Hartford Artist First R.O.M.E Talks New Single “Big Meech,” His Journey and What’s Next
Hartford artist First R.O.M.E is bringing listeners into his world with his new single and official visual, “Big Meech.” Representing Hartford’s North End, the singer and rapper has developed a versatile sound rooted in ambition, authenticity and real-life experiences.
First R.O.M.E describes himself as “Mr. Make It Happen”—a laid-back artist with a relentless hustle who always finds a way forward. On “Big Meech,” he speaks about taking risks, traveling, handling business and helping the people around him succeed.
The visual expands that story by combining scenes filmed in Connecticut and California, reflecting the road-running lifestyle behind the record.
First R.O.M.E on His Hartford Roots, Musical Journey and “Big Meech”
In this exclusive Q&A with 2TYME Media, First R.O.M.E discusses the meaning behind his name, growing up in Hartford, the creation of “Big Meech” and his plans before entering album mode.
For people discovering you for the first time, who is First R.O.M.E, what part of Hartford are you from, and how would you describe yourself?
First R.O.M.E: I’m the man who makes it happen—Mr. Make It Happen, for real. I’m a cool, laid-back guy with hustle. Without a doubt, I always find a way. I’m from the North End of Hartford.
What does the name First R.O.M.E mean, and how does it represent you as an artist?
First R.O.M.E: First R.O.M.E stands for “Real One Made Empyreal.” I grew up in a church family, so before I really started making music, I was trying to find a name for myself that resonated with me.
When did you begin making music, and when did you decide to take your career seriously?
First R.O.M.E: I first started making music around 2016. At that time, it was mainly for fun and on a party-banger vibe with FNS. I would say 2019 was when I fully started taking my career seriously.
How has growing up in Hartford influenced your music, perspective and work ethic?
First R.O.M.E: Growing up in Hartford makes you want to fit in, and it makes you choose whether you’re going to follow everyone else or take your own path. I chose to take my own path.
I connect with a lot of people, and a lot of people show me love back, but respectfully, I don’t want to be like everybody else. That’s why I do things differently, work harder and make sure my sound is different—even from what people typically expect from Connecticut.
I usually spend about three to five hours in the studio. Most of my music is written beforehand because I like to walk into the studio ready.
The Real-Life Inspiration Behind First R.O.M.E’s “Big Meech”
What inspired “Big Meech,” and what does the title represent within the song?
First R.O.M.E: My life inspired it. I’m taking risks every day and doing some of the things that an entrepreneur like him was known for—hitting the road, getting things done and helping others along the way.
I’m not the only one shining; the people around me are getting to it, too. I’m on the road more than I’m anywhere else. I’m a real road runner.
How did “Big Meech” come together with producer Bayrodoit?
First R.O.M.E: Bayrodoit sent me a few beats, and I liked the vibe of this one instantly. It had a certain energy to it. I was also coming off a good month financially, so the song gave me the opportunity to speak about what I was living and what I was seeing around me.
What was the concept behind the music video, and how did you and ShotbyPradi bring it to life?
First R.O.M.E: We wanted to switch things up for this video. I booked ShotbyPradi a flight to California, and we went up while we were out there. We also filmed some scenes in Connecticut.
The purpose was to show that I’m really on the road, taking trips and living what I’m talking about. I wanted to give people a glimpse into my life without revealing too much.
Why did “Big Meech” feel like the right record to release at this stage of your career?
First R.O.M.E: With everything I have going on, it honestly felt like the perfect time. It’s a hot song, and the words immediately catch your attention.
There are a lot of entrepreneurs out there who can relate to what I’m saying, whether they admit it or not. If you know, you know—motion speaks for itself. Every time I release something, I’m setting the bar higher.
What Separates First R.O.M.E in Connecticut’s Music Scene?
What separates you from other artists coming out of Hartford and the broader Connecticut music scene?
First R.O.M.E: I’m different overall, from the way I carry myself to how I speak to people. I show love to everybody, but I don’t do anything fake—you get what you give with me. I also don’t talk about the same things that a lot of other artists talk about all the time.
My sound is different, too. Not many artists are singing and rapping or showing the level of versatility that I bring. None of this happened overnight. I’ve experienced a lot of growth and made several changes throughout my career, and I’m still learning along the way.
I’ve also worked with major artists such as OT7 Quanny and C Stunna.
What should listeners expect from you after “Big Meech”?
First R.O.M.E: Listeners should definitely expect more visuals. I’m thinking about releasing three more videos before I get into album mode because I want to build more traction first.
I also have several features coming out. I’m open to working with artists who have different sounds and fan bases so we can introduce each other to new audiences and turn one another up.
First R.O.M.E Is Preparing for His Next Chapter
“Big Meech” captures where First R.O.M.E currently stands: moving with purpose, expanding beyond Connecticut and raising the standard with each release. Rather than rushing into an album, the Hartford artist plans to continue building momentum through more visuals, strategic collaborations and consistent releases.
Watch the official “Big Meech” visual above and follow First R.O.M.E on Instagram at @1st.rome for upcoming music and announcements.
About 2TYME Media
2TYME Media is a Connecticut-based independent media platform covering emerging artists, music, culture, entertainment and news throughout Connecticut and beyond. Through exclusive interviews, original articles and event coverage, 2TYME Media documents the people and stories helping shape the region’s growing creative scene.
Follow @2tymemedia on Instagram and visit 2TYME.com for more Connecticut music and culture coverage.
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