering uplifting messages of faith and hope.

Co-produced with her husband, Tommy Cowan, the album features some of Jamaica’s most talented musicians, including Dean Fraser, Dave Green, Dale Brown, Othneil Lewis, and Kenroy “Shortman” Mullings. The first single, “Rapha”, has already been gaining international attention.

Davis, who was honored with Jamaica’s Order of Distinction in 2010, is one of the most significant female Jamaican artists, with a career spanning decades and including hits like “Dial My Number.” Songs of Zion is part of a three-album release by Glory Music, which also includes Now (The Spoken Word) by Pastor Sara Cowan and Reggae Sax (Gospel Edition) by Verlando Small.

The album is available on all streaming platforms and will be featured on Glory Music’s upcoming tour.

Steel Pulse & Clive Hunt Release Reggae Cover of So Lonely

Legendary British reggae band Steel Pulse has teamed up with renowned producer Clive Hunt for a reggae rendition of The Police’s hit song “So Lonely”. The track is the fifth and final single from the upcoming album Fields of Gold: A Reggae Tribute to Sting, which drops March 14 via Ineffable Records.

The album is a star-studded reggae tribute featuring performances from Third World, Maxi Priest, The Skatalites, J Boog, Big Youth, Kumar, Groundation, and more. Hunt, who has worked with icons like Jimmy Cliff, Peter Tosh, Beres Hammond, and Stevie Wonder, brings his signature production style to this unique project.

Stream “So Lonely” now: https://ineffable.to/solonely

Protoje Drops New Single BIG 45

Reggae heavyweight Protoje is back with a fresh new anthem, “BIG 45”, produced by The Indiggnation and Winta James – the masterminds behind his hits “Who Knows” and “Switch It Up” (featuring Koffee).

Blending hip-hop, soul, jazz, reggae, and dancehall, Protoje continues to push the genre’s boundaries. The Grammy-nominated artist has been featured in Rolling Stone, THE FADER, and Vogue Magazine and has performed on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert series.

Fresh off a tour in Ethiopia, Protoje has upcoming performances in Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Portugal, Germany, Sweden, Netherlands, France, and the U.S.

Watch the official video for “BIG 45”

With these new releases, Caribbean music continues to make waves across the globe, offering fans an exciting mix of reggae, gospel, and cultural tributes. Be sure to check out these new tracks and support the artists keeping the region’s rich musical legacy alive!

Beres Hammond, Shaggy, Sean Paul Deliver Historic Performance At UBS Arena

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Feb. 19, 2024: In a night that blended musical excellence with cultural celebration, reggae and dancehall legends Beres Hammond, Shaggy, and Sean Paul united for the first time on stage at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, NY, on February 14. The Rock Away concert, produced by Jammins Events, Inc., brought thousands of fans together, many dressed in red, creating an electrifying atmosphere that paid tribute to the Caribbean community’s rich musical heritage.

Shaggy, Beres Hammond, & Sean Paul Make History at UBS Arena with Electrifying Performance

The night kicked off with a captivating performance from Shuga, whose soulful vocals and smooth delivery set the tone. She mesmerized the crowd with hits like “Love Doctor” and a flawless rendition of “No No No.”

Sean Paul then took the stage, igniting the crowd with his signature high-energy set. From “Get Busy” to “Temperature,” he kept fans on their feet, delivering hit after hit alongside his dynamic dancers.

Next, Shaggy commanded the stage, his unmistakable voice and charisma filling the arena. The crowd sang along to every word of “It Wasn’t Me,” “Angel,” and “Boombastic.” Toward the end of his set, he welcomed Sean Paul back for a performance of their hit “Go Down Deh,” sending energy levels soaring.

Closing out the night, Beres Hammond, dressed in all white, delivered a soul-stirring performance. With his full band behind him, he serenaded the audience with classics like “Rockaway” and “Can’t Stop A Man,” providing the perfect balance to the high-energy dancehall moments earlier in the show. As the concert neared its end, Shaggy and Sean Paul returned to the stage, standing alongside Beres Hammond for a powerful finale—a historic moment uniting three of reggae and dancehall’s greatest icons.

Beyond the unforgettable performances, the event carried a meaningful cause. A portion of the proceeds will support the American Foundation for the University of the West Indies (AFUWI), providing scholarships for students at the University of the West Indies, ensuring that the night’s impact extends beyond the stage and into the future of Caribbean education.

See some of the performance HERE

The Wailers For St. Maarten Heineken Regatta

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 19, 2025: The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is set to celebrate its 45th anniversary in grand style, blending world-class sailing with an electrifying entertainment lineup featuring reggae legends The Wailers.

The Wailers

As part of the milestone event, The Wailers will headline the final night of the regatta on Sunday, March 9, 2025, delivering an unforgettable performance to close out four days of thrilling races and high-energy festivities. The band’s set will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic Natural Mystic album, featuring hits like Natural Mystic, Positive Vibration, and Roots, Rock, Reggae, alongside new music from their latest album Evolution.

“We couldn’t think of a better way to mark 45 years of ‘Serious Fun!’ than with the legendary sounds of The Wailers,” said Cary Byerley, Regatta Chair. “Their timeless music and uplifting energy perfectly capture the spirit of the Regatta, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to St. Maarten.”

The regatta, running from March 6-9, 2025, will offer a unique mix of top-tier yacht racing and vibrant island entertainment. Daily prize-giving ceremonies will kick off at 6 PM at the Port de Plaisance Regatta Village, followed by performances from regional stars like Tamillia, King James, Orange Grove, Trilla-G, and Alison Hinds. The four-day event is free and open to the public, inviting visitors to enjoy the best of sailing by day and legendary parties by night.

Beyond the music, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta remains one of the premier sailing events in the Caribbean, with over 100 boats competing in various classes, including dueling 76-ft Maxi race boats, a fleet of over 20 Sunsail bareboats, and the high-performance Diam 24s.

For 45 years, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta has been more than just a sailing competition – it’s a celebration of culture, music, and the vibrant spirit of the island. With The Wailers headlining the grand finale, this year’s event promises to be one for the history books.

For more information and bookings, visit www.heinekenregatta.com.

Shenseea Wins MOBO Award As Spice, Vybz Kartel Perform

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 19, 2025: Shenseea and Vybz Kartel took center stage at the 2025 MOBO Awards, with Shenseea securing her second Best Caribbean Music Act award and Vybz Kartel making a surprise appearance to accept the MOBO Impact Award in person.

The awards ceremony, held in Newcastle, UK, saw Shenseea triumph over Skillibeng, Popcaan, Spice, YG Marley, and last year’s winner Valiant in the Caribbean music category. This marks her second win, following her 2021 victory.

However, the highlight of the evening was the moment dancehall legend Vybz Kartel appeared on stage to accept his MOBO Impact Award, accompanied by his son, Likkle Vybz, and fiancée, Sidem. The award was presented by dancehall queen Spice, who also made her MOBO Awards debut with a high-energy performance of her hit “So Mi Like It.”

Vybz Kartel performs during the MOBO Awards 2025 at the Utilita Arena on February 18, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Joseph Okpako/WireImage)

MOBO Founder & CEO Kanya King CBE praised Kartel’s influence, stating, “Vybz Kartel’s impact on music is immeasurable. His influence extends beyond the world of dancehall, in which he is a musical giant.”

Kartel also did a short performance.

The night ended with Spice’s electrifying performance, which set the stage for Vybz Kartel’s 90-second medley, rocking the audience with his signature sound. It was her first MOBO performance.

See it here

Founded in 1996, the MOBO Awards celebrate Black-origin music across genres including Hip Hop, Grime, R&B, Reggae, Jazz, Gospel, and Afrobeats. Over the years, MOBO has played a key role in recognizing and supporting exceptional talent, both in the UK and internationally.

Caribbean Immigrant And Biggie Smalls Mother Dead At 78

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News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. Feb. 21, 2025: Voletta Wallace, the Caribbean immigrant and Jamaican born mother of the late rap icon The Notorious B.I.G., has passed away at the age of 78. Wallace, who was in hospice care at her home in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, died of natural causes, according to the Monroe County Coroner’s Office.

Jamaican immigrant Voletta Wallace speaks during The BIGGIE Estate Hosts An Empire State Building Lighting Ceremony at The Empire State Building on May 20, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Born in Trelawney, Jamaica, the hometown also of Olympian Usain St. Leo Bolt, Wallace was a devoted mother who played a central role in shaping the life of her son, Christopher Wallace, known later to the world as Biggie Smalls. A former pre-school teacher, she raised him as a single parent in Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood, keeping a close watch on him even as he pursued his passion for music. Biggie referenced his mother in many of his songs, including the 1994 classic ‘Juicy‘ and ‘Things Done Changed.’

A Legacy of Strength and Dedication

Following Biggie’s tragic murder in 1997, Wallace became the guardian of his legacy, overseeing his estate and ensuring that his impact on music and culture remained alive. Just six months after his passing, she took the stage at the MTV Video Music Awards, accepting his award for Best Rap Video with grace and resilience. With her voice briefly breaking, she honored her son’s roots: “If my son was here tonight, the first thing he would have done is say… big up to Brooklyn.”

Jamaican immigrant Voletta Wallace attends the art installation part of celebration for the 25th anniversary of The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Ready to Die” Album presented by Optimo on September 13, 2019 in Brooklyn borough of New York CIty. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

Determined to share Biggie’s story, she authored the 2005 memoir, ‘Biggie: Voletta Wallace Remembers Her Son, Christopher Wallace, aka Notorious B.I.G.,’ where she reflected on the immense love people still had for him. “That cannot take my pain away… He was my baby. I am a mother and I will always be a mother,” she said in an emotional NPR interview.

In 2009, she served as a producer for the biopic ‘Notorious,’ where Angela Bassett portrayed her. Wallace frequently visited the set and admitted the experience was deeply emotional. “It made me angry, made me sad. I learned a lot about my son – a lot that I never knew. But I still love him because he was from here,” she said, placing a hand over her heart.

Honoring Biggie’s Legacy

Wallace remained active in celebrating her son’s contributions to hip-hop. In 2022, she joined Biggie’s children, Lil’ Kim, and Lil’ Cease to light up the Empire State Building in red and white in honor of what would have been his 50th birthday. The tribute was part of a series of commemorations, including a MetroCard featuring Biggie’s image and an orchestral tribute at Lincoln Center.

Tributes Pour In

Congressman and Democratic House Minority Leader, Hakeem Jeffries, who represents Biggie’s home borough of Brooklyn, paid tribute to Wallace, calling her an “intelligent, strong, and dignified Queen Mother who raised a legend.”

“We mourn her loss, but celebrate her life and take comfort from the fact that she is now reunited with her beloved Notorious B.I.G. in heaven. May she forever rest in peace,” he said.

Voletta Wallace’s unwavering love and dedication to her son ensured that his legacy endured long after his passing. Now, she rests alongside him, forever remembered as the matriarch of one of hip-hop’s greatest icons.