Big Freedia in Chicago

Big Freedia is an American rapper and performer from New Orleans who helped bring the city’s fast, dance-driven bounce music to a wider audience. Signature tracks include “Excuse,” “Rent” and “Explode,” while key releases include Just Be Free and Central City. Her voice appears on Beyoncé’s “Formation,” and “Break My Soul” samples “Explode.” In 2013, Big Freedia joined The Postal Service for dates on the group’s reunion tour. She followed those appearances with club shows behind Just Be Free, then opened dates on Kesha’s Rainbow Tour in 2017. Big Freedia performs over bounce tracks accompanied by dancers, and choreographed movement is central to the set. Festival appearances have included Bonnaroo and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.