BigXthaPlug welcomed Billboard to Los Angeles for a laid-back meal at Max City BBQ, diving into smoked links while ribs arrived as a surprise treat. Between bites, the Dallas rapper opened up about how a challenging stint in jail became the catalyst for his career.
At just 20 years old, BigXthaPlug was serving time for a probation violation when his son, Amar, celebrated his first birthday.
“It took a toll on me,” BigX explained. “And made me very emotional. So they [jail officials] had to confine me by myself. And in that confinement, I felt like I was losing myself mentally.”
Looking for ways to cope, he asked other inmates how they stayed sane. Writing emerged as an outlet, turning rap lyrics scribbled on medical sheets—since notebooks weren’t allowed—into the beginning of a career he hadn’t planned.
“I wasn’t planning to be a rapper,” he admitted. But after making a vow to Amar—“you’ll never not be with me ever again”—BigXthaPlug found his purpose: supporting his family while staying present in his children’s lives.
From Jail to Billboard Hits
That promise set the stage for a meteoric rise. Today, BigXthaPlug is behind hit singles like “Texas,” “Mmhmm,” and “The Largest”, along with a gold-certified album Amar (2023) and a platinum project Take Care (2024).
His third release, I Hope You’re Happy, drops this week through UnitedMasters. The album blends his Texas roots with country influences, featuring collaborations with Bailey Zimmerman, Jelly Roll, Shaboozey, Luke Combs, Ella Langley, and Ink, promising fans a fresh sound that reflects his life journey.
Fatherhood and Growth
Now raising two children, Amar and Leilani, BigXthaPlug has embraced fatherhood as a core inspiration for his music. He was recently recognized with the Innovator Award at Billboard’s Country Power Players, celebrating his impact on the genre and his genre-blending artistry.
“This new album reflects heartbreak, fatherhood, and growth,” he said. “But I also take time to enjoy being a dad and keep an eye on the coming football season.”
From writing rhymes on medical sheets in jail to dominating charts and redefining country-rap, BigXthaPlug’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and family-first motivation.
Why Fans Should Tune In
With I Hope You’re Happy, BigXthaPlug is not just dropping music—he’s telling his story, blending personal struggles with cultural roots and heartfelt collaborations. Fans can expect an album that’s emotional, authentic, and unapologetically Texas.
Are you ready for BigXthaPlug’s new album? Let us know your thoughts below and stay tuned for more exclusive updates!