Big NeNe Lioness, it’s a name you better get used to hearing because she is definitely on her way to stardom. This young lady has a natural talent for music that was spontaneously unleased. She has big dreams, a solid plan, and stay on the grind letting her talent lead the way. The Fleet Mag reporter Josiah the Prince sat down with the icon in the making to talk about music, future projects, and what she’s doing to dominate the airwaves and stages in 2025.
Big Nene Lioness was born in Alton, Illinois. Raised in a military household, she traveled the world throughout her childhood. From Germany to Hawaii, and all across the U.S., she was exposed to many cultures and a variety of lifestyles that many never get to experience. Though Big Nene Lioness has lived in many places, she describes herself as a “country city girl,” with a passion for music.
Initially, Big Nene Lioness had no aspirations of being the amazing recording artist that she is today. She was actually discovered by Texas music producer Kadofee, on a whim. One night she was attended a show at a local nightclub when she came upon a crowd of guys freestyling. Being the natural born superstar that she is, she made her way to the center of the crowd and said, “I wanna try,” though she had never rapped before, she stepped up with confidence and freestyled a verse leaving everyone amazed, including Kadofee. After the event he approached her and said, “I think you will do good as a rapper” he went on to say, “You have the energy and look.” Kadofee knew immediately Big Nene Lioness was something special. Her tone and delivery could compete with any of today’s hottest rappers. The two exchanged contact info and Kadofee promptly reached out to Big Nene requesting she come to his studio to record a track. She delayed going to the studio for several months, as music was not her dream at that time. Call it a string of strange occurrences or destiny, but Big Nene Lioness began to bump into Kadofee constantly when she was out. He repeatedly told her, “there is something about you, you need to come to the studio.” After much delay, Big Nene decided to go to the studio and she freestyled her first song which set the foundation for success.
Once Big Nene’s first track was complete, Kadofee immediately took the song to 92.3 radio station where a DJ took her under his wing, no questions asked he put the song in rotation and made her the opening act for rapper, Trina.
Big Nene Lioness was amazed how quickly everything fell into place. In a matter of weeks, she went from having no experience or aspirations of being a recording artist, to having her song on the radio in heavy rotation, and opening up before a huge audience for one of the hottest female rapper’s in the business. At that moment, Big Nene realized, “I didn’t choose music but music chose me.” She developed a love for music, honed her gift, and her career quickly took off. The performances kept coming like flowing water as she reached heights in weeks what most artist can only imagine they could accomplish in years. She then found herself before sold out crowds opening for Ray J, UGK, Ronald Isley, Eightball, and many more. She is very grateful her career began on the big stage while many start out performing at local bars and pubs.
The opportunities kept steadily coming for Big Nene Lioness. She worked with numerous stand-out producers including Billy Cook and Tony “Hitman” Brown. She was also offered an incredible record deal in which the iconic Swizz Beatz was set to produce her first album. Due to circumstances out of her control she was not able to attend the business meeting to sign the contract and the deal was voided. Though it was an amazing opportunity, she now understands it was not meant to be. As an indie artist, Big Nene Lioness has obtained success that many have not received while signed to a label.
Though Big Nene Lioness boasts her own unique style, she expressed admiration for music greats Missy Elliot and Da Brat. She feels Missy’s creativity is untouchable and her videos and lyrics are in a league of their own.
Big Nene Lioness stated, “I enjoy making fun party music.” With tracks like Ohh Wee, Club Zone, Jump, 10-4, and Left-Right-Left, she has easily mastered the art of creating party music. She describes her music as “a mixture of genres for everyone,” including r&b, southern soul, pop, hip hop, and inspirational. Her latest album “Kuntry Rhythm” is a prime example.
Music is actually in Big Nene’s bloodline. Her cousin GloRilla is one of the biggest names in rap but Big Nene is not far behind. Her time to shine and dominate the airways and music charts is near.
Big Nene Lioness has a lot in store for 2025. Be on the look out for new music and make sure you catch her performing in a city near you With her energy and talent, climbing to the top of the music charts will be a breeze.
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