Big Freedia, the undisputed queen of New Orleans bounce music, is taking a bold step into gospel with her latest album. Titled Praise & Bounce, the record merges her high-energy beats with uplifting spiritual themes, marking a surprising yet soulful evolution in her career.
The artist, known for her collaborations with Beyoncé on tracks like Formation, revealed that working with the global superstar inspired her to explore faith and identity in her music. "Beyoncé showed me the power of blending messages with movement," Freedia shared. "This album is my testimony—celebrating God, love, and being unapologetically yourself."
A Fusion of Faith and Freestyle
The album features gospel choirs, pulsating basslines, and Freedia’s signature call-and-response vocals. Tracks like Heaven Meets the Floor and Bless That Booty showcase her unique ability to merge the sacred and the secular.
LGBTQ+ advocates have praised the project for its inclusivity, with Freedia—an openly gay artist—using her platform to challenge traditional gospel norms. "God loves all of us," she asserts. "This music is for everyone who’s ever felt judged or excluded."
From Bounce to Belief
Freedia’s journey from underground bounce pioneer to mainstream collaborator has been groundbreaking. Her work with Beyoncé on Break My Soul and Formation introduced bounce music to global audiences, and now, she’s redefining gospel with the same fearless energy.
Fans can expect electrifying live performances, with Freedia promising "church meets club" shows later this year. Praise & Bounce is out now on streaming platforms.
