BIG T AND THE BADA BINGS

Craig Thompson, better known as “Big-T,” has a reputation for doing things in a mighty big way. The former sumo wrestler who used to tip the scales at 400 pounds has since reinvented himself as a singer and bandleader, performing to packed houses across the country and overseas.

Big-T began his singing career in 2000, and quickly won over a devoted audience around the globe. Together with his 21-piece orchestra, The Bada-Bings, Big-T lets loose a high-octane blend of Vegas swing and classic rock with a big band sound. In 2001, Thompson had the honor of performing at Queen Elizabeth’s Golden Jubilee in London, while back in the States, he was invited to play the Gator Bowl in Florida for New Year’s Eve. He continues to perform across the U.S. with his Dallas-based orchestra at charity galas, private parties and exclusive corporate functions.

Born to be Wild, the band’s first CD, showcases Thompson’s amazing vocal range, as he covers genres ranging from swingin’ Vegas jazz to classic rock, blues, ’60s soul and romantic ballads. The critically acclaimed album has proven a hit with his fans, and has been nominated for Best Album of the Year by the Swing Awards.

Big T’s life story is super-sized too. Thompson has been a radio deejay, a 3rd class Petty Officer in the Navy, a Sumo wrestler in Japan, and an undercover narcotics officer. In 1997, he underwent gastric bypass surgery and lost 200 pounds. To celebrate his new life, he took up skydiving, and has made more than 100 jumps. For his most recent stunt, Thompson spent nine days and nights camped out on a billboard on LBJ Expressway in Dallas as a publicity stunt to promote his new CD. Today, Thompson is truly living his dream of being a “big” entertainer.