Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 13, 2024 8:24 am GMT
Indian rapper Hanumankind is making waves on the global music scene with his infectious track “Big Dawgs,” which has become a fan favorite and climbed the music charts in extraordinary fashion. As it echoes in stadiums and playlists alike, fans are increasingly asking: who is the artist behind this breakout hit?
Rapid Rise of “Big Dawgs”
Since its release, “Big Dawgs” has entered the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at an impressive No. 23. It has also claimed the top spot on the R&B/Hip-Hop Digital Song Sales chart. What began as a local sensation has quickly transformed into a global phenomenon, fueled by its vibrant music video and viral social media presence.
- The song has accumulated:
– 72 million official on-demand U.S. streams
– 288.5 million official on-demand global streams
Released on July 9, “Big Dawgs” is a collaboration between Hanumankind and producer Kalmi. The duo created the song during a casual Zoom session, where inspiration sparked instantly. Hanumankind recalls, “We didn’t want boundaries on us, and the minute [I heard the] beat, I was like, ‘Oh s–t.’”
The release of the song was strategically paired with a striking music video that showcased an Indian spectacle known as the “Well of Death,” where daredevil motorcyclists perform gravity-defying stunts, adding cultural depth and excitement to the track.
A Unique Background
Born Sooraj Cherukat in Kerala, India, Hanumankind’s journey began in a household constantly on the move due to family circumstances—his father worked in the oil sector, leading to various international relocations, including Nigeria and Dubai before landing in Houston, Texas. The eclectic mix of experiences has shaped his musical identity.
“Houston has a way of shaping a person,” he reflects. As a child, he absorbed the sounds of artists like UGK and DJ Screw, which would later influence his unique sound. Despite his passion for music, his family encouraged him to pursue a more traditional career path, leading him to jobs at Goldman Sachs and marketing agencies.
However, it was a performance at the NH7 Weekender Festival in late 2019 that ultimately reignited his passion for rap. “After that set, I was like, ‘This feels like something I can do.’” That moment set the stage for Hanumankind’s incredible rise, as he took a leap of faith into the music industry.
The Power of Social Media
Although India banned TikTok in 2020, the platform played a vital role in the song’s rise on the global stage. Over 1 million posts featuring “Big Dawgs” have surfaced on the app, drawing attention from beyond India’s borders. Hanumankind admits that initially, they were oblivious to the song’s viral success outside India.
“The reception to ‘Big Dawgs’ was different than any prior work,” he says. Prominent streamers and influencers reacted to the hit across various platforms, amplifying its reach. The track has not only gained traction on streaming services but also caught the attention of the NFL, being featured in promotional videos for teams like the San Francisco 49ers.
This association marks a pivotal moment for Hanumankind, as the exposure to a new audience significantly increases his fan base and potential for future collaborations.
The Future Awaits
With plans to expand his reach beyond India, Hanumankind has signed with Wasserman Music. He also intends to release a remix of “Big Dawgs” featuring an American rapper, showcasing his intention to further bridge his unique style with international audiences.
Projected into the spotlight, he is set to perform at India’s Lollapalooza in 2025 and is gearing up for his upcoming film, Rifle Club.
As he reflects on his accomplishments, he acknowledges the broader implications of his success, stating, “I am just the tip of the iceberg of what can come from this side of the world.”
Conclusion
Hanumankind’s explosive rise to fame with “Big Dawgs” serves as a reminder of the power of music to transcend borders and connect cultures. His journey from a self-proclaimed “child of chaos” to a global music sensation showcases the potential for dreams to materialize, no matter how distant they may seem.
The blend of his unique background, strategic collaborations, and the extensive reach of social media has positioned him as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. As the world tunes in, one thing is certain: the future looks bright for Hanumankind, and his story is just beginning to unfold.
With every beat and rhythm, he is not only sharing his own story but also speaking for millions of people who dream big. He shows that one person’s voice can start a big change.
