Big Boi in Raleigh

About Big Boi

Big Boi is one half of OutKast, the Atlanta hip-hop duo that basically redefined southern rap in the 1990s. While André 3000 pursued the weirder, more experimental lane, Big Boi kept things grounded in funk and soul—producing some of the group's most infectious tracks. "The Way You Move" became a crossover hit that somehow made the club and the alternative radio work in tandem. Beyond OutKast, he's released solo albums that showcase his production skills and knack for finding the pocket in any beat. He's the kind of rapper who makes it look effortless, with a delivery that's conversational but precise. His work with Organized Noize shaped the sound of an entire region and generation.

Big Boi brings actual joy to the stage. Crowds lose it for the OutKast classics—everyone's rapping along to "Rosa Parks." He's energetic without being exhausting, and clearly enjoys being there. The band is tight.

Known for The Way You Move, Elevators (Me & You), ATLiens, Aquemini, Rosa Parks

Big Boi + Raleigh

Big Boi played City Plaza in Raleigh on September 9, 2017, and brought 21 songs -- one of the fuller sets he's done. He opened with "Da Next Day" before diving into OutKast with "ATLiens" and "Skew It on the Bar-B." Solo deep cuts like "Mic Jack" and "Chocolate" mixed with classics like "GhettoMusick" and "SpottieOttieDopaliscious." "Shine Blockas" and "Overthunk" were genuine surprises. He closed the main set with "The Way You Move" and "Kryptonite" before bringing back "International Players Anthem" as the encore. Raleigh got the marathon version.

Big Boi in Raleigh News

• Kid Cudi at Coastal Credit Union Music Park foxy99.com · Jan 27, 2026
• Kid Cudi has announced a U.S. tour with M.I.A., Big Boi, and A-Trak, with stops in Charlotte and Raleigh in May CLTure · Jan 26, 2026
• Kid Cudi Returns In 2026 With ‘The Rebel Ragers Tour’ Featuring Special Guests M.I.A., Big Boi, A-Trak, me n ü, And Dot Da Genius Across Select Dates Live Nation · Jan 26, 2026
• Kid Cudi announces tour w/ M.I.A., Big Boi, A-Trak & more BrooklynVegan · Jan 26, 2026
• Kid Cudi Announces 33-Date 'The Rebel Ragers Tour' Ft. Big Boi, M.I.A., More [Dates/Tickets] Live For Live Music · Jan 26, 2026

Live Music in Raleigh

Raleigh's hip-hop landscape has grown quieter than it was ten years ago, but there's still something there—local acts doing their thing, venues sporadically hosting rap shows. Big Boi's southern rap pedigree hits different in a city that appreciates good production and lyrical weight, even if the scene isn't as visible as it once was.

Raleigh road trip to see Big Boi?

Stay in the Warehouse District downtown—it's the only area worth being in, with converted lofts and actual walkability. Dinner at The Grocery or Second Empire, depending on your mood. Spend the next day at the North Carolina Museum of Art, which has decent permanent collection and rotating shows, then walk the trails on the museum's grounds. If you want to stay within the classic rock headspace, the local record shops on Fayetteville Street have decent used vinyl, though the selection is hit-or-miss. Make the 30-minute drive to Chapel Hill if you have time—better music venues, better energy.