Big Topic went viral on social media in less than two weeks after posting a live performance of her no non-sense rap song, “Doing My Dance.” The Cleveland artist’s ascension to viral fame was the result of a collaboration with Lawaun Films, a budding independent production company in Ohio known for using the one mic concept at random locations in the streets to propel regional artists.
As with many of the Lawaun Films videos published on YouTube, the artists share the similar aesthetic of pure, raw talent based out of the hood. Big Topic embodied the same appeal, but it was her particular style of delivery and mesmerizing hard exterior that stood out from the rest.
“I ain’t one of your kids, go play with your friends,” Big Topic effortlessly rapped while sporting a slick, Avatar style ponytail that extended beyond her jean-covered knee caps. A choker chain dressed her neck, adorned with tough upper body tattoos only slightly hidden by a simple black tube top. A “prop” subtly placed on her hip the entire duration of the song also added to the grittiness of the performance.
By the time Big Topic opened her mouth, it was clear that the artist had no intention of blending in with the latest round of female rappers who are more concerned with their sex appeal than their lyrics and delivery. In an interview with The KingTif Network, she admitted that she was angry during the making of the song, something that viewers were able to sense as many of them admitted that they were terrified by Big Topic.
Still, the song took off. In less than one year, nearly one million people were introduced to the lyrically gifted artist through clips released across social media, one of the most popular being on YouTube Stories. From there, influencers created funny memes of “Doing My Dance” showing more support for Big Topic, who is reminiscent of the early versions of Eve and Foxy Brown, both artists with the reputation of being spitters. Big Topic matches the bravado of her male counterparts, all the while fueling each word with passion and ownership.
Watch Big Topic’s “Doing My Dance”
Her hardcore delivery further supported misconceptions about Big Topic being a real-life villain. Big Topic insists that she’s not the villain the commentators have painted her out to be in the comment sections. Instead, she is a hardworking mother of one trying to move her family out of the hood through her pursuits in the arts. However, she has endured the worst life has to offer, including almost being shot twice, overdosing on drugs in front of her child, and losing her car and job, simultaneously.
“This s– is deeper than just f– music,” Big Topic said in the interview. “Music is just the way I use my outlet.”
It’s a relief that Big Topic is adverse to capping. Although she is not the terrible street criminal vilifying a community, it’s about time that fans have the pleasantly entertaining experience of a new rap villain.
“Doing My Dance” can be found on Big Topic’s 6-track EP, Humble Revenge, released Jan. 15, 2023 on Apple Music.
