For NHL Big Bandicoot, music has always been more than entertainment—it has been a way to tell his story, represent where he comes from, and create opportunities for a bigger future. Originally born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the artist now calls Prescott, Arizona home, carrying with him the lessons, experiences, and hustle that shaped his journey.
Growing up in the Midwest played a major role in who he became as both a person and an artist. Life in Chicago and Milwaukee taught him the importance of hard work, staying focused, and earning everything through dedication. Surrounded by family, music, and the realities of everyday life, he developed a mindset built on perseverance. Those early experiences gave him the stories he would later bring to his music and the motivation to chase something greater.
NHL Big Bandicoot first started making music at the age of 15. What began as a fun way to express himself alongside friends gradually evolved into something much more serious. As he gained life experience and grew as an individual, he realized music was more than just a hobby. By the age of 22, he fully committed to pursuing his career, investing in his craft, recording consistently, and building the foundation of his brand.
Like many artists, his sound was influenced by the music he grew up listening to. His playlist included artists such as Eminem, Boosie, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z, Soulja Boy, Chris Brown, and Rae Sremmurd, along with a variety of Midwest talent. Each artist left a different impact on him. Eminem inspired storytelling, Lil Wayne demonstrated creativity and work ethic, while Boosie showed the value of authenticity. Artists like Soulja Boy and Rae Sremmurd helped him understand how music can connect with people and influence culture. Combined with the Midwest sounds that surrounded him growing up, these influences helped shape his unique style.
Today, NHL Big Bandicoot describes his music as a blend of Midwest hustle, Southern energy, club-ready vibes, and real-life experiences. His records are designed for people who enjoy turning up, having fun, and relating to the everyday grind. Above all, his music remains authentic, energetic, and true to who he is.
His recording journey started with a do-it-yourself approach. Early on, he taught himself how to record and learned through trial and error. As his ambitions grew, he began working in professional studio environments, including Saltmine Oasis in Mesa, Arizona, where he further developed his sound. He also spent time recording with ChopTheChef in Chandler, Arizona, gaining valuable experience that helped elevate the quality and direction of his music.
Outside the studio, the places he spent time growing up also helped shape his perspective. Throughout Milwaukee and Chicago, he was heavily involved in local music scenes, attending events, networking with artists, and building relationships within the culture. Those environments fueled his passion and strengthened his work ethic. Moving to Arizona presented a different challenge. In Prescott Valley, hip-hop did not have the same presence or acceptance that he was used to back home. Rather than seeing it as an obstacle, he viewed it as an opportunity to help build and strengthen the local hip-hop community. That determination continues to influence both his music and his mission.
Most recently, NHL Big Bandicoot released “TwerkSum” featuring BagChaser Doug, a high-energy record packed with club vibes and the fun side of his artistry while staying true to the BGCHL movement. The release showcases his ability to create music that gets people moving while maintaining the authenticity that his supporters have come to expect.
Looking ahead, fans have plenty to anticipate. NHL Big Bandicoot is preparing to release his upcoming single “Let’s Get Ghost,” along with new collaborations, music videos, and visual projects. As he continues pushing the Bag Chaser Hittin Lics (BGCHL) brand forward, he remains focused on expanding his reach and delivering consistent content to his growing audience.
As his journey continues, NHL Big Bandicoot remains grateful to everyone who has played a role in his success. He gives special thanks to his family, friends, supporters, and the entire BGCHL team, as well as the producers, engineers, DJs, promoters, venue owners, fellow artists, and fans who have supported him along the way. Every stream, share, comment, ticket purchase, and word of encouragement has helped him continue building his career.
