Is an OutKast Revival on the Horizon? Fans Might Be Disappointed
After an Outkast mini-reunion at one of Andre 3000's tour shows, many fans wonder if Andre 3000 and Big Boi are getting back together.
By Jasmine FranklinJune 21 2024, Published 12:00 p.m. ET
Outkast, the groundbreaking hip-hop duo from Atlanta, consists of André "Andre 3000" Benjamin and Antwan "Big Boi" Patton. Formed in 1992, they revolutionized the rap scene with their eclectic sound, blending Southern hip-hop with funk, jazz, and soul elements.
André's experimental approach and charismatic presence contrasted with Big Boi's sharp, rapid-fire delivery and streetwise sensibility.
Together, they created a dynamic and versatile partnership that pushed musical boundaries. Outkast's innovative style and thought-provoking lyrics earned them critical acclaim and a massive fan base, cementing their legacy as one of the most influential rap groups ever.
That's why fans were shocked the rap duo announced a hiatus in 2007 after nearly two decades of hits. Since the group's break, André 3000 has maintained a low profile but is currently touring for his latest album, "New Blue Album," a composition of instrumental woodwinds.
Unlike André 3000, Big Boi has been more in the public eye. He has worked on several entrepreneurial endeavors and appeared on television and in movies such as ATL. Big Boi also kicked off his this year.
So, are Andre 3000 And Big Boi getting back together?
Despite their individual pursuits, André 3000 and Big Boi have remained close. Their bond remains strong, as evidenced by Big Boi's recent support of André 3000's new venture. He showed up to one of André 3000's shows in March, giving fans a mini-reunion.
"Antwan [and] Andre Flutie Hoooooo #NewBlueSun," he captioned the video.
Additionally, during an interview with Bitter Southerner, André 3000 revealed that the friends remain close.
"You know, people always ask about me and Big Boi," he shared. "We cool, man. That’s my homie forever. We were friends before doing music."
Will there be another Outkast album?
Knowing the two are still close, many wonder if there will be another Outkast album. They last performed together in 2016, set at ONE Musicfest in Atlanta. However, the possibility of another Outkast album remains uncertain.
In a December interview with CBS Mornings, André 3000 addressed the topic and expressed doubts about the duo recording another album.
André 3000's current focus on solo projects, like "New Blue Sun," suggests that his artistic direction has shifted. Big Boi is supportive of his bandmate's shift.
André 3000 also expressed that rapping feels "inauthentic."
"It actually feels...sometimes it feels inauthentic for me to rap because I don’t have anything to talk about in that way. I’m 48 years old," he said. "And not to say that age is a thing that dictates what you rap about, but in a way, it does."
While a full-fledged Outkast reunion might not be on the horizon, fans still cherish the moments when André 3000 and Big Boi come together. Despite this, the duo's influence on hip-hop endures.
Their innovative contributions to music continue to inspire new generations of artists. Their impact on hip-hop and popular culture remains profound.
The friendship between André 3000 and Big Boi is a testament to their enduring bond. Fans continue to hold out hope, cherishing the legacy of one of hip-hop's most iconic duos.
The author’s content and opinions have not been pre-reviewed, approved or endorsed by Discover.