Who Is Big Pun? Age, Biography and Wiki
Big Pun, born Christopher Lee Rios on November 10, 1971, was a significant figure in the hip-hop genre until his untimely passing in 2000. Renowned for his extraordinary lyrical skills and larger-than-life personality, Pun was a pioneer in Latin hip-hop, blending his Puerto Rican heritage with the urban vibes of the New York City rap scene. While Big Pun is no longer with us, his influence continues to resonate in the music world, inspiring countless artists and fans alike.
| Occupation | Songwriter |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 10, 1971 |
| Age | 53 Years |
| Birth Place | The Bronx, New York City, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Big Pun's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Big Pun was known for his impressive stature and presence. During his lifetime, he stood approximately 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) tall and had a weight that fluctuated but was reported around 400 lbs (181 kg) at his heaviest. His larger-than-life persona was complemented by his unique style and physicality, making him a memorable figure in the industry.
Christopher Lee Rios (November 10, 1971 – February 7, 2000), better known by his stage name Big Pun (short for Big Punisher), was an American rapper. Emerging from the underground hip hop scene in the Bronx, he came to prominence upon discovery by fellow Bronx rapper Fat Joe, alongside Cuban Link and Triple Seis, and thereafter guest appeared on his 1995 album Jealous One's Envy.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status (Boyfriend/Girlfriend/Husband/Wife)
Big Pun was married to his high school sweetheart, Liza Rios, and together they had three children. The couple faced the challenges of fame and family life, but their bond remained strong until Pun's passing in 2000. While he is no longer present to engage in romantic relationships, his legacy continues to be honored by his family, who keep his memory alive through various tributes and events.
He moved out of his mother's house at age 15 and was homeless for a period of time in the late 1980s. Later, he received a large settlement from the city stemming from an incident in 1976, where Rios broke his leg while playing in a park. Using his settlement money, Rios married his high school sweetheart, Liza, and the two moved into a house together.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death in 2000, Big Pun's net worth was estimated to be around $3 million. Today, in 2025, his estate continues to generate revenue through sales of his music, posthumous releases, and merchandise. While specific figures can fluctuate, it’s widely believed that his net worth has only increased as his music remains popular among fans and new listeners.
Career, Business and Investments
Big Pun's career began gaining traction in the late 1990s with his debut album, "Capital Punishment," which was met with critical acclaim and commercial success. His contributions to hip-hop, including hits like "Still Not a Player" and "It's So Hard," showcased his unique flow and lyrical prowess. Beyond music, Pun’s influence expanded into other ventures, although his primary focus remained on rap. His impact on the industry is celebrated through dedications and posthumous releases that keep his artistry alive.
In 1997, Big Pun began recording songs for his debut album Capital Punishment. In 1997, producer Knobody's production partner Sean C took advantage of his new role as A&R at Loud Records to play Knobody's tracks to Big Pun. Suitably impressed, the rapper hired Knobody to remix "I'm not a Player".
The remixed song, featuring Joe and titled "Still not a Player", became Big Pun's first major mainstream hit and major breakthrough for Knobody. The full-length debut Capital Punishment followed in 1998, and became the first album by a solo Hispanic rapper to go platinum, peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard 200.
Capital Punishment was also nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album.
Social Network
Though Big Pun has moved on, his legacy endures through various social media platforms where fans celebrate his life and music. While Pun himself did not engage in social media (as it did not exist during his lifetime), his family and estate maintain a presence on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Fans often share memories, music, and tributes that honor his contributions to the hip-hop genre.
Big Pun's second album, Yeeeah Baby, completed after his death, was released in April 2000. It peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard charts and earned gold record status within three months of its release. A posthumous compilation album, Endangered Species, was released in April 2001.
Endangered Species collected some of Pun's greatest hits, previously unreleased material, numerous guest appearances, and remixed "greatest verses." As with his other albums, it also peaked in the top ten of the Billboard 200, reaching No. 7, but didn't sell as much as the previous Big Pun albums had.
He collaborated with Fat Joe on Duets: The Final Chapter, an album of tracks featuring The Notorious B.I.G., also deceased. The track "Get Your Grind On" begins with a Big Pun radio interview in which he said he would perform a duet with Biggie at the gates of heaven.
Pun was also featured on a track from the revived Terror Squad's second album, True Story, on the track "Bring 'Em Back" with Big L, another deceased rapper.
Education
Big Pun's formal education took a back seat as he was more focused on his passion for music from an early age. Growing up in the Bronx, he faced various challenges, yet these experiences shaped his lyrics and artistry. Though he didn’t pursue higher education, his street smarts and life experiences provided him with a unique perspective that resonated through his music.
