On March 9, 1997, devastating news shook the hip hop world to its foundations.
It was on that day that the world learned of the death of Notorious B.I.G. – real name Christopher Wallace – a casualty in the East Coast-West Coast hip hop feuds of the "90s and a loss that"s still keenly felt by music fans to this day.
Astonishingly, Biggie"s murder remains unsolved and allegations of police corruption and conspiracy theories are still bandied about on social media.
But while the circumstances of his death remain a mystery, there"s no question that despite his short life, Biggie still looms large.
Check out some of the most touching tributes to the iconic rapper in the gallery below:
1. Diddy
Were it not for Biggie, the world never would have been introduced to Sean “Diddy” Combs. Today, the producer paid tribute.
2. Charles M. Blow
New York Times columnist Charles M. Blow grieves for the greatest.
3. Iron Sheik
4. Lin-Manuel Miranda
The Hamilton auteur says Biggie’s storytelling ability is unmatched.
5. Cash Cats
A lighthearted tribute, but we think Biggie would approve.
6. Faith Evans
Biggie’s widow paid tribute by posting this photo to Instagram.