Sammie Benson, a.k.a. Blac Youngsta, is a rapper in the truest sense of the word. The 27-year-old from Memphis says that when he is recording new tunes or on stage presenting his songs he feels every word in his heart because he has actually lived most of them.

Benson’s story is one of a hard childhood, perseverance, and an eventual success story. Now he wants to share his experiences with his fans and show them that if he can make it, they can too. To add to the authenticity, Blac Youngsta has even been known to bring the subjects of his songs into the studio with him, like holding a wad of cash when he is talking about money or actually holding a gun when dealing with issues involving firearms.

Signed to Yo Gotti’s CMG label in early 2016, based on the popularity of his independently released single “Heavy,” Blac Youngsta hasn’t looked back, putting on wild shows that are often better defined as big parties as he gets the audience moving, bouncing, and hanging on his every word. His single, “Booty,” a barebones anthem made up of a drum kit and 2 vocal samples, debuted at #73 on the Billboard Hot 100 and eventually peaked at #22. In typical Piere’s New Year’s Eve celebration tradition, the venue will have several VIP options available during the night and, of course, there will be a champagne toast at midnight for everybody. — Chris Hupe