In the vibrant music scene of Fresno, California, a new voice is making waves. Meet Big Boy Cali, an artist whose unique background and personal experiences are shaping a sound that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Born to Laotian and Khmu parents, Big Boy Cali’s journey to becoming a musician is a true American story. His father, a veteran of the Vietnam War, was given the opportunity to build a new life in the United States after fighting alongside American forces. His mother, an immigrant in a strange land, found solace and joy in music, a passion she would pass down to her son.
“I have vivid memories of my mom writing and singing,” Big Boy Cali recalls. “Seeing her happy like that stuck with me. She was working hard to provide for our family, but in those moments, music brought us together.”
Growing up in poverty, Big Boy Cali faced numerous challenges. As a non-English speaker in a new country, he had to navigate a different culture and language, all while helping to support his family by working in the fields. Yet despite the obstacles, he found his own path to expression and escape through music.
“My parents instilled in me the importance of hard work and perseverance,” he says. “I’m driven to succeed, not just for myself, but to make them proud and show that their sacrifices were worth it.”
Big Boy Cali’s music is a reflection of his journey, with lyrics that speak to the struggles he has faced and the triumphs he has achieved. His favorite line from one of his songs – “They hate when you’re shining, but not who’s on her line!” – encapsulates the determination and confidence that fuels his art.
“I want to leave a legacy that my parents can be proud of,” he says. “I want to be the son who proved the doubters wrong, who made all the stress and hardship worth it.”
With his unique cultural background, personal story, and unwavering passion, Big Boy Cali is an artist on the rise. His music is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unbreakable bond between a parent and child. As he continues to grow and evolve as an artist, one thing is clear – Big Boy Cali is a name you’ll be hearing a lot more of in the future.
“I’m just getting started,” he says. “I have a story to tell, and I won’t stop until it’s heard.”