Big Tigger has earned a name for himself as one of radio and television’s most distinctive personalities, providing hip-hop fanatics with the hottest music and performances from multi-platinum hip-hop and R&B; artists, including Ashanti, Eminem, Jay-Z, Missy Elliott, Snoop Dogg and 50 Cent. He reaches millions of fans daily, as host of New York City’s Power 105.1 FM, Detroit’s FM98 WJLB, Miami’s new 103.5 FM The Beat and BET’s top-rated “Rap City: Tha Bassment.” Big Tigger is set to expand his listening empire with his own syndicated weekly countdown show “Live in the Den with Big Tigger” debuting this June. This well-spoken broadcast veteran defines the who, what, when, where and how of hip-hop culture.
Big Tigger landed his first gig in commercial radio as a DJ at 92 Q in Baltimore, but the road to success began taking shape just a few years earlier. While attending the University of Maryland and interning at Washington, D.C.’s WPGC 95.5 FM, Big Tigger worked alongside popular host Al B. Dee, and was promptly recognized for his ambition and charisma. The college internship evolved into a flourishing career and in no time, Big Tigger, with his innovative freestyles, took night radio by storm. When the Bronx native returned to New York City in 2001, he departed D.C. as the highest rated, six-year undefeated nighttime radio champion!
Well-known for his silky smooth tenor, Big Tigger entered the television scene on voiceovers for BET in 1997, while still working the radio circuit. Within a year, fans were watching him on-camera, on Rap City’s “Hip Hop News,” and he swiftly advanced to become the co-host of Rap City in its 10th season, alongside Big Lez and Joe Clair. Internal changes at BET led to the reform of Rap City into Rap City: Tha Bassment. As host, Big Tigger, is a prime factor of the show’s success as the longest-running nationally televised hip-hop show. Rap City: Tha Bassment features the hottest DJs and artists in hip-hop, and the popular “Tha Booth” segment allows the multi-faceted veejay to showcase his freestyle talents. A natural in front of the camera, Big Tigger is often chosen for commercial and television roles; recent highlights include a national Reebok commercial with All-Star guard Steve Francis of the Houston Rockets and an upcoming guest star appearance on Dave Chappelle’s new Comedy Central show.
With his unwavering talent and versatility, Big Tigger is well on his way to dominating the music scene in addition to the small screen. A gifted lyricist, Big Tigger recently made his rap debut on R. Kelly’s new platinum album “Chocolate Factory” on the single entitled “Snake.” He is also featured on a hidden track of Ginuwine’s latest album, “The Senior,” and boasts numerous vocal cameo appearances on albums for hip-hop artists including Method Man, O.G.C., Redman, Too Short and Pete Rock. Big Tigger recently demonstrated his lyrical prowess on Jordan Brand’s promotional cd-rom, which accompanied the Air Jordan 17 basketball shoes.
Making moves in the recording studio has still left this music mogul plenty of time on the mic. In addition to his top rated shows on New York’s Power 105.1 FM and Detroit’s FM98 WJLB, Big Tigger recently added the midday slot of Miami’s new 103.5 The Beat to his hectic schedule. Starting this June, Big Tigger will have his own two hour syndicated radio show entitled “Live in the Den with Big Tigger.” The weekly countdown show will feature today’s hottest artists, interviews and entertainment news. Syndicated by Premiere Radio Network, Live in the Den will launch initially in 30 markets, including six of the ten largest markets.
Out of his genuine concern for the community and youth, Big Tigger organized The Street Corner Foundation (SCF), a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing public awareness and prevention of HIV/AIDS, and to improving quality of life for youth by focusing on the issues of literacy and self-esteem. Last June, SCF and Big Tigger launched an annual three-day charity event in Washington, D.C. Attended by celebrities from the worlds of music, sports and film/television, the weekend highlights included a kick-off party, Pajama Jam event and an All-Star celebrity basketball game. Big Tigger’s 2nd Annual Celebrity Classic, presented by SCF, is scheduled for June 27th – 29th.
During Big Tigger’s downtime, he enjoys motorcycle riding, playing basketball and participating in charitable events. Whether he’s on the radio or television, emceeing or veejaying, Big Tigger leaves a lasting impression in the minds of millions of fans.