Primary Wave has confirmed that it acquired a 50% interest in the catalog of the late rapper Notorious B.I.G. The company announced the deal on its website and referred readers to a Wall Street Journal report for further details.
According to the Journal, Primary Wave valued Biggie’s body of work at over $200 million. This figure is lower than earlier reports, which suggested the catalog could be worth up to $300 million. The deal includes rights to Biggie’s recordings, publishing, and name-image-likeness (NIL).
Primary Wave did not provide specifics about upcoming projects but hinted at plans that may involve a Broadway production and immersive music experiences. These efforts could also include a digital avatar of the rapper. Previous licensing attempts using a Biggie avatar faced criticism, but Primary Wave’s experience may lead to improved results.
Company CEO Larry Mestel stated that the strategy going forward will focus on doing “less but larger” with the Biggie catalog. Biggie’s mother, who had managed much of his legacy, approved the agreement shortly before her death last month at age 78.
Some have raised concerns about the sale, questioning the estate’s handling of the deal and potential impacts on Biggie’s family. These concerns echo past disputes involving other artist estates, including those of James Brown and Michael Jackson.
T’yanna Wallace, Biggie’s daughter, identifies as the owner and CEO of Notoriouss Clothing and the Brooklyn-based Biggie Experience museum.
