Big Sas And Zion Otis Are A Cultural Revelation
Standing out as an artist in Hip Hop can be the most daunting task, especially in New York City. From Lola Brooke becoming an international sensation, to Ice Spice and Connie Diamond highlighting new narratives from the Bronx, women from New York have been taking center stage in Hip Hop and the popular music scene as a whole. With unrivaled lyricism and magnetic charisma, the city’s new wave of Rap Queens are reminding you they’re the last ones to play with.
From Bedford-Stuyversant, a neighborhood eternally associated with Hip-Hop royalty, Big Sas has been a fixture in the city’s famous underground music scene. Her beauty is one of the first things people notice, and her brilliance and uncompromising pride in her identity as a black, Haitian woman leaves a strong impression. In every inch of her delivery, you hear an authentic fusion of real raw grit with healing energy.
As an accomplished performer and writer bar none, Sas has also made a name for herself through intentional activism. Being of Haitian descent, she has dedicated much of her artistry and energy towards “encompassing the traditional vibes of her Haitian Culture” while contributing to the betterment of her island on systemic levels. Beyond conducting fundraisers, Big Sas has made a point to ensure that the money raised was going directly to the organizations they were meant to help, among them women’s prisons and orphanages.
Upon being introduced to Web3 and its potential Sas began collaborating with people in the space. She collaborated with acclaimed photographer Issa Khari to release “Pitit fi Ayiti”, a digital art piece released as an NFT. The piece pays homage to her own heritage, as well as the revolutionary legacy that Haiti helped to inspire throughout the Caribbean, the Western Hemisphere, and the world as a result.
This past summer, ARCHIV3 met up with Sas for the debut exhibition of “ The Libations Collection”, in collaboration with Vesica Recordz and creative partner, Zion Otis. Upon purchase, each piece will be integrated with an NFT to act as digital authentication for each print. 50% of the proceeds will be going directly to assisting families in Haiti. Additionally, each holder will be airdropped updates on how this capital is being used. Mostly excited about Web3’s ability to be transparent, Sas hopes this project can set new precedents for responsible activism in the space.
Being the complete package as an artist, performer, and activist, Big Sas is stepping into the weird world of Web3 to make the biggest impact, both in music and activism. In her own words, you can expect to see her embodying “healing, Haitian Culture, Female Empowerment, Sexual Empowerment, and REALLY really rapping.” Her most recent EP, “Keys to the Throne” is currently available on all streaming platforms.
Writing by Nik VRSI
Photography By Joshua Sauceda
