Big Ro6 “Rolling” Review: The New King of Hood Shanty Rap

Big Ro6 is Back: Why “Rolling” is the Nautical Rap Anthem We Didn’t Know We Needed

If you spent any time on TikTok over the last year, you’ve probably heard a voice that sounds like a 17th-century ship captain who grew up in the middle of Indianapolis. That’s Big Ro6.

After “Decisions” basically broke the internet with its “Hood Shanty” energy, the Naptown native is proving he’s not a one-hit-wonder. His new single “Rolling,” from the freshly dropped Street Shanties album, is a masterclass in how to be weird, gritty, and incredibly catchy all at once.

The “Pirate Rap” Phenomenon

Let’s be real: on paper, mixing sea shanties with street rap sounds like a disaster. But Big Ro6 makes it feel natural. “Rolling” isn’t a gimmick; it’s a vibe.

The track hits you with that signature melodic “ditty” flow—it’s rhythmic, it’s theatrical, and it’s got a swing to it that makes you want to grab a drink (or a sword). But once the 808s kick in, you remember exactly where you are. He’s taking the “choppy waters” of his life and turning them into a high-stakes anthem about momentum and survival.

Why “Rolling” is Taking Over

While other artists are busy copying the same “Type Beat” sounds, Big Ro6 is out here carving his own lane. Here is why “Rolling” is sticking:

• That Flow: It’s impossible to get out of your head. You’ll find yourself humming the melody long after the song ends.

• The Cinematic Feel: There’s a reason his music was tied to the Sinners hype. “Rolling” feels big—like it belongs in a movie scene right before everything goes south.

• The Street Cred: Strip away the pirate comparisons, and you’ve still got a solid rapper with real stories. He’s talking about loyalty and the grind in a way that feels authentic, not manufactured.

The Verdict

Big Ro6 is currently one of the most interesting stories in hip-hop. He’s managed to take a viral “pirate” moment and turn it into a legitimate movement. “Rolling” is the standout track of the new album, and honestly? It’s a bop.

Whether you’re in it for the memes or the genuine lyricism, Big Ro6 is sailing toward the top of the charts, and he’s not slowing down for anyone.