In the hierarchy of hip-hop, a co-sign from Rick Ross is more than a professional endorsement. it is a coronation. The Miami mogul, known as much for his luxury-driven branding as his cinematic storytelling, rarely grants the “Boss” seal of approval lightly. However, Ross has found a kindred spirit in the booming voice and gritty charisma of Dallas rapper BigXThaPlug.
During a recent conversation with Complex journalist Jordan Rose, Ross didn’t just announce a collaboration—he effectively rebranded the Texas artist in the eyes of the industry. By dubbing BigXThaPlug a “Yung Rozay,” Ross has linked the rising star to his own legacy of hustle, opulence, and regional dominance. The comparison is a significant marker of respect, signaling that Ross sees in the Dallas rapper the same trajectory and ambition that fueled his own ascent to the top of the rap game.
The partnership will manifest this Friday with the release of a new single titled “Livin’ Large.” The track serves as a precursor to Ross’ upcoming studio album, Set In Stone, which is scheduled for release on June 12. This collaboration marks the first time the two artists have joined forces, bridging the gap between the luxury rap of Miami and the raw, street-centric sound currently emanating from North Texas.
The Weight of the ‘Rozay’ Moniker
To understand the gravity of being called “Yung Rozay,” one must look at the brand Rick Ross has built over two decades. “Rozay”—derived from the luxury champagne brand—has become shorthand for a specific lifestyle of high-end success, meticulous curation, and unapologetic confidence. When Ross applies this label to BigXThaPlug, he is not merely commenting on the music, but on the artist’s overall presentation and movement.
“Shout out to BigXThaPlug, 600. His whole movement,” Ross told Complex. “I love how he movin’ just as a young hustler. I see a Yung Rozay in him.”
For BigXThaPlug, this endorsement arrives at a pivotal moment. The Dallas artist has spent the last year carving out a unique space in the Southern rap landscape. While many of his contemporaries lean into the high-tempo energy of trap, BigXThaPlug utilizes a deep, resonant baritone and a steady, commanding flow that recalls the golden era of Southern storytelling. His ability to blend vivid street narratives with an undeniable charisma has made him one of the fastest-rising figures in the region.
From Dallas Streets to National Recognition
BigXThaPlug’s rise has been characterized by a steady accumulation of momentum rather than a viral fluke. His success is rooted in the “600” movement, a collective and cultural identity that has helped him maintain authenticity while expanding his reach. As a culture critic who has tracked the evolution of regional rap for publications like Variety and Rolling Stone, BigXThaPlug represents a shift back toward “huge” rap—music that feels physically heavy and authoritative.
His trajectory leading into 2025 has been marked by significant milestones, including the achievement of platinum plaques and a daring foray into genre-blending. His country-influenced debut, I Hope You’re Happy, demonstrated a versatility that is rare for artists rooted so deeply in the street rap tradition. This willingness to experiment is likely what caught Ross’ attention; the “Boss” has always been a proponent of expanding one’s empire beyond a single lane.
The collaboration on “Livin’ Large” is a natural fit given both artists’ shared affinity for the “larger than life” persona. In a landscape often dominated by melodic rap and short-form song structures, the pairing of Ross and BigXThaPlug promises a return to the booming, brass-heavy production and confident lyricism that defines the luxury rap subgenre.
The Strategic Impact of ‘Set In Stone’
The inclusion of BigXThaPlug on Set In Stone is a strategic move for both artists. For Ross, it allows him to maintain his relevance with the next generation of Southern rap fans, aligning himself with the freshest sounds coming out of Texas. For BigXThaPlug, appearing on a Rick Ross album provides an immediate injection of industry prestige and access to a global audience that views Ross as the ultimate curator of the “hustler” aesthetic.
| Project/Single | Artist(s) | Release Date | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| “Livin’ Large” | Rick Ross ft. BigXThaPlug | This Friday | First collaboration; debut of “Yung Rozay” pairing. |
| Set In Stone | Rick Ross | June 12 | Upcoming studio album featuring BigXThaPlug. |
| I Hope You’re Happy | BigXThaPlug | Recent/Upcoming | Country-influenced debut showcasing versatility. |
The impact of this pairing extends beyond the charts. It reinforces the idea that the “South” is not a monolith, but a collection of powerful regional hubs—Miami, Atlanta, Houston, and now Dallas—that can collaborate to dominate the national conversation. By welcoming BigXThaPlug into his inner circle, Ross is effectively passing a torch of influence, acknowledging that the hunger and ambition that defined his own early career are alive and well in the newest generation of Texas talent.
As the industry awaits the arrival of “Livin’ Large,” the narrative has already been set. This is no longer just a feature; it is a public endorsement of BigXThaPlug’s potential to become a mogul in his own right.
Fans can look for the official release of “Livin’ Large” this Friday across all major streaming platforms, with the full Set In Stone album following on June 12. Official updates and promotional content are expected to roll out via the artists’ verified social media channels and Rick Ross’ official website.
Do you think BigXThaPlug lives up to the ‘Yung Rozay’ title? Let us know your thoughts in the comments and share this story with your fellow hip-hop heads.
