Latto graces the December cover of EBONY’s GRAMMY Preview issue, reflecting on her journey, latest album Sugar Honey Iced Tea, and beyond. Her mastery of blending arrogant lyricism with undeniable melody has once again landed her on the radar of the GRAMMYs. The rapper’s infectious single “Big Mama” has earned her a 2025 GRAMMY nomination for Best Melodic Rap Performance, a continuation of the momentum she built with 2022’s “Big Energy,” which was also nominated in the same category in 2023. The nomination solidifies Latto as a powerhouse in blending rap with pop sensibilities, crafting songs that dominate both the charts and social media.
Latto acknowledged the initial skepticism surrounding “Big Mama” in her EBONY cover story interview, noting, “My day one fans knew that I had been experimenting with singing and just melodic feeling stuff. But like my newer fans, because I had been on this like heavy rap tip for so long, I knew that it would feel like a switch-up to other people. But I knew I didn’t want to just allow myself to have that ceiling on me and my career. So, I knew what I was doing. And basically, it just goes to show you like you have to trust yourself and stick to the plan,” For Latto, the GRAMMY nomination serves as a validation of her artistic choices.
With “Big Mama,” Latto leaned into her signature melodic delivery, creating a track that is as radio friendly as it is confident. The single’s catchy hook, paired with her bold lyricism, underscored her ability to bridge the gap between pop and rap without diluting her raw energy. The song enjoyed robust radio airplay, securing her a place on playlists that cater to a broad demographic. On platforms like TikTok and Instagram, “Big Mama” inspired countless trends and dance challenges, further amplifying its reach and cultural impact.
“Big Mama” itself is a testament to Latto’s versatility. The first half of the track is rooted in R&B, featuring autotuned singing vocals that she used as a tool to convey seduction and intimacy. As the song progresses, the tempo switches up, transitioning into her signature bravado-filled delivery with sharp, unapologetic bars that exude confidence and defiance. This club staple’s dual structure highlights Latto’s ability to seamlessly switch between moods and styles, making the track both dynamic and engaging.
Latto’s duality as an artist—balancing mainstream appeal with her unapologetic persona—has been a key to her sustained success. In an era where rap often intersects with viral moments, her knack for crafting hooks that resonate beyond the airwaves has made her a standout. “Big Mama” captures this ethos perfectly, showcasing a sonic blend that feels both innovative and authentic.
