Big Freedia: The New Orleans Bounce Pioneer Who Changed Music Forever

When you think of New Orleans culture—its energy, rhythm, spirit, and unapologetic authenticity—there is one name that stands out as a global ambassador: Big Freedia, the undisputed Queen of Bounce. Born Freddie Ross Jr. in the Third Ward, Big Freedia transformed a once-underground local sound into an international movement, reshaping music, dance, and pop culture along the way.

From Church Choirs to Bounce Royalty

Long before the world knew her name, Big Freedia was a child singing in church choirs, influenced by the gospel harmonies of Sunday mornings and the lively grooves of disco and hip-hop. In the late 90s, her life took a defining turn when she met New Orleans bounce pioneer Katey Red. What began as a role as a backup dancer and singer quickly evolved into the birth of Big Freedia, a powerhouse figure destined to elevate bounce far beyond city limits.

Freedia dropped her first CD, Queen Diva, in 2003, but her career exploded after a breakout performance at the 2009 Voodoo Festival, where thousands were introduced to the energy of bounce for the first time.

Rising to Stardom: When the World Met Big Freedia

Big Freedia’s popularity exploded in the 2010s thanks to her hit reality show Big Freedia: Queen of Bounce on Fuse TV. For six seasons, viewers got a raw look into her life, her artistry, and the tight-knit New Orleans community that shaped her. The show didn’t just entertain—it exposed the world to bounce music, twerking culture, and Freedia’s unshakeable resilience.

Her musical impact grew just as rapidly. Freedia released iconic tracks like “Gin in My System” and “Azz Everywhere!”, cementing her as one of the most influential voices in the bounce genre. Collaborations with household names brought her into the global spotlight:

• Drake tapped her for the chart-topping “Nice for What.”

• Beyoncé sampled her voice in the Grammy-winning “Formation” and the #1 hit “Break My Soul.”

• Lizzo, Kesha, New Kids on the Block, and Boyz II Men all embraced her signature sound.

In 2014, Big Freedia even broke a Guinness World Record when she led the largest twerking event ever recorded.

The Queen of Bounce Becomes a Cultural Icon

Freedia didn’t just popularize bounce music—she reshaped culture. Her high-energy performances and signature call-and-response style introduced audiences around the world to the sound of New Orleans. At the same time, she became a symbol for LGBTQ+ visibility, identifying as gender-nonconforming and fluid, and openly using she/he/they pronouns.

Her influence extends beyond music. Freedia has:

• Published an autobiography, God Save the Queen Diva!

• Launched a new series in 2023, Big Freedia Means Business

• Served as a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and New Orleans resilience

• Expanded into entrepreneurship, including interior design and local community initiatives

A Legacy That Will Live Forever

Big Freedia’s story is one of courage, reinvention, and cultural pride. From the streets of the Third Ward to collaborating with the biggest artists in the world, she has proven that bounce is more than a genre—it’s a movement, a lifestyle, and a celebration of self-expression.

She didn’t just change music.She changed the world.

To learn more about Big Freedia’s journey, you can explore her autobiography, check out her TV series, or follow her ongoing work across music and culture.