The wave is back. After 16 years behind bars, Harlem rapper Max B has finally been released from prison.
On Sunday (Nov. 9), the 47-year-old who was serving time for murder conspiracy and robbery was welcomed by family and friends outside the Northern State Prison in Newark, New Jersey including associate and frequent collaborator, French Montana.
Immediately after his release, Max B celebrated his newfound freedom with his first post-prison public appearance at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium for the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets game.
“I feel righteous. I’m feeling good, I’m grateful, I’m thankful. God is good,” Max Biggaveli told The People Gallery. He continued with some advice, “Listen, man, just be yourself. Get what you can afford… And wear what you wear. If it looks good on you, own it.”
In 2009, Max B, born Charly Wingate, was convicted of 9 of the 11 counts, including felony murder, for his alleged role in orchestrating a botched robbery that turned deadly at a New Jersey hotel in 2006. He was sentenced to 75 years. The following year, Max B was granted an appeal, but was denied in 2012. His convictions were vacated in 2016 and his sentenced was reduced to 20 years after agreeing to plead guilty to aggravated manslaughter.
During Max B’s incarceration, Max B released endless music and projects including his previous studio album, Negro Spirituals in 2021.