Houston's rap scene is alive and well and Big Pokey is a prominent player. "It's all about H-Town," says Big Pokey. "It's our time to shine and we are going to represent our home to the fullest." Big Pokey grew up in Houston's Third Ward. He is a graduate of Jack Yates High School and Blinn College in Brenham, Texas. An athlete, Big Pokey played football in high school and college. He was part of district and national championship teams, respectively. Big Pokey has transferred that excellence on the field to excellence in his craft. Recently, the owner of a competing local label said if he had to name one rapper from Houston with star potential, it would be Big Pokey. Big Pokey's life experience is not typical of most rappers. He did not pass through the "school of hard knocks" before getting serious about life. "I've really been blessed and I'm thankful for that." Big Pokey credits his Mother's unconditional love and no-nonsense approach to life. His father died when he was 10 years old but Pokey also had the support of loving grandparents and his sister, 17 years his senior. Big Pokey's first two projects, The Hardest Pit in the Litter and Da' Game 2000, experienced successful regional releases. Both CDs were in Houston's Top 10 and sold 80,000 plus copies each with limited availability in retail stores. With hypnotic grooves and Pokey's ability to draw vivid portraits with his lyrics, no wonder fans keep coming back for more. This is not Pokey's first rapping experience. He was a member of the famous Screwed Up Click and knew DJ Screw for many years prior to his death. Other Click members included Li'l KeKe, K.K., Hawk, Mike D and Fat Pat. The Click dropped verses on several of Screw's tapes. Following an unproductive relationship with his former label and professional representation, Big Pokey realized the importance of professional planning, marketing and legal counsel. Big Pokey sought the advice of his big sister. "She's always been there for me. She's attended many football games and still knows nothing about the sport, but she supports me and this time was no different." Seeking to exercise more control over managing and planning his career, Big Pokey formed MobStyle Management, Inc., in early spring, 2001. By August 2001, MobStyle and Big Pokey were signed with Wreckshop Records. The result … a compilation album in stores now and a solo album due out soon. "I'm very proud to be a member of the Wreckshop family," says Big Pokey. "Everyone gives 100 percent."