BigXthaPlug, born Xavier Landum in Dallas, is making waves in both the rap and country music worlds. Known for his viral hit “Texas,” his journey from prison to rap stardom, and a powerful CMA Awards performance with Luke Combs, BigX is redefining genre boundaries. This article dives into his past, his impact, and what’s next for this rising voice.
Who Is BigXthaPlug – The Guy Performing with Luke Combs at the CMAs
When BigXthaPlug stepped on the Bridgestone Arena stage with Luke Combs at the 2025 CMA Awards, it was more than a surprise — it was a statement. But who is he, and how did he get here? Let’s unpack his journey, his sound, and why he’s become a bridge between rap and country.
BigXthaPlug’s Roots & Rise
From Dallas Beginnings
BigXthaPlug’s real name is Xavier Landum, and he hails from Dallas, Texas. He didn’t come from an easy background. His early life included street struggles and intense moments — but music became his escape and his outlet.
Turning Solitude into Bars
At one point, he found himself in jail and spent time in solitary confinement. Rather than break him, that period fueled his creativity: he started writing lyrics on whatever he could get his hands on. That raw, emotional writing laid the foundation for his future as an artist.
Independent Hustle & Own Label
After his release, he worked hard, recorded music independently, and eventually started his own label, 600 Entertainment. Through that, he’s not just building his own career — he’s helping others get their shot too.
His Sound & Breakout Moments
“Texas” Changed Everything
One of his breakout tracks is “Texas” — a gritty, soulful anthem that’s equal parts rap swagger and regional pride. The song went viral, especially on TikTok, and put BigXthaPlug firmly on the map.
Blending Rap with Heart
BigX’s style isn’t just hard bars. He brings real vulnerability to his music, whether he’s talking about his past, his pain, or his ambition. That honesty helps him connect not just with rap fans, but now with country fans too.
Crossing Over Into Country
In 2025, he released an album titled I Hope You’re Happy, which leans deeply into country-rap crossover territory. He brought in big names like Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, Shaboozey, and Darius Rucker — signaling he’s not just dipping his toes into country; he’s diving in.
The CMA Awards Performance with Luke Combs
“Pray Hard” Took Over the Stage
At the 2025 CMA Awards, BigX joined Luke Combs for a performance of their collaboration “Pray Hard”. The energy was intense and emotional, showcasing both his rap prowess and Combs’ powerful country vocals.
A Symbolic Moment for Genre Blending
This performance wasn’t just cool for fans — it was symbolic. It represented how country and rap can coexist and even thrive together. For BigXthaPlug, it was validation. For country music, it was a bold step forward.
Not Without Its Raw Edges
The performance wasn’t totally polished for TV — some of BigXthaPlug’s lyrics were bled out on the broadcast, reminding viewers that he’s still very much rooted in rap realism.
Why BigXthaPlug Is Resonating Right Now
A Fresh Voice in Both Worlds
He doesn’t feel like a rap artist pretending to do country, or a country artist trying to rap. He’s genuinely committed to both sounds, and that authenticity is powerful.
Real Story, Real Struggle
His past — including legal trouble and time in jail — is not just aesthetic. It’s foundational to his art. Fans respect that he transformed hardship into creativity.
Business Savvy
Running 600 Entertainment shows that he’s not just an artist — he’s also building a legacy. He’s helping others break through while growing his own platform.
Momentum Is High
Between touring, album releases, festival appearances, and now a CMA stage, he has serious momentum. He’s not a one-off; he’s building something lasting.
What’s Next for BigXthaPlug
More Genre-Bending Collaborations
Expect more country-rap collaborations. With his network and his growing credibility in that space, there’s huge potential for new joint tracks, big-name features, and deeper crossover.
Bigger Stages
He’s already shown he can perform at major awards. Next up could be big country festivals, rap tours, and national tours that mix both sides of his music.
Building His Label
As 600 Entertainment grows, he’ll likely sign and mentor up-and-coming artists. That could shape a whole new wave of artists who balance rap grit with emotional vulnerability.
Bigger Narrative Albums
Given his story, expect future albums to dig deeper. Not just about flexing or street tales — but about growth, family, hardship, and healing.
Why His CMA Moment Matters for Music
This isn’t just a win for BigXthaPlug — it’s a noteworthy moment for the music industry. It signals that genre barriers are loosening in a big way. Country music, once quite rigid, is now welcoming artists with very different backgrounds. BigX’s presence shows that authenticity and emotion matter more than fitting into a specific box.
Also Read : Mia Thornton Arrest Drama: What Really Happened With the Former RHOP Star
FAQs
Q: What’s BigXthaPlug’s real name?
He’s Xavier Landum.
Q: Where is he from?
Dallas, Texas.
Q: How did he get famous?
His viral song “Texas” helped him break through. He also built a strong independent presence and founded his own label.
Q: What was his CMA Awards performance with Luke Combs?
They performed their collaboration “Pray Hard”, blending rap verses from BigXthaPlug with Combs’ country vocals.
Q: Is he shifting fully into country music?
Not entirely. While he’s exploring country-rap crossover, he still maintains his roots in rap.
Q: What label is he on?
He founded 600 Entertainment, his own label, to support his career and other artists.
Q: What’s next for him?
Look out for more cross-genre collabs, bigger tours, and potential growth through his label 600 Entertainment.
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