BigXthaPlug welcomed Billboard to Los Angeles with a stop at Max City BBQ, where he dug into smoked links while ribs were brought out as an extra treat. Between bites, the Dallas rapper opened up about how a difficult time in jail became the starting point of his career.

At just 20 years old, he was serving time after a probation violation when his son Amar celebrated his first birthday. “It took a toll on me,” BigX explained. “And made me very emotional. So they [jail officials] had to confine me by myself. And in that confinement, I felt like I was losing myself mentally.” Looking for ways to keep his spirit intact, he asked other inmates how they coped. One idea was to try writing, which soon turned into rap lyrics scribbled on medical sheets since notebooks were not allowed. “I wasn’t planning to be a rapper,” he admitted. His focus shifted after he made a vow to Amar that “you’ll never not be with me ever again,” pushing him to find a way to support his family while staying present in his children’s lives.

That decision set the stage for a breakthrough. Today, BigX boasts hit singles like “Texas,” “Mmhmm” and “The Largest,” along with a gold-certified album Amar in 2023 and a platinum project Take Care in 2024. His third release, I Hope You’re Happy, arrives this week through UnitedMasters. The record blends his Texas roots with country influences and includes features from Bailey Zimmerman, Jelly Roll, Shaboozey, Luke Combs, Ella Langley, and Ink.

Now raising two children, Amar and Leilani, BigX was recently honored with the Innovator Award at Billboard’s Country Power Players. He says this new album reflects heartbreak, fatherhood, and growth, while he also takes time to enjoy being a dad and keeping an eye on the coming football season.