When I met Lil Uzi Vert at the Roc Nation offices in New York City, he was dressed in an all-white ensemble that included a t-shirt from the cult Japanese label Skoloct, paired with white jeans and a beanie emblazoned with the word “Them” in gothic lettering. This meeting took place just two days before the highly anticipated release of his latest album, “Eternal Atake 2,” which serves as a sequel to his coveted 2020 album.
Uzi describes the new project as a “return to form,” following his last album, “Pink Tape,” which saw him exploring a variety of sounds, including metalcore. He believes his experimental approach last year has culminated in a cleaner, 16-track album that showcases the quintessential vocal style that has made him a pivotal figure in the early SoundCloud scene. Expressing enthusiasm for this new era, Uzi said, “I feel really confident about this one… it was about realizing what artistry got me here and returning to my roots.”
As he reflects on his career, Uzi acknowledges the significance of his influence over the past nine years, especially on younger artists. He recalls the early days when he was more focused on personal milestones like attending prom, contrasting it with the massive online fanbase he has now, which includes numerous leaks of his music. Currently, he claims that as much as 80 percent of what his fans enjoy consists of unreleased leaks, though he is working to provide music more consistently moving forward.
At the age of 29, Uzi stands at the forefront of the rap genre, having cultivated a vibrant community of fans and peers. He recounts the support he received from fellow artist Yeat during a recent stay in rehab, emphasizing the importance of friendship in navigating life’s challenges. With “Eternal Atake 2,” he has reconnected with the energetic creativity of his origins, which he attributes to a newfound maturity and diligent work ethic.
Uzi’s thoughts on collaboration reveal a more self-sufficient approach; with “Eternal Atake 2,” he primarily focused on his own artistry, although he did reach out to the boy band Big Time Rush for a contribution to the album, a collaboration born out of genuine admiration from his childhood.
In a nostalgic trip down memory lane, Uzi fondly remembers the moments leading up to his rise in the music industry. Prom night, for example, now appears to him as a cherished memory before fame enveloped his life. He acknowledges the awkwardness of being young and feeling the weight of expectations as he transitioned into music.
Discussing the impact of past experiences, particularly his time in rehab, Uzi emphasizes transparency and self-honesty as vital components of personal growth. As he approaches his 30th birthday, he adopts a positive outlook, equating age with accomplishment and promise for the future, particularly in relation to his burgeoning family and career.
His newfound focus is evident in his creative process for the new album. Uzi describes the refreshing feeling of pouring his heart into new tracks, overcoming past hurdles, and embracing critical feedback from fans and media alike. He acknowledges the pressures of a public persona, but he strives to maintain authenticity amid scrutiny.
Uzi’s perspective on the evolving landscape of music is particularly telling. He expresses excitement about bridging the gap between his roots and the current state of the music industry. He anticipates a steady flow of new releases, suggesting a rejuvenated creative spirit. He has even confirmed plans to tour, aiming to elevate live performances into a unique visual experience that melds high fashion with everyday life.
With “Eternal Atake 2” on the horizon, there is a palpable sense of anticipation for both fans and critics alike. Lil Uzi Vert’s journey continues to evolve, characterized by resilience and creativity that promise to redefine his legacy while still cherishing the roots that launched him into stardom. This continued growth serves as an encouraging reminder for artists everywhere of the power of reinvention and staying true to one’s artistic foundation.