Big Tigger is a Renaissance man of the hip hop world. He’s done it all in his roles as rapper, television host, DJ, and all-around ubiquitous figure in the scene. From his beginnings as a local DJ on the East Coast of the United States to nationwide success on BET’s Rap City, he’s a man who has his finger on the pulse of the industry. Currently, he is the DJ for the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, and even more recently than landing that gig, he’s become an aficionado of diving. We got a minute of his time to see what he’s up to.
First off! How are things?
Everything is great. I’d rather be diving though.
For those in the dive community who might not be familiar with your work, tell us about yourself.
Whassup… I’m Big Tigger, former host of BET’s 106 & Park and Rap City : Tha Bassment. Current Host of my own radio show on V103 Monday to Friday 2-6PM in Atlanta, GA USA… also the official DJ for the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks. Overall cool guy and Advanced Open Water Diver.
As a fan, and as a reporter, I really like the video for “If You Don’t Know,” how’d you develop that concept?
I came up with the concept of conducting an interview while rhyming and presented itto Busta Rhymes. He loved it, we co-wrote it, and then shot a video for it. One of my most proud moments professionally to see that come to life.
Check out the music video by clicking here!
Onto diving, how’d you end up discovering the sport?
I was visiting some beautiful island (my other favorite thing to do) and a few friends said let’s try beginner scuba. I was instantly hooked. Went on 2 or 3 more beginner scuba outings before I decided to get certified.
What are your favorite beach destinations?
Turks & Caicos, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Aruba are some of my faves.. Gotta couple on my to do list… Maui, Bora Bora, Maldives, Santorini, etc…
Researching new dive spots since getting the COSMIQ? How ya’ liking the computer?
So far I’ve been loving my COSMIQ. The connectivity between it and the Deepblu app has been great. Being able to post dive logs with pics and video is amazing.
What would you say is the nexus of hip-hop and beach culture? The world has come a long way since MTV’s Beach House with Bill Bellamy… (I just realized that was 25 years ago…)
I would say most people enjoy a beautiful beach getaway. Music plays a huge role in a lot of those people’s lives. Hip hop music is the most lucrative, impactful, and popular music genre these days, so hip hop is ever present at any and most beaches. My annual Memorial Day Getaway trip to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic is huge evidence of that community loving to get to a beach and turn up.
Being based in Atlanta now, what are your quick fixes when you need to get in the water? Any nearby beaches or dive spots?
Florida is really close, so Destin, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami Beach are always close options. I’m about to dive Key Largo this month for the first time with a large group of dive friends affectionately know as Scuba SquadNation.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Shoutout to all my divers! I’d love to travel all around and see the most amazing dive sites. Bora Bora, the Great Barrier Reef, Maui, and Maldives are high on my list. Thanks for the love and everyone dive safe.
Thanks for your Time!
– Todd Allen Williams, Senior Editor
For more on Big Tigger check out his website by clicking here.
Plan your next dive trip on Planet Deepblu!
Download the Deepblu app for iOS here and Android here.
