American-Albanian rapper Big Cruz is one of the most exciting new voices of Hip-Hop, that might just surprise you.

Hailing from the District of Columbia, Big Cruz has been able to find a way to showcase his unique suaveness without mimicking the typical trend chasing sounds throughout his time spent in the heart of NYC and his home country of Albania.

According to Cruz, his Albanian heritage has helped him build tougher skin than most when it comes to the music industry. His family had to flee his home country early in life due to a violent rebellion that left a country full of depression and damage. Though being raised in Washington, D.C. was all he’d know, his presence here was far from inevitable.

The aspiring DMV rapper grew up in the only Albanian family in a black neighborhood that was perfectly positioned between the federal monuments and the hood. Cruz’s parents didn’t speak a word of English, left to fend for and reinvent themselves in foreign territory.

Back in Albania, Big Cruz has been featured on national TV and radio, boosting his music to more national attention. Now, he is looking forward to this new single to reach the masses, but most importantly to showcase his ability to create radio friendly records.

Earlier this year, the rising young gunner dropped his anticipated new single entitled “The Realist,” which you can listen to below. Luckily, it does not seem like he will be slowing down anytime soon. His new record is just a big sign of what is to come.