Brisbane's coolest New Year's Eve event, The Big Chill Festival is set to be bigger than ever when legendary rapper, Big Pooh takes the stage.
The Little Brother alum is riding a massive wave of success on the back of two album releases in 2015, as well as an upcoming Australian tour. Here, Big Pooh answers some questions about his music, tours and what the New Year may hold:
2015 has been a massive year for you, releasing two albums 'Words Paint Pictures' with Apollo Brown and 'Home Sweet Home' with Nottz. Why did you release two albums in the same year?
I originally signed my deal with Mello Music Group in 2013. It had been two years with no projects but I had been working the whole time. I wanted to give the people everything I had to thank them for being patient.
What were some of the challenges involved with producing two separate records in such a short time period?They were both conceptual in a way so I was able to separate the ideas easily. If I was just rapping to rap, then it would have been an issue.
Can you explain some of the stylistic and thematic differences between the albums?
The album with Apollo ('Words Paint Pictures') moved a lot slower, was darker in subject matter, heavier conceptual wise. I decided to use that album to speak on a lot of the social ills and injustices that was going on in America. The album with Nottz ('Home Sweet Home') moves a lot faster and is lighter in subject matter. This album focuses on the 'home' theme and provides plenty of nostalgia.
What are the key messages or ideals you like to convey with your music?
I like to speak for the people instead of speaking to them. I want them to know I experience things in my life just as they do. No matter how good you think someone has it, they are going through things just like you and may have a better or different way to handle those things than you do.
Having released two albums in twelve months, will you be taking a break from recording?
I actually finished recording this album in February. The album with Apollo was finished in 2014. I haven't really been recording since then outside of writing for other artists and the occasional guest verse. I'm almost ready to jump back in the studio.
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Are you looking forward to spending NYE in Brisbane playing The Big Chill Festival?
I am. This is my first time in Australia as well as my first time performing on New Year's Eve. I'm excited to accomplish two of my goals at one time. Thanks, Kel!!
Will you be checking out some of the Australian musical talent on show at Big Chill?
I definitely will. Before I retreat to my private space to mentally prepare for my set I want to see what Australia has to offer.
Being New Year's Eve, how do you plan on celebrating that night? Will you be making any resolutions?
I don't make resolutions. I just show my thanks for being allowed to see another year and prepare for the year ahead. One of my childhood friends will be with me. This will be the first New Year's Eve we have spent together since high school so we plan to get a little crazy.
What can fans expect from your Australian shows?
A lot of energy. I like to give people a lot while I'm on stage. I also go through about 20 plus songs.
Will there be any special guest appearances, perhaps from your Little Brother colleagues?
No guest appearances. I'm going to be a long way away from home.
How do you plan on spending your free time while over here (if you get any)?
I will have a couple days there after the show so I plan on just taking in the city, exploring a little bit.
What's the first thing that comes to mind when you hear 'Australia'?
Beautiful scenery.
If not on tour, how would you usually be spending this time of year?
I would usually be doing something quiet. I like to bring the new year in with family and friends doing something intimate.
Can you tell us your plans heading into 2016? What's next for Big Pooh?
In 2016 I plan on doing more touring to support these two projects as well as getting my management firm up and running.
Big Pooh plays The Big Chill Festival at Boundary Hotel and car park on New Year's Eve.
