Big Sean, born Sean Michael Leonard Anderson, is a rapper, singer, and songwriter from Detroit, Michigan. While he has been in the music industry for over ten years, he is still considered one of the freshest and most talented rappers in the game. Big Sean has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Kanye West, Ariana Grande, and Jhene Aiko. In this article, we will explore the roots of Big Sean’s success and the journey that led him to become one of the most sought-after artists today.
Early Life
Big Sean was born on March 25, 1988, in Santa Monica, California. However, he spent most of his childhood in Detroit, where he grew up with his mother and grandmother after his father left the family. Sean’s mother was a schoolteacher, and his grandmother was a singer and pianist, which exposed him to music from a young age. Sean attended Cass Technical High School in Detroit, where he honed his music skills and developed a passion for rapping.
Career Beginnings
Big Sean’s music career officially began in 2007, when he met Kanye West at a radio station in Detroit. After hearing Sean rap, Kanye immediately signed him to his record label, GOOD Music. In 2011, Big Sean released his debut album, “Finally Famous,” which peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album featured hit singles such as “My Last” featuring Chris Brown and “Marvin & Chardonnay” featuring Kanye West and Roscoe Dash.
In the years that followed, Big Sean continued to release successful albums and singles, including “Hall of Fame” (2013), “Dark Sky Paradise” (2015), and “I Decided” (2017). He also collaborated with numerous artists, including Ariana Grande, Jhene Aiko, Drake, and Lil Wayne.
Personal Life
Big Sean’s personal life has been a source of inspiration for his music. Throughout his career, he has been open about his struggles with depression and anxiety. In an interview with Billboard, he explained that he had been battling mental health issues since he was a teenager and had used music as an outlet to express his feelings.
Big Sean has also been in high-profile relationships, including a two-year relationship with Ariana Grande and an on-and-off relationship with Jhene Aiko. In his music, he has often touched upon the topic of love and relationships, showing his vulnerable side and connecting with his audience on a personal level.
Philanthropy
Big Sean is not just a talented rapper but also a philanthropist who has used his success to give back to his community. In 2012, he launched the Sean Anderson Foundation, which is dedicated to improving the lives of young people through education, health, and safety initiatives. The foundation has partnered with various organizations to provide academic scholarships, support mental health awareness campaigns, and fund community programs.
Conclusion
Big Sean is a rapper who has paved a unique path in the music industry with undeniable talent and authenticity. He has shown that with hard work, passion, and a dedication to one’s craft, anyone can achieve success. Furthermore, Big Sean’s dedication to giving back to his community and advocating for mental health awareness has made him not only a successful musician but also an admirable role model. His journey continues to inspire many individuals, especially youths who aspire to make it big in the music industry.