Alfredo Flores, award-winning D.C.-based freelance event photographer

PHOTO STORY

Hip-Hop's Brightest Meet Up at Merriweather

Photos by Alfredo Flores NBC 4 Washington's Around Town

Hip-hop stars including Big Boi, Busta Rhymes, Nas and Common took the stage during the Rock the Bells hip-hop fest at Merriweather Post Pavilion. Big Boi is a rapper, songwriter, record producer -- and, of course, he's best known as one half of the alternative hip-hop superstar duo Outkast. In contrast to his more sedate, philosophical partner André 3000, Big Boi's on-record and stage persona enjoys partying. Big Boi can be identified by his rapid-fire delivery, a style which has become more distinct since the album ATLiens. “Life is great right now," Big Boi told us. "My first solo album ('Sir Luscious Left Foot') is done. We’ve got a new label situation. It’s a whole tidal wave of new stuff coming out. Rock the Bells is the truest form of backpack rap that you can get to," Big Boi told us. "All of these guys are true lyrists, and are perfecting the art craft of hip-hop. Glad to be part of it all for the first time.” Big Boi talks of Outkast. His new album features the single "Lookin For Ya" with Andre 3000 and Sleepy Brown.