Exploding onto the scene as a comedy content creator, Plumpiana has evolved into a prolific rapper and now singer… and is a vital champion of NYC’s indie music scene.
Thotyssey: Plumpiana, hello! How is 2026 treating you so far?
Plumpiana: 2026 it’s looking bright. I have two shows coming up: one’s January 17 this Saturday, and the next will be Wednesday, January 28 at SOB’s in New York City. So far, 2026 is looking great.
You also just dropped a fun new track, “Not My Type (PSQ)!” What can you tell us about the inspo behind that track? How long did it take from writing to recording it, and what’s the average time it takes with that process for you?
OMG yes! “Not My Type (PSQ) ” is my new single, which is inspired by being (of course) a plus size queen. I wrote this song in 2025, around the spring time. The process of writing this song was not long; I feel like it was just a day recording. It was like probably a two day process, because it was different from what I’ve done before. I’m actually singing, so I had to work on that a little bit more. The average song for me takes about two days or less… a week if I’m really going for a theme and I wanna be perfection. But I do like to write before I get in the studio; it’s rare that I freestyle on the spot when I’m making an intentional track.
As someone who’s gained a huge following with indie rap, what made you want to try singing this time around? And might it be a sign for things to come with your releases?
Growing up, I always wanted to be a singer. I used to be eight years old writing songs, R&B songs in my notebook. So as I’m growing in my artistry, I decided to try something new and to try singing on some of my tracks. I’m really good at writing hooks, and I wanted to give it a try. I also really love movies, and I wanted to create songs that can be soundtracks for movies. Definitely stay tuned for something different on this tape that’s coming out. It’s giving artist, not just rapper.
Where are you from originally, and who were some of your favorite musical artists growing up?
Originally, I was born in Montgomery, Alabama. I moved to New York City when I was three years old. Some of my favorite artists growing up were mainly R&B artists like Ashanti, Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige and Jordin Sparks. I also really loved Bow Wow, like, I was a crazy Bow Wow fan. When it came to rap, I definitely loved Missy Elliott, Eve, Lil’ Kim and Trina — like, all the classic women in hip-hop, love them all. I also had a very soft spot for the Jonas Brothers! I used to have them posted on my wall. I used to love all their songs as well.
I must ask, as you’re a rapper with a queer following: do you feel super betrayed by the recent shenanigans of Nicki Minaj?
It feels weird that she would purposely turn on her most important fanbase. I’m wishing this was all a joke; it honestly hurts. I’m here for the Barbs if they need a new queen. They can come be #TeamPlumpi.
Was it a nerve-wracking time when you started performing your own stuff live, or just totally joyful?
It honestly was the highlight of my life. I have been performing since middle school. I was a cheerleader, and in high school I was a part of a dance team; I actually was captain. In college I was a part of a dance company, and helped start a recognized dance group on campus. I have always loved acting and fashion, so getting on stage was like putting all my passions together. It made me feel like myself; it made me feel alive. It’s where I belong.
What’s your favorite Plumpiana track so far?
It’s so hard to choose my favorite. I really love “Life of the Party” because it’s like an anthem. But my favorite of all time would have to be “Plump Room” — it gives hip hop and R&B — which I love — and sexy vibes, which is my thing.
What are the joys and challenges of being an independent recording artist today?
Being an indie artist is satisfying when you get those wins, but it’s also very stressful when you have no team or no PR or no manager. Sometimes it’s difficult trying to navigate through the noise, the fake emails, etc. I love having creative control though, and being able to use my friends and community in my projects. I have a Bachelors Degree in mass communication, so this is basically what I studied — how to create content on the internet, and gain an organic following from it. So I get to put those skills to use, which I’m very grateful for.
You have a strong following on social media, and even an IG fan account! Can you pinpoint a moment when you really started to pop big time online?
After I graduated college in 2017, I went to LA as a trip for getting my BS… and for some reason, people thought I was famous in LA. I woke up in my Airbnb the next morning to 10k followers. I had been posting photos of me in my plus size fits. Next thing I know, I am getting messages to be a Nova Babe, and companies were reaching out to me to model their clothes. I also use to make a lot of funny content with me dancing or doing skits, which helped me grow my following even more back then; my IG name was Yesihavebigb00bs.
You often perform and collaborate with a crew of indie musicians here in NYC who are all prolific in their own rights — folks like Jayse Vegas, Josh Lumsden, Robert Garcia, Christopher Ambrose, Thee Queen Princess, etc. Do you recall how you hooked up with all of them?
Yes, I love them all so much. I was introduced to Jayse and Robert Garcia by Gab Rydelle and from there I met everyone. After that I was asked to perform for Jayse’s set called “House Party” at a queer bar in Chelsea. From then on, it was history. I found my people, and began performing all over the city — manly for queer venues and audiences. Me and Josh Lumsden met at an event by Gab Rydelle; we were on the same lineup, and then we starting talking and making music together. He is so talented.
You’re going to be joining several of these artists and others for a special show at Fresco’s Grand Cantina in Astoria this Saturday: “Live Frequency!”
Yes, I’m excited! I’ve done a set at Fresco’s before; the vibe is vibrant and fun. You can expect for me to perform four songs including my new single, and I may be having a special guest performing a song I have a feature with.
And Wednesday the 28th is your show at SOB’s, an iconic and historic SoHo music venue.
Yes, this will be my second time performing at SOB’s. This time around will be different, because it’s curated by the amazing V-Henny. This showcase gives artists the opportunity to be interviewed, to network and support other amazing artists in NYC. I’m bringing out my dancers for this showcase, and I’m super excited to show the crowd what Plumpiana does.
Amazing! Is there anything else coming up for you?
By spring my tape PLUMPILIOUS will be dropping, and some more visuals. So expect to see me all over your feeds.
Can’t wait! And finally, what’s a piece of advice about being an indie music artist that you maybe wish someone had given you early on?
I would say, be your biggest fan and supporter. You have to advocate for yourself. Get used to doing research in marketing, and learning to sell yourself properly to brands.
Thanks, Plumpiana!
Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Plumpiana’s upcoming appearances, and follow her on Instagram, TikTok, AllMyLinks and her website.
Thotyssey 