Ms. Wallace, Notorious B.I.G.’s mother, never knew how famous her son actually was, according to Hip Hop magazine The Source.

On May 21, 2012, the rap icon would have turned 40. The rapper met his untimely fate almost 15 years ago when he was gunned down in Los Angeles at the age of 24.

Ms. Wallace spoke with The Source in honor of son’s b-day and revealed she shocked by her son’s fame.

When he passed away, I never knew he was so famous,” she said. “I never knew he was so well liked, maybe because I never listened to the music. But I guess over the years, I love it more and appreciate the art more.”

Christopher Wallace, who performed under the monikers “The Notorious B.I.G., Biggie Smalls, Big and Big Poppa,” is arguably one of the greatest lyricists to ever grab a mic. He debuted album “Ready to Die” in 1994 to stellar reviews.

Ms. Wallace is proud of her son’s accomplishments.

“For someone to think of my son, his music, his legacy, and can smile about it, I’m happy for them. If it makes you happy, then I’m happy,” she said.