Lil Uzi Vert

Uzi began their musical journey in 2010 after being inspired by a classmate’s freestyle. Initially performing under the name Sealab Vertical as part of a short-lived group called Steaktown, Woods eventually adopted the moniker Lil Uzi Vert, inspired by a friend who compared their fast-paced flow to a machine gun.

Their breakthrough came with the release of their debut EP, Purple Thoughtz Vol. 1, in 2014, a psychedelic-leaning, cloud rap-inspired project that later gained cult status. That same year, they released The Real Uzi, which caught the attention of producer Don Cannon. This led to a record deal with Atlantic Records under DJ Drama’s Generation Now imprint.

Uzi’s mainstream rise began in earnest with Luv Is Rage (2015), a commercial mixtape that received wide praise and introduced their high-energy sound to a broader audience. Their 2016 breakout single “Money Longer” from the Lil Uzi Vert vs. the World mixtape catapulted them into stardom, along with follow-up hits like “You Was Right.” Later that year, their feature on Migos’ “Bad and Boujee” helped the track reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

In 2017, Lil Uzi Vert released the global smash “XO Tour Llif3,” a moody anthem about heartbreak and mental health that became a cultural phenomenon, winning the MTV Video Music Award for Song of the Summer. The song anchored their debut studio album, Luv Is Rage 2, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and went on to achieve double platinum certification. That same year, Uzi was nominated for Best New Artist at the Grammy Awards.

Their sophomore album, Eternal Atake (2020), faced multiple delays but ultimately debuted atop the Billboard 200, affirming their staying power. Uzi followed that success with Pluto × Baby Pluto, a full-length collaboration with Future released later that year.

In 2023, Uzi dropped Pink Tape, their highly anticipated third solo studio album, which again debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200—marking their third consecutive solo No. 1 debut. The album featured the viral hit “Just Wanna Rock,” which cracked the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100 and further showcased their ability to blend hip-hop, rage beats, and dance energy.

Lil Uzi Vert’s influence extends beyond music into fashion and internet culture. With a fluid gender expression, nonconforming style, and fearless experimentation, they have become a symbol of creative freedom and rebellion in the modern rap landscape.