Who is Big Freedia?
Big Freedia, whose birth name is Freddie Ross Jr., is a prominent American rapper and performer renowned for her contributions to the New Orleans style of hip hop known as bounce music. Her influence in popularizing this genre, previously niche since its emergence in the early 1990s, has been widely acknowledged.
Big Freedia’s age and birthday
Born on January 28, 1978, in New Orleans, Louisiana, as Freddie Ross Jr., Big Freedia’s zodiac sign is Aquarius.
Big Freedia’s height and weight
She stands at a height of 1.88m and weighs 73kg.
Big Freedia educational background
Freddie Ross Jr. had music woven into their life from an early age, learning piano and singing in their neighbourhood church choir, influenced by artists like Patti LaBelle, Sylvester, Michael Jackson, and Salt-N-Pepa. Their schooling at Walter L. Cohen High School further nurtured their musical talent as they performed in the choir and later became its director, discovering their ability to create and produce music. Overcoming initial stage fright, Freedia began performing on stage, and in 1998, their involvement with drag queen Katey Red’s bounce music performances marked a pivotal point, leading Freedia on a journey from backup dancer to an influential figure in New Orleans Bounce music, leaving a lasting impact on the music scene globally.
Big Freedia spouse and children
Freedia has been in a committed relationship with her boyfriend, Devon Hurst, since 2017, with the two getting engaged that same year after being together for over a decade. While Freedia typically keeps her personal life private, she occasionally shares glimpses of her relationship with Devon on social media, such as a Valentine’s Day post in 2021. Despite facing personal challenges and complexities, including being a parent to her daughter Tootie Tootz, Freedia’s influence in music and her status as an LGBTQ+ icon remain strong, resonating with audiences globally.
Big Freedia parents and siblings
Freedia hails from a family with a father, Freedia Ross, who worked as a businessman, and a mother, Vera Ross, who was a homemaker. Her siblings include a sister named Crystal Ross and a brother named Adam Ross.
Big Freedia career and music
Freddie Ross Jr., is a trailblazing American rapper celebrated for her contributions to the New Orleans bounce music genre, which emerged in the early 1990s with its lively beats and interactive lyrics. Her impact on the music scene is undeniable, as she is credited with bringing bounce music from underground obscurity to mainstream recognition. Notably, she received accolades such as Best Emerging Artist and Best Hip-Hop/Rap Artist at the “Best of the Beat Awards” in 2011, showcasing her rising prominence and influence within the industry. Additionally, her nomination for the 22nd GLAAD Media Awards underscores her role as a LGBTQ+ figure making strides in media representation.
Beyond her musical prowess, Big Freedia’s career has expanded into television with her reality show on the Fuse Channel, offering audiences a glimpse into her life both on tour and at home. Her autobiography, “God Save the Queen Diva!” released in 2015, further cemented her status as a multifaceted artist, sharing her journey and experiences with the world. Collaboratively, she has worked with a diverse range of artists, including industry giants like Beyoncé, Kesha, Lizzo, Drake, and more, contributing her unique style and energy to chart-topping hits that resonate with listeners globally.
On a personal level, Big Freedia’s identity as a gay artist who embraces her “feminine side” and identifies as gender nonconforming, fluid, and nonbinary, adds depth and authenticity to her artistry. Her unapologetic approach to self-expression and advocacy for LGBTQ+ visibility has further endeared her to fans, solidifying her as not just a musical icon but also a cultural figure breaking boundaries and inspiring audiences with her vibrant persona and impactful presence in the world of hip hop and beyond.
Big Freedia net worth and salary
Her net worth is $7.5 million, and she generates an annual salary of $2 million.