‘Queen Diva’ Big Freedia at Pride

Big Freedia is the self-proclaimed “Queen Diva” of bounce music. For more than 15 years Freedia (pronounced Free-da) has been perfecting her craft and molding her performances. A regular at clubs in New Orleans, Freedia has helped bring more mainstream attention to an alternative form of bounce music known as sissy bounce.

The sub-genre of rap originated in New Orleans in the early ’90s and much like crunk, Miami bass and juke music, it is a highly urbanized style of hip hop. While Freedia maintains there’s no difference between the sissy bounce and regular bounce, some fans and critics have credited her with a merger of the two. While she is a regular performer at all the hottest gay events, she’s often seen performing at straight bars and clubs.

Currently she is working on her third album while touring clubs around the U.S. and Canada. Her first two hits, “Gin in my System,” and “Azz Everywhere!” were YouTube sensations and showcase her high-energy dance sound. Freedia’s shows are much more than just a simple dance event, there is a huge level of enthusiasm and audience involvement. The gender-bending performer will be one of the biggest hits of the entire Pride Festival and will be taking the North Main Stage by storm at 10 p.m. on Saturday, June 4.