Dallas rapper BigXthaPlug was arrested just hours after releasing his country-inspired new album, I Hope You’re Happy.
The rapper, born Xavier Landum, was taken to the Dallas County Jail early Friday morning (Aug. 22) on charges of marijuana possession (less than two ounces) and unlawful possession of a firearm, according to CBS News.
He posted $5,000 bond and was released later the same day.
When he walked out of jail Friday afternoon, the 27-year-old wanted the focus to be on his music, not his case.
“We are going to fight robustly for our client because it just is what it is,” his attorney, Valerie Baston, told reporters.
Baston added, “It’s two misdemeanors, and they are trying to make it a felony.”
A Traffic Stop Turns Into an Arrest
Police said BigXthaPlug was pulled over late Thursday night (Aug. 21) for driving a truck without a front license plate.
During the stop, he reportedly admitted to officers he had a firearm in the vehicle. Officers also reported finding a small amount of marijuana in the truck.
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This isn’t his first run-in with the law — BigXthaPlug was arrested on similar charges in 2022.
From Release Party to Jail
The arrest occurred the same night he was scheduled to celebrate the release of I Hope You’re Happy with fans.
BigXthaPlug had appearances lined up in Dallas, including a party at Cash Cow nightclub and another event on Friday at Wingstop.
‘This Album’s My Heart’
I Hope You’re Happy arrived Friday (Aug. 22) with 11 tracks and collaborations with some of country music’s biggest names, including Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, Darius Rucker, Shaboozey, Thomas Rhett and Ella Langley.
“This album’s my heart, my story — the love, the loss, the heartbreak, the grind,” BigXthaPlug said in a press release.
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He added, “I wanted people to experience it all with me, the highs, the lows, the real life that defines you. I Hope You’re Happy is me blendin’ my urban roots and country soul, telling my story straight up, just me.”
Looking Ahead
For now, BigXthaPlug is facing new legal challenges as his album makes its debut. But if you ask him, the spotlight should stay on the music.
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Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes
