Within the same month as their debut EP, “hello christ? i’m bout to sin again,” LA-based rap duo Flyana Boss isn’t slowing down anytime soon by the sound of their latest single, “Big One.” Released back-to-back with “Bitch Imma Star,” multi-instrumentalists Bobbi LaNea and Folayan Kunerede, who make up Flyana Boss, have been booked and busy all throughout 2023.
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Before they recently wrapped up their supporting slot for Janelle Monáe’s tour, they got a major co-sign when Missy Elliott hopped on the “You Wish” remix alongside rapper Kaliii. A play on fly boss, made to rhyme with Diana Ross, the two bring out the best out of each other on a track that matches their eccentric tendency to wear elf ears.
From the jump, the beat slaps you in the face and sends you back to the early days of hip-hop. Similar to other songs, Flyana Boss often harkens back to that era and reminds of 80s/90s groups like Kris Kross and Salt-N-Pepa, which is likely one of the reasons why Missy Elliott was drawn to them.
But rarely do their influences eclipse them, as the track is barely able to contain their big personalities punctuated by lines like “I don’t want him, on God / He a bugga boo” and “What type of dick you like? A big one” on the chorus. Though the lyrics might go against their vintage sound, it helps in distinguishing the two as rappers in their own lane rather than something closer to a tribute band.
While LaNea and Kunerede are from Detroit and Dallas, respectively, their continued collaborations make it seem as if they grew up together despite having met in L.A. while attending college. “We’re two best friends who make music together and we like to do it BIG,” both said on the making of “Big One.” Even though they only recently started getting traction when “You Wish” exploded on TikTok, they’ve always been ones to aim as high as they can, something that is sure to continue moving forward.
Words: David Sosa
“Big One” by Flyana Boss is out on all streaming services. For more on new music and live shows, follow them on Instagram, TikTok, and their website.
