Big K.R.I.T.

Justin Lewis Scott, better known as Big K.R.I.T., is a name that echoes with a distinct resonance in the rap and hip hop arenas. Born on a warm summer day in 1986, in Meridian, Mississippi, Scott’s journey from a Southern town to the towering heights of music royalty is a tale of grit, talent, and unwavering ambition. His stage name, an acronym for “King Remembered in Time,” isn’t merely a catchy handle; it’s a bold statement of his artistic vision and the enduring legacy he’s determined to craft.

Flashback to 2010, the music world got a jolt with the arrival of Big K.R.I.T. thanks to Sha Money XL of Def Jam Recordings. His explosive single “Country Shit,” especially the remix featuring Ludacris and Bun B, wasn’t just a chartbuster; it was a musical manifesto. It marked the arrival of a new titan in the rap game, one whose roots were deeply embedded in the rich soil of Southern hip hop.

But it wasn’t just his collaborations that etched his name in the annals of music. 2011 saw Scott basking in the Billboard Hot 100 limelight, courtesy of his feature on T.I.’s “I’m Flexin’.” His debut album, “Live from the Underground,” released in 2012, and the critically lauded “Cadillactica” in 2014, both skyrocketed to number five on the Billboard 200, cementing his place in the industry.

Before the glitz of Def Jam, there was the grind. Mixtapes like “Hood Fame” with DJ Wally Sparks and “The Last King” with DJ Breakem Off laid the groundwork for his monumental rise. These weren’t just collections of tracks; they were the building blocks of Big K.R.I.T.’s musical ethos.

The year 2010 was a whirlwind for Scott. He dropped the acclaimed mixtape “K.R.I.T. Wuz Here” and shared the stage with Curren$y and Smoke DZA on The Smoker’s Club Tour. He wasn’t just another act; he was a force to be reckoned with, a fact further solidified by his performance alongside Wiz Khalifa.

From 2011 to 2015, Scott was a fixture in the rap world. His mixtape “Return of 4Eva” was a narrative powerhouse, weaving stories with depth and emotion. “Live from the Underground” was more than an album release; it was a cultural event, eagerly anticipated and universally acclaimed. His collaboration with Yelawolf on “Country Cousins” and his reverence for rap legends like Scarface and Outkast showcased his deep respect for the genre’s roots.

2013 marked a new phase in Scott’s career. His mixtape “King Remembered In Time” saw him joining forces with other producers, showcasing his adaptability and growth. “Cadillactica” followed suit, featuring an all-star production team including Chad Hugo and Terrace Martin.

Post-2016, Scott embarked on a journey of independence, parting ways with Def Jam and launching his label, Multi Alumni. His third studio album, “4eva Is a Mighty Long Time,” debuted at number seven on the Billboard 200, a testament to his lasting appeal.

“K.R.I.T. Iz Here” in 2019 and “Digital Roses Don’t Die” in 2022 continued his streak of hits. But Big K.R.I.T.’s impact transcends his discography. His profound understanding of his roots, his homage to hip-hop pioneers, and his multifaceted role as a producer contribute to a sound that’s undeniably his.

Big K.R.I.T. is more than a rapper or a producer. He’s a visionary, a monarch in the realm of music, remembered in time not just for his tracks but for his profound influence on the genre. From Mississippi to the global stage, he remains true to his origins, crafting music that resonates not just in the ears but in the hearts of his listeners. As we reflect on his journey, it’s evident that Justin Lewis Scott is more than a name; he’s a living legend, sculpting his chapter in music history.