On the Rise: Big Smitty
Big Smitty Prepares for the Spotlight with Debut Album
For years, Big Smitty has been a force in the Southern hip-hop scene, sharing the stage with legendary artists and contributing to classic records. As a longtime member of the Coughee Brothaz and a protégé of Scarface, Smitty’s contributions to the culture are undeniable. Now, he is preparing to step into the spotlight with his debut album, Private Jets and Presidential Suites. Determined to make his mark, Big Smitty spoke exclusively to Hip Hop Vibe about his journey, his influences, and his aspirations.
Building a Legacy
Big Smitty’s journey began decades ago, during hip-hop’s formative years. Inspired by legends like Kurtis Blow, Sugar Hill, and Run-DMC, Smitty transitioned from a basketball-focused upbringing to pursuing rap full-time in the early 1990s. Reflecting on his career, Smitty shared, “I came up with the guys who were emerging in the 1990s. Right now, I got a big project with Rappin’ 4-Tay. For those who don’t know, I came up with Scarface of the Geto Boyz. We don’t get old; we get better.”
Having made his major breakthrough in 1995 with contributions to albums by the Face Mob and the Geto Boyz, Big Smitty’s career has been one of resilience and determination. Despite setbacks, including time away from the industry, he remains focused on his goal: leaving a lasting legacy in hip-hop. As a result, Smitty’s getting to work on his solo debut. So, he’s on tour with Devin The Dude, building his exposure.
The Vision Behind Private Jets and Presidential Suites
Big Smitty’s debut album title, Private Jets and Presidential Suites, is more than just a catchy phrase. It’s a reflection of his aspirations and lifestyle. “Over the years, many rappers have had the chance to live that life. Since day one, that is how I’ve been rolling,” he explained. “When I go to the hotel and get on the elevator, I don’t want to go to one of the floors, I want to hit the ‘PS’ button.”
The album represents Smitty’s determination to deliver top-tier music. “I want to give them the best music, no disrespect to the others saying they are the best. Right now, I am giving them my best, so I deserve the best, that’s my mentality,” he emphasized.
Reflections on the Coughee Brothaz
Big Smitty’s association with the Coughee Brothaz has been a cornerstone of his career. Joining the group in 2008 after his release from prison, Smitty reunited with Devin the Dude and officially became part of the clique. “Before I went to prison, we discussed the idea of creating the Coughee Brothaz,” he said. “I was always associated with the Odd Squad, but we did not officially create our group, the Coughee Brothaz, until then.”
The Coughee Brothaz, originally founded by the Odd Squad, serves as a platform for showcasing diverse talents. With roots dating back to 1989, the group has released influential albums like Waitin’ Our Turn in 2007 and Fresh Brew, which dropped this year, in April 2011. Therefore, solidifying their place in Southern hip-hop.
Relationships with Legends
Big Smitty’s connections to iconic artists like Scarface, UGK, and Pimp C have shaped his career and outlook on life. Recalling his first encounter with UGK, Smitty said, “Through my man Big Mike, I met Bun B first, and me and Bun became friends. Mike invited UGK over to my house, and we hit it off. We had a good time and became good friends. Real recognized real.”
Pimp C’s influence left a lasting impression on Smitty. “Pimp C shouted me out on his song, ‘I Left it Wet For You,’” he reminisced. “I had just met Pimp C the day before, and when he shouted you out, he fooled with you.”
Smitty’s admiration for Pimp C extends to his legacy. “I put Pimp up there with Tupac and artists of that nature,” he said. “Pimp always spoke his mind, even if it hurt feelings. He recorded enough music for everyone to hold on to a piece of his legacy.”
Overcoming Challenges
Smitty’s journey has not been without obstacles. Reflecting on his time away from the industry, he noted, “Due to a few bad decisions, I was out of the game. But this year makes it twenty years.” His resilience and determination to bounce back are evident in his work with the Coughee Brothaz and his upcoming album.
Through it all, Smitty has remained focused on his goal: inspiring others. “I want to leave the legacy of an overcomer. Any artist, male or female, will know as long as they do not give up and they keep their mind and soul in the right place, they can achieve it,” he said.
Looking Ahead
With Private Jets and Presidential Suites on the horizon, Big Smitty is poised to make a significant impact. His story is one of perseverance, talent, and an unwavering commitment to his craft. As he continues to collaborate with hip-hop legends and pave his path, Smitty’s legacy is destined to grow.
When asked about his ultimate goal, Smitty’s answer was clear: “I won’t stop until all my people are household names.”
Conclusion
As Big Smitty prepares to release Private Jets and Presidential Suites, he embodies the resilience and drive that define Southern hip-hop. From his early days in the industry to his collaborations with legends like UGK and Scarface, Smitty’s journey has been one of growth and determination. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to one’s vision.
Looking ahead, Smitty aims to elevate not just his own career but also those of his peers. With a commitment to creating impactful music and inspiring others, he is well on his way to cementing his place in hip-hop history. As he puts it, “I won’t stop until all my people are household names.”
So, with that being the case, Big Smitty, aka Smit D, is putting in the work now. He’s starting with his own music, but he’s working to put his whole team in position.