The late 90s rap legend, Notorious B.I.G., will soon be a permanent fixture on the blockchain. Partnering with The Sandbox, an Ethereum-based metaverse platform, Biggie Smalls’ estate aims to create an exclusive virtual experience dedicated to the iconic rapper within the virtual realm.
Named ‘Breakin’ B.I.G.,’ this metaverse adventure, set in a Brooklyn-inspired landscape, brings Christopher Wallace back in a unique 2D arcade-style world. Collaborating with Warner Music Group and The Notorious B.I.G.’s estate, this experience allows players to engage with a non-playable avatar of B.I.G., embarking on quests mirroring the journey of an aspiring rap star, from community-building tasks to facing off against virtual rivals.
Elliot Osagie, Chief Strategy Officer of The Notorious B.I.G. Estate, expressed excitement about the project, highlighting Biggie’s embodiment of 90s style and predicting its resonance across generations, staying true to the rapper’s artistic vision and brand.
The collaboration also includes the launch of an exclusive NFT avatar collection and updates to Warner Music Group’s social hub in The Sandbox, enriching the digital environment for users.
Sebastien Borget, COO and Co-Founder of The Sandbox, anticipates players’ exploration of the vibrant Brooklyn setting, celebrating the collaboration as a unique arcade-inspired venture unlike any previous endeavors.
The Sandbox has a history of partnering with renowned brands like Gucci and McDonald’s, while Warner Music has actively incorporated blockchain into its operations, partnering with Polygon Labs and Ready Player Me for music initiatives. The move places Notorious B.I.G.’s digital likeness alongside other notable figures in The Sandbox, such as Elvis Presley, Snoop Dogg, and Paris Hilton.
Previously, Biggie’s estate released NFTs inspired by the rapper, along with plans for The Brook, a Biggie-themed metaverse world, and an NFT collection based on his iconic crown, which fetched $600,000 at Sotheby’s in 2020.
This collaboration, much like previous ventures, celebrates Notorious B.I.G.’s enduring influence, merging music and technology in an interactive platform that transcends generational boundaries, offering fans a fresh way to engage with the rapper’s everlasting legacy.