Who Is Big Freedia? Age, Biography and Wiki
Big Freedia, born on January 28, 1978, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a dynamic American rapper known for her pivotal role in the bounce music genre, which originated from her hometown. As of 2025, she is 47 years old. Freedia has made significant waves in the music industry with her energetic performances and empowering lyrics, often addressing issues of gender and sexuality. She gained widespread popularity through her television appearances, particularly on shows like Big Freedia: Queen of Bounce, which showcases her life, career, and the vibrant culture of New Orleans.
| Occupation | Musicians |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 28, 1978 |
| Age | 47 Years |
| Birth Place | New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Big Freedia's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Big Freedia is known for her charismatic stage presence, standing at approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall. While exact weight figures can vary, she is recognized for her fit physique and is often seen flaunting her curves with confidence. Her body measurements reflect her dynamic persona, focusing on self-love and body positivity, which resonates with her fans.
Freddie Ross Jr. (born January 28, 1978), better known by her stage name Big Freedia, is an American rapper, singer and performer known for her work in the New Orleans genre of hip hop called bounce music. Freedia has been credited with helping popularize the genre, which had been largely underground since developing in the early 1990s.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Big Freedia's dating life has been somewhat private, although she has previously been open about her experiences in past relationships. Currently, she is believed to be dating a mysterious partner, but their identity has not been disclosed publicly. Freedia emphasizes the importance of support from her family and has often expressed gratitude for their influence on her life. Throughout her career, she has maintained a close-knit relationship with her family, which has been a source of inspiration.
As a child, she took piano lessons and sang in the choir of the neighborhood Baptist church, "Pressing Onward M.B.C.", and has said that music was always a part of her life. Freddie's mother exposed her to artists such as Patti LaBelle, and she was also influenced by disco singer Sylvester, Michael Jackson, and Salt-N-Pepa.
Net Worth and Salary
Big Freedia's net worth has seen substantial growth in recent years, and as of 2025, it is estimated to be around $4 million. Her earnings primarily stem from her music career, including album sales, live performances, and merchandise. Additionally, Freedia has expanded her brand by participating in various media projects, endorsements, and collaborations, further boosting her financial status.
In 2016, Freedia was indicted on charges of theft of government funds after she failed to report her income earnings between 2010 and 2014 while still claiming Section 8 housing benefits. Later that year, she pled guilty to all charges.
She was sentenced to three years' probation and ordered to pay $35,000 in restitution and perform 100 hours of community service in lieu of a jail sentence.
In addition, she was ordered to live in a halfway house prior to sentencing after testing positive for marijuana and methamphetamine and was ordered to undergo drug testing as a condition of her probation.
In 2018, Big Freedia revealed in an Instagram video that the judge in the case had granted her request to end his probation one year early for good behavior.
Career, Business, and Investments
Big Freedia's career soared with the release of her hit singles, and her distinctive sound has garnered her a dedicated fan base both locally and globally. Over the years, she has released multiple albums and collaborated with renowned artists, bridging gaps between genres. Beyond music, she has successfully launched a line of merchandise and has been involved in various business ventures, including event hosting and community projects.
Freedia is also actively engaged in philanthropy, supporting causes related to LGBTQ+ rights and aiding those affected by Hurricane Katrina, which impacted her community profoundly.
In 1999, Freedia began her professional career with the release of her first single, "An Ha, Oh Yeah", and began performing frequently in clubs and other venues in New Orleans. Other local hits included "Rock Around the Clock" and "Gin 'N My System", which was later quoted by local rapper Lil Wayne on a mixtape. She released her first studio album, Queen Diva, in 2003.
Social Network
Big Freedia has a significant presence on various social media platforms, including Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, where she interacts with fans and promotes her work. As of 2025, she boasts over 1 million followers on Instagram, where she shares insights into her personal life, snippets from her performances, and promotes her brand.
Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans in 2005, and Freedia, along with other bounce artists such as Katey Red and Freedia's protege Sissy Nobby, were forced to vacate the city.
Freedia settled for several months in Texas, where she began performing bounce shows for the locals, helping spread awareness of the genre like other displaced bounce artists. She moved back to New Orleans at the first opportunity.
According to Freedia, "The first club that reopened in New Orleans was Caesar's, and they called me immediately and said let's do a regular night with you here. So we started FEMA Fridays.
It was the only club open in the city, and a lot of people had a lot of money from Katrina, the checks and stuff, so the joy inside that club—I don't think that'll ever come back."
Education
While specific details on Big Freedia's education are limited, she has expressed that her upbringing in New Orleans played a critical role in shaping her artistic voice. Freedia's location in the culturally rich environment of New Orleans has provided her with invaluable education in music, collaboration, and the importance of community.
Ross attended Walter L. Cohen High School, where she continued to perform in choir and also became the choir director. This experience made her realize she could write and produce. According to Freedia, she initially suffered from stage-fright, and had to coax herself onto stage until she became comfortable performing.
