When I met with Lil Uzi Vert at the Roc Nation offices in New York City, he was dressed in an all-white outfit, which included a t-shirt from the popular Japanese brand Skoloct, white jeans, and a matching beanie that featured the word “Them” in gothic lettering. Just two days prior to the release of his new album, “Eternal Atake 2,” Uzi expressed his excitement and confidence in what he described as a return to his artistic roots.
The rapper, now 29 years old, reflected on his journey since the launch of his first mixtape, “Luv is Rage,” which coincidentally marks its ninth anniversary during our meeting. He shared that his previous album, “Pink Tape,” allowed him the freedom to explore new sounds, including metalcore, paving the way for the clean, 16-track project that is EA 2. Uzi stated, “I’m feeling really confident about this one,” highlighting his desire to reconnect with the style that initially brought him success.
In recent years, Uzi has also considered his legacy and influence on the music scene. He acknowledges the evolution of his career alongside a devoted young fanbase and admits that a significant portion of his music success comes from leaks—not an ideal situation, but one he has learned to manage better. Uzi has focused on moving forward, ensuring that he can consistently produce and share his music.
The rapper has kept up with the new generation of artists that he has helped inspire. He mentioned his friendship with breakout star Yeat, who was supportive during Uzi’s time in rehab last year. “When I first got out of rehab, he was one of the first people to come see me,” Uzi recalled.
For “Eternal Atake 2,” Uzi has returned to his musical roots, paired with a renewed work ethic. The promotion of the album has gone smoothly, showcasing his growth as an artist who is committed to delivering quality music. Uzi declined to focus on collaborations, emphasizing that this album is primarily about him and his artistic journey, though he did involve Big Time Rush for a special contribution.
As he transitions into his 30s, Uzi reflects on personal growth and shares his outlook on life, highlighting the importance of honesty in navigating success and challenges. He shows a deep appreciation for his fans, and despite the pressures of fame, he aims to retain a sense of humility and connection with them.
Uzi anticipates an exciting future for his music career, hinting at more frequent releases ahead. He is gearing up for a tour as well, wanting to create a live experience that merges high fashion with everyday life, suggesting an engaging and immersive spectacle for his audience.
In summary, Lil Uzi Vert’s upcoming album “Eternal Atake 2” marks a significant moment of maturity for the artist, as he embraces his past while looking forward to a bright future filled with more music and interaction with his fans. His reflections demonstrate a thoughtful approach to artistry, showcasing growth and a desire to connect with his roots. With the excitement of a new album and a planned tour, Uzi continues to be a driving force in the music world, inspiring both fans and fellow artists alike.