Posted by In this exclusive Rap Olympus Media interview, we sit down with BIG SUNNY to talk about his creative approach, early music, and what’s next on the horizon. From his unique sound to the mindset that drives his artistry, BIG SUNNY opens up about the journey that continues to shape his path in Hip-Hop.
For those not familiar with you yet, introduce yourself and let us know what you do.
Yurrr! The name is BIG SUNNY aka Tha Lion Of Philly aka Tha Coming Of Change aka The Greatest Out Tha Basement aka SUNDIATA. I was born & raised in PTOWN, commonly known as Philadelphia. I am a Hip-Hop artist and emcee.
I got started rapping like a lot of other rappers, battling during lunch in the 6th grade. You know, pen and pencil beat making. Started writing poetry in the 7th grade, which contributed to the foundation of my writing. The first time I professionally recorded something was in 2019.
How would you describe your musical approach and thought process when creating?
I would describe my musical approach as RAW. Point blank, I’m finna always speak with the beat. Whatever it makes me feel is how I will write. I’m RAW not just cause I say outta pocket lines, but because I’m fearless and say whatever the f*ck I want, regardless of how most people feel. I’ve always accidentally, rarely purposely, stood out from everyone else. Android Gang! I also have a great habit of accidentally writing inspirational or motivational lines. I can’t help it.
The “RAW TAPEZ: Volume 1” is a great introduction to your music. Was it an intentional project or a collection of your best work?
“RAW TAPEZ: Volume 1” was fully intentional and a pain in my neck. I always admired how rappers would show off their skills by hopping on beats belonging to other artists, like Young M.A. or DaBaby. Hella inspiring! I felt it would be a good introduction to my music, and listeners would appreciate hearing me over well-known beats. Just to show I can stand with these “mainstream artists” any day of the week! I want the world, not just the town. Then I can give the town, the world.
It took me at least a year to make that project. The writing was quick, but losing money and searching for studios made the recording process a little longer. Three tracks didn’t make it due to copyright issues, and three others just didn’t work out. All in all, I feel as though that mixtape will be a great part of my legacy one day. If I were already famous, it’d be considered a classic.
I can hear touches of some amazing artists in your music! Who inspires you the most and why?
I am inspired by a multitude of artist’s but I don’t try to sound like anyone. I just do what the beat says do, no DJ Clue. In my early years, I spent all of my time listening to old school Hip-Hop, from N.W.A. to Biggie Smalls to Eminem. My dad was always blasting Ne-Yo, Jay-Z, and DMX, plus some Gospel. So I got my rhythm from somewhere.
When I wasn’t in the church choir, I was in the stands smacking the tambourine on beat and everything! I remember people looking at me with a stunned expression. I couldn’t believe I had that much rhythm! Down the line, I got into more Trap artists like Future, DaBaby, Pop Smoke R.I.P., PNB Rock R.I.P., Kur, EST GEE, and Finesse2Tymes.
With 2025 coming to an end, what are your plans to finish off the year?
Before 2026, I plan on dropping two new songs and my first music video, which I am extremely excited about. I am dropping my first jawn, “Locked In,” on November 14th!!! This song is specifically for this point in my career, especially after several months of not dropping original music or dropping at all. I’m finally investing in myself and my dream to prove that I’m willing to give my all to do this. To show this is what I was born to do and would die before I’d ever give up on it.
I’m “Locked In” and the only option is to WIN! Whatever it takes. Change must and will come; you’ll either see it from me or Hip-Hop itself. Look at what’s taking place as we speak. CHANGE IZ INEVITABLE. I hope they want a tan, cuz they finna see more of Tha SUN!
Is there anything else you would like to share with the people before we wrap things up?
Just letting anyone know who’s lookin’ for the next one; congratulations, you are witnessing greatness in the making. Keep It RAW, 1Love!
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