Photo: Johnny Nunez / Contributor via Getty Images and Roger Kisby / Contributor via Getty Images
  /  05.18.2023

Today’s (May 18) “Big Facts” episode featured Washington, D.C. rapper Fat Trel. DJ Scream, Big Bank, and Baby Jade discussed fatherhood, life before and after prison, and music with him. The full-time dad was happy to share the accomplishment of gaining full custody of his oldest daughter. He expressed to the crew that being more attentive to his children and staying out of trouble is of the utmost importance. Fat Trel served a total of 4 1/2 years in prison for DWI and marijuana possession charges as well as probation discrepancies in Arlington, Virginia.

While incarcerated, Gleesh had time to do a vast amount of self-reflection and took accountability for the actions that got him arrested. “I was always in traffic; the police always approached me. I had to think about it, ‘Why does the police always approach me?’ Because you make yourself available and accessible to be approached,” the “Strike Sum” emcee explained while reflecting on what led to his temporary defeat. Fat Trel shared with Big Bank that he and his team reached out to Meek Mill and Kim Kardashian to help bring him home. “I was definitely looking for avenues to get out,” he admitted. Meek and Kardashian are known to be involved in a lot of justice reform, and he showed love to the latter for being able to bring a few D.C. natives home from long-term sentences.

Although he was locked up, the grind didn’t stop. The Northeast superstar recorded over 250 songs, as he had always been eager to get back to work and stay in the game. DJ Scream inquired about his relationship with Wale, as both artists are DMV role models. “I’ve always looked at him as a big brother. A lot of my success and notoriety in the music industry, I got to thank him for. [He’s a] good-hearted dude,” the father of three said when speaking of his MMG colleague. Wale hosted an open mic night, offering the winner a free verse and music video. Fat Trel was the winner of the challenge, and their brotherhood began to flourish from there. He had the opportunity to shadow Wale on tour and in the studio.

Moreover, the “Big Facts” family wanted to know who he’d build a roster with if he were to start his own label. “All politics aside, I’d want Boogie. Big Boogie from CMG; his live performances is off the charts. Lola Brooke, I like her [gritty] demeanor. I feel like that energy in a female has been missing, that old New York. Also, that kid I just met from Atlanta, Wee2Hard, he’s signed to QC, and he got some hard a** songs. It’s a lot of dope a** artists though,” explained the Northeast D.C. native. Furthermore, the “What It Is” lyricist revealed that his dream features are John Legend and Anita Baker. When asked whom he considers to be the GOAT of rap, he gave a lot of credit to Rick Ross. “I’m big on lyricism. I’m big on ‘How does your music make me feel?’ I feel like he always gave out that boss aura,” the emcee elaborated.

Overall, Fat Trel revealed that he is ultimately pro-life now. He admitted that prison changed his perspective on life, and his freedom being stripped showed him not to take the luxury of being able to move how you want for granted. As good conduct and his family are top priorities, he avoids being anywhere that is not conducive to the goals he’s set for himself and his family. For example, the rapper intentionally avoids grocery shopping as the number of mass shootings have heightened. “They shooting and killing everywhere. So, I kind of sort of don’t want to be nowhere unless I can control the environment,” he explained. Trel believes that his new way of moving is what will keep him safe and alive. He expressed his condolences to Pop Smoke, PnB Rock, and Takeoff. “It’s just the way their lives were taken is a real eye-opener. I don’t trust nobody,” he admitted.

In conclusion, he shared the following jewels and gems: “Put God first and focus on your hustle. Focus on what’s important to you. If you don’t have something that’s important to you, find it. Locate your strengths and weaknesses.”

If you enjoyed this week’s recap of “Big Facts,” tune in every Thursday for new episodes. Also, if you missed the latest discussion, you can check it out here.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

View More

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

View More

Trending

Walmart has the home essentials for everyone on your holiday shopping list

Below, our gift guide highlights some of our favorite Walmart finds for anyone in need of a home refresh.

  /  11.24.2023

5 things you need to know about the 2023 Billboard Music Awards

“REVOLT Black News” correspondent Kennedy Rue counts down the top five moments from the 2023 Billboard Music Awards, including surprising wins, historic firsts, and dope performances. Sponsored by Amazon.

  /  11.20.2023

Dig In & Drink Up | 'Bet on Black'

In this new episode of ‘Bet on Black,’ food and beverage take center stage as aspiring Black entrepreneurs from It’s Seasoned, Black Farmer Box, and Moors Brewing Co. present their business ideas to judges with mentorship from Melissa Butler. Watch here!

  /  11.15.2023

The Auditions | 'Shoot Your Shot'

The competition begins at REVOLT WORLD as rising rappers, singers, and musicians line up to audition for their spot on the main stage. Brought to you by McDonald’s.

  /  11.28.2023

Walmart's HBCU Black and Unlimited Tour kicks off at Central State University

On Oct. 10, Walmart unveiled a brand new, state of the art creative studio on the campus of Central State University.

  /  11.14.2023

The Walmart HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour visited Mississippi Valley State University

The Walmart HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour made its final stop at Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) and left a lasting impact on students and alumni alike.

  /  11.22.2023

Walmart continues HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour during lively Virginia State University stop

After unveiling their state of the art creative studio on the campus of Central State University, Walmart brought the HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour to Virginia State University (VSU) on Oct. 13.

  /  11.14.2023

Walmart HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour brings attention and wisdom to North Carolina Central University

On Oct. 17, Walmart brought the third stop of the HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour to North Carolina Central University (NCCU).

  /  11.15.2023

Walmart brings in heavy-hitters for Black and Unlimited Tour panel

REVOLT is continuing its impactful partnership with Walmart by teaming up to showcase Black creatives at HBCUs all-across America. The panel consisted of three experienced, accomplished Black HBCU alumni: Actor and media personality Terrence J, entertainment attorney John T. Rose, and actress and “REVOLT Black News” correspondent Kennedy-Rue McCullough.

  /  11.30.2023

Dr. Jaqueline Echols' mission to cure environmental racism

The health of a community can often be traced to the health of the environment that surrounds it. In Atlanta, a woman named Dr. Jaqueline Echols has dedicated her life to helping ensure that people in economically underserved communities have clean rivers – for better health and for the joy of outdoor recreational space.

  /  12.01.2023

Walmart's Makers Studio at REVOLT WORLD transformed passion into progress

Take a look inside the Makers Studio presented by Walmart at REVOLT WORLD, a space where Black creators could hone in on their brand and see it come to life.

  /  12.04.2023

Walmart's Opportunity Center at REVOLT WORLD empowered HBCU students

Fly Guy DC taps in with REVOLT WORLD attendees to learn what the Opportunity Center, presented by Walmart, means to them and their futures.

  /  12.04.2023

The $200,000 goes to… | 'Bet on Black'

In the season finale of “Bet on Black,” special guest judge Ray J joins as the finalists take the main stage to show they have what it takes to win the $200,000 grand prize; Melissa Butler and Eunique Jones Gibson mentor. Presented by Target.

  /  12.04.2023

So Phresh, so clean | 'Bet on Black'

There’s only one round left as the last few founders – Terra-Tory, Phreshly, and ConditionHER – pitch to the “Bet on Black” judges for their chance in the finals and winning the grand prize; Eunique Jones Gibson mentors. Watch here!

  /  12.04.2023

Investing in stocks in a recession | 'Maconomics'

Host Ross Mac provides useful advice for preparing your personal finances in the event of a recession. He emphasizes the importance of budgeting properly, building an emergency fund, and maintaining discipline when investing.

  /  11.21.2023

Walmart's HBCU Black and Unlimited Tour kicked off at Central State University

In October, Walmart unveiled a brand new, state of the art creative studio on the campus of Central State University. The HBCU located in Wilberforce, OH was the first stop on Walmart’s Black and Unlimited HBCU Tour.

  /  11.28.2023

16 best hip hop video games of all time

From Def Jam: Vendetta, Wu-Tang: Shaolin Style, DJ Hero and more, we list our favorite hip hop videos games of all time. Did yours make the cut? 

  /  11.06.2023

DDG has his sights set on becoming a fashion hero & talks Halle Bailey being his "best friend"

In this exclusive interview, DDG opens up about his fashion inspiration, what drew him to girlfriend Halle Bailey, dealing with negative opinions about his relationship, and more. Read up!

  /  11.28.2023

17 rappers named after food to make you crave their music

Here’s a list of rappers who are named after food. Enjoy — or shall we say, “Bon appetit”? 

  /  11.21.2023

Former kid rappers we loved: Where are they now?

From taking over the playground to dominating the rap game, many young artists have made music history. Check them out and where their journeys have taken them here! 

  /  11.13.2023
View More
Revolt - New Episodes