Bigg B: Amplifying Indigenous Voices through Hip-Hop
In the Canadian hip-hop landscape, a potent voice rises from the Indigenous Cree Bear Clan—Bigg B. As a political and rational artist, Bigg B channels his art into a loudspeaker for the pressing issues that shadow his community. His lyrics and beats are not just music but a movement, addressing systemic racism, the harrowing legacy of residential schools, and the overlooked crisis of mental health among Indigenous peoples.
A Conduit for Change
Bigg B’s latest single, “Terrorists,” produced by Yung Wunda, epitomizes his raw and confrontational style. The track is a visceral outcry wrapped in rugged beats, resonating with deep-seated frustration and raw emotion. In “Terrorists,” Bigg B flips the script on the pejorative labels often thrust upon Indigenous activists, questioning the real definition of terrorism through compelling rhymes:
“I heard they callin’ us some terrorists.
I can’t believe I’m hearin’ this.
Let us tell you who the terrorists is.”
These lines do more than merely echo; they challenge listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about the treatment of Indigenous peoples in Canada.
Spotlight on Systemic Issues
Bigg B’s lyrics serve as a narrative of resistance and resilience, bringing to the forefront the stark realities his community faces. The song “Terrorists” highlights several critical issues, including the lack of basic amenities such as clean water on reservations—a problem persisting for over two decades. Bigg B’s voice becomes a powerful conduit for expressing the frustrations of his people:
“Reservations with no clean water for 20 years plus.
Havin’ to boil our mother’s water to drink and wash up.”
He critiques the superficial understanding of Indigenous struggles by broader society, and the exploitation of natural resources on ancestral lands without regard for the rights and treaties promised to Indigenous people. Bigg B draws attention to the ongoing battles over land rights and environmental justice, citing specific legal recognitions that have failed to halt detrimental projects like pipelines:
“Over 20 years ago, the Supreme Court of Canada recognized Wet’suwet’en law.
So how are these pipelines still movin’ ahead?”
Art as Activism
Bigg B’s approach to hip-hop is emblematic of art as activism. Through his poignant lyrics and compelling beats, he invites his audience into a dialogue about identity, rights, and survival. His music doesn’t just entertain but educates and empowers, encouraging a deeper understanding and respect for the complex tapestry of Indigenous experiences.
Adding to the complexity of his plight, Bigg B faced significant barriers when attempting to promote “Terrorists” on social media platforms like Instagram. His multiple efforts to campaign for the single were denied based on the content and context of the song, underscoring a concerning inconsistency. This decision starkly contrasts with the ease with which songs promoting violence and sexual conduct often find a platform, highlighting a troubling disparity in the criteria for content promotion.
Through the power of his voice and the impact of his words, Bigg B stands as a beacon of hope and a force of change, pushing for a future where the true history and current challenges of Indigenous communities are acknowledged and addressed. His work is a clarion call for justice and equality, resonating with anyone who stands against oppression and for truth.
In essence, Bigg B isn’t just making music—he’s making history, one verse at a time.
