Vic Spencer is a rapper’s rapper who has been recognized by the late Sean P and the legendary Lupe Fiasco for his level of skill. His latest album Being The Bigger Person Sucks is a journey through his growth and personal revelations all while remaining his authentic self. The Chicago native brings the city with him on this latest release with a few notable collaborations. Rolling out spoke with Spencer about his album title, the rap scene in Chicago and what he wants people to take from this album.
Being The Bigger Person Sucks is an intriguing title. What inspired it, and what message do you hope it conveys to listeners?
I’ve been known to lash out on people that are against Vic Spencer. As of late, I’ve been cool, I’ve been content. When I do feel like crashing out, I tell myself “what’s something that I can do differently?” Sometimes it can take a toll on me because I grew up being outspoken. Not saying anything is the best answer and sometimes it can suck. Either way being a bigger person sucks because people will try to take advantage of a person that takes the road that is not normally taken. My message to the people would be to keep taking that high road because God made you who you are and most importantly protect your happiness.
The album title suggests a sense of frustration or reflection. How does this theme resonate throughout the tracks?
I feel like the tracks are set up to make you feel a way about yourself or just simply somebody that’s real as hell, sitting next to you having a conversation with you. I always look at my albums like they are therapists. I like for my albums to make people laugh, cry or be encouraged. I want that to resonate.
‘Evil Investments’ is personal to Vic Spencer
What track on this album is the most personal to you, and why?
“Evil Investments” is the most personal one. I talk about how my family was just chilling under some chandeliers because my sister just bought a quarter-million-dollar home, all of us growing up in DCFS, and how my dad relapsed some years ago and now is doing well.
“Evil Investments” is something that the [music] industry is invested in. Everything is about controversy. I’m just glad that I can get personal and not be corny about it.
The rap scene in Chicago is diverse and competitive. How do you carve out your own lane within it?
Being a standout has always encouraged me to stand side by side with some of the best Chicago artists. I don’t look at anybody as competition. I look at myself as an addition to what Chicago has to offer and I wish everyone felt the same way.
What do you hope listeners take away from Being The Bigger Person Sucks?
I hope they take away that Vic Spencer is a driven, outspoken individual.
What role has collaboration played in your career, and are there any standout collaborations on this album?
Collaboration has been like the USA Barcelona Team. Roc Marciano, Sean Price, IllaGhee, Ransom, Rome Streetz, Twista, Guilty Simpson and even the legend E.C. ILLA have been on my albums.
On this album, I have Traxster who has produced for Ye and Beyoncé, rapping on the same song with Buk of Psychodrama. Who’s really doing it like me?
What advice would you give to up-and-coming artists who look up to you and your journey?
Keep working and bring people into your world.
You can listen to Being The Bigger Person Sucks here.
