In the heart of Arkansas, where the struggle is real and the streets are unforgiving, a young voice is rising. Walter Hobbs III, better known by his stage name BigSteppa Walt, is a rapper from Little Rock who’s turning heads with his raw, honest lyrics and a flow that blends pain, resilience, and a defiant determination to rise above his circumstances.
Born and raised in John Barrow, one of Little Rock’s most notorious neighborhoods, BigSteppa Walt’s life has been marked by the harsh realities of poverty, violence, and loss. Yet, despite the odds stacked against him, he’s found a way to channel his experiences into music that resonates with anyone who’s ever known struggle.
“My music speaks to the trials and tribulations I’ve faced,” he says. “Growing up in poverty, dealing with legal issues, losing loved ones to the streets and the system…I’ve been through a lot for my age. But I’ve learned that it’s eat or be eaten, and I chose to eat.”
BigSteppa Walt’s sound is a reflection of his environment, but it’s also infused with the morals and principles instilled in him by the strong women who raised him. His music often touches on themes of patience, focus, strength, compassion, truth, respect, loyalty, and love. He raps with a lyrical versatility that sets him apart from his peers, and his soulful singing adds an extra layer of depth to his tracks.
“Music gave me a voice when I didn’t have one,” he explains. “I’ve always been quiet, but through my songs, I can express how I’m really feeling. It’s been my outlet, my way of coping with the struggles I’ve faced.”
Despite being relatively new to the industry, BigSteppa Walt is already making waves in Little Rock’s music scene. His unique style and raw talent have earned him recognition from influencers, entertainers, and fellow rappers. However, his journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Legal issues have occasionally hindered his progress, making it difficult to consistently deliver the content his fans crave. He’s also faced hurdles when it comes to promotions and getting his music featured on certain blogs.
“Sometimes it’s hard to separate your music from your street life,” he admits. “And when you’re trying to get your name out there, it can be tough figuring out who to trust with your promotions.”
Undeterred, BigSteppa Walt remains focused on his goals. He sees a bright future for himself and other artists from Arkansas, a state he believes is teeming with undiscovered talent. He envisions starting his own label to showcase these diamonds in the rough. Collaboration is also on his mind, both with artists from his home state and those from different genres.
“I want to work with people who inspire me, who push me to be my best,” he says. “I’m open to exploring different sounds and styles. The goal is to keep growing and keep making music that means something to my listeners.”
BigSteppa Walt’s next project, an album titled “Hustle Star,” is set to drop on January 3, 2025. The album will be a deeply personal reflection of his journey, from the struggles he’s overcome to the man he’s become. He’s also releasing a single called “Free Spark” on Christmas Day, dedicated to his aunt who’s facing 15 years in federal prison.
“My music is my story, and ‘Hustle Star’ is the next chapter,” he explains. “It’s about what it takes to survive and thrive in a place like Little Rock, where you have to hustle every day just to make it. I’m not just rapping for myself, I’m rapping for my people, my city. I want to be a voice for those who haven’t found theirs yet.”
As BigSteppa Walt continues to rise, his name is becoming synonymous with the spirit of Little Rock’s streets – resilient, unapologetic, and determined to make a way out of no way. His music is a testament to the power of the human spirit, a reminder that even in the darkest times, there’s always a way to find the light.
“I’m not a victim of my circumstances,” he says. “I’m a product of my environment, and I’m choosing to use my experiences to fuel my success. I’m a hustler, a grinder, a star in the making. And I won’t stop until I reach the top.”
With his talent, drive, and unwavering dedication, there’s no doubt that BigSteppa Walt will make his mark on the music world. His story is one of triumph in the face of adversity, a shining example of what it means to be a true hustler. As he continues to climb, he’s bringing Little Rock with him, ensuring that the voices of Arkansas artists are heard loud and clear.
“I’m not just doing this for myself,” he says. “I’m doing it for my city, my people. I want to show the world what we’re capable of. Arkansas, we’re coming. Get ready.”
Follow BigSteppa Walt:
- Instagram: @waltgetfundz
- Apple Music
- Spotify
- YouTube
Stream his latest music and stay tuned for the release of “Hustle Star” on January 3, 2025. The single “Free Spark” drops on Christmas Day.