Antwan André Patton, widely known as Big Boi, is an influential American rapper and record producer celebrated for his significant contributions to the hip-hop genre. Born on February 1, 1975, in Savannah, Georgia, and raised in Atlanta, he gained fame as one half of the groundbreaking Southern hip-hop duo OutKast, alongside fellow rapper André 3000. Together, they formed the group in 1992, which went on to redefine the landscape of hip-hop with their innovative sound and eclectic style.
Big Boi's career with OutKast was marked by a series of critically acclaimed albums that showcased their unique blend of funk, soul, and hip-hop. The duo released six studio albums, each achieving both commercial success and critical acclaim. Their hit singles, including "Ms. Jackson," "Roses," "So Fresh, So Clean," and "Elevators (Me & You)," became staples in the music industry. The pinnacle of their collaboration came with the release of the double album, Speakerboxxx/The Love Below, in 2003, which won three Grammy Awards. The album featured Big Boi's solo single "The Way You Move," which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and was recognized as one of the most successful songs of the 2000s.
After OutKast went on hiatus in 2007, Big Boi embarked on a successful solo career, signing with Def Jam Recordings. His debut studio album, Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty, released in 2010, debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 chart and received widespread critical acclaim. Following this success, he released two more albums, Vicious Lies and Dangerous Rumors in 2012 and Boomiverse in 2017, both of which continued to showcase his lyrical prowess and musical versatility.
In addition to his solo work, Big Boi formed a collaborative project with the electronic rock duo Phantogram, resulting in the release of an EP titled Big Grams in 2015. He also co-founded the supergroup Purple Ribbon All-Stars in 2004, which included artists such as Janelle Monáe, Bubba Sparxxx, and Killer Mike. The group released two albums before disbanding in 2007.
As of 2025, Big Boi was honored with an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of OutKast, solidifying his legacy as a pioneer in the music industry. Throughout his career, he has continued to influence a wide range of artists and remains a prominent figure in hip-hop, known for his distinctive style and innovative contributions to the genre. In his personal life, Big Boi is married to Sherlita Patton, and they share a family together.