Big Freedia

Big Freedia, known as the Queen Diva, is recognized as a leading ambassador of New Orleans bounce music, a high-energy, call-and-response form of hip-hop characterized by rapid-fire chants, heavy bass, and dance-driven rhythms. Born Freddie Ross Jr. in the Third Ward, Freedia played a pivotal role in transforming bounce from a local underground sound into an international movement, influencing music, dance, and pop culture. Initially involved with church choirs in New Orleans, Freedia's early exposure to gospel music contributed to a broad musical interest. Drawn to the genre's hip-hop beats and house music vocals, Freedia released the bounce single "An Ha, Oh Yeah" and the album "Queen Diva." Following Hurricane Katrina, Freedia relocated to Texas, further spreading the bounce sound.

Freedia's career includes appearances on HBO's "Tremé," the release of "Big Freedia Hitz: Volume 1" featuring the track "Azz Everywhere," a record deal with Scion A/V, and a national television appearance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" Freedia's journey in the music industry was documented over six seasons on the reality show "Big Freedia Bounces Back" on Fuse TV. Freedia has received recognition at the Best of the Beat Awards and nominations for the GLAAD Media Awards. During promotions for the reality show, Freedia led a large group in New York City, setting a Guinness World Record for a dance event.

Freedia has been featured on recordings and videos with artists such as Drake, Lizzo, Kesha, RuPaul, and Beyoncé. Notably, Freedia contributed to Beyoncé's Grammy Award-winning single "Break My Soul," appeared on "Formation," and on Drake's "Nice For What." Freedia also covered "Judas" on Lady Gaga's "Born This Way: The Tenth Anniversary" album. Known for high-energy, body-positive, and LGBTQ-empowering anthems, Freedia's debut "Just Be Free" includes tracks such as "Booty-Whop" and "Explode." The follow-up album, "Central City," showcases a more pop-oriented sound.

As an author, Freedia released the memoir "Big Freedia: God Save the Queen Diva!," which details significant moments in her life and career. Freedia also starred in the documentary "Freedia Got a Gun," addressing gun violence and its impact, inspired by the loss of her brother Adam Ross. The documentary received the Award for Freedom at Outfest Film Festival, which highlights LGBTQ films. Freedia is an advocate for racial and gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights, maintaining a strong connection to New Orleans and contributing to the visibility of LGBTQ+ artists in hip-hop and pop music.