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Lil Nas X has taken the music world by storm, blending genres and shattering records. From his viral hits to his deep cuts, he’s proven he’s not a one-hit wonder. Today, I’m diving into his discography to rank his albums, sharing my take on where each record stands in his groundbreaking career.
“Old Town Road” and the Rise of Lil Nas X
“Old Town Road” isn’t just a song—it’s a phenomenon. When I first heard the catchy blend of country and trap, I knew Lil Nas X had struck gold. But what really skyrocketed the track to unprecedented levels was its viral success on TikTok. It became an anthem, leading to Lil Nas X’s rise to fame practically overnight.
Lil Nas X’s strategic use of social media to promote “Old Town Road” demonstrated a mastery of digital marketing, showing artists everywhere that the right combination of content and platform can make a world of difference. The track didn’t just top charts; it shattered records. “Old Town Road” stayed at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for 19 consecutive weeks, making it the longest-running No. 1 single since the chart’s inception.
Here’s a quick rundown of the milestones “Old Town Road” achieved:
| Achievement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Consecutive weeks at No. 1 | 19 weeks |
| Certifications | 14x Platinum in the US |
| Spotify Global Streams | Over 2 billion |
Let’s not forget the remixes, which played a significant role in sustaining the song’s popularity. Bringing on Billy Ray Cyrus was a stroke of genius that bridged generations and genres, further solidifying the song’s crossover appeal.
As I delve deeper into Lil Nas X’s discography, it becomes clear that “Old Town Road” was more than just a hit; it was a trailblazer. It set the stage for an artist who’s not afraid to take risks and defy expectations. The ability to blend and bend genres came to define Lil Nas X’s musical style, and his subsequent albums have continued to push boundaries, earning critical acclaim and a loyal fan base along the way.
Lil Nas X’s trailblazing spirit is evident in every track he releases, from the rebellious “Panini” to the introspective “Sun Goes Down”. His courage to explore and express himself wholly through his music has become an inspiration to many, proving that authenticity can resonate just as strongly as a catchy beat.
Debuted Mixtapes: “Nasarati” and “The Homie Tape”
Before earning his stripes with “Old Town Road,” I explored the roots of Lil Nas X’s career, which began with his debut mixtapes. Lil Nas X’s initial musical offerings, “Nasarati” and “The Homie Tape,” were impactful steps towards his eventual mainstream breakthrough.
“Nasarati,” a nod to the luxury car brand Maserati, was released in 2018. It showcased Lil Nas X’s early sound and penchant for blending genres. Even then, his experimental mix of hip-hop beats with non-traditional rap elements was evident. Tracks like “Carry On” and “Sonic Shit” hinted at his ability to create evocative music that could resonate with a broad audience.
Following “Nasarati,” “The Homie Tape” dropped. This mixtape was a collection that further developed his musical identity. It brimmed with raw energy and a DIY ethos that would charm fans and critics alike. I was struck by the creative ambition behind tracks such as “Thanos (Blow It)”—a showcase of his infectious hooks and confident delivery long before his breakout success.
These early works reflect Lil Nas X’s hustle and foresight in understanding the digital landscape. While not commercially as successful as future releases, the mixtapes were crucial in building a foundation for his career. They allowed him to extrapolate on what his listeners enjoyed and provided the groundwork for his viral success on platforms like TikTok.
As I continued to delve into the discography of Lil Nas X, I noticed how these mixtapes were instrumental to his artistic growth. Even without the polish of his later work, there was no denying the raw talent and vision that would soon catapult him into stardom. “Nasarati” and “The Homie Tape” are more than just precursors—they’re solid pieces of Lil Nas X’s story, showcasing an artist on the verge of reshaping the music scene.
Debut Studio Album: “Montero”
Following an iconic rise to stardom, I was particularly intrigued by Lil Nas X’s first full-length offering, “Montero,” dropped in September 2021. The album is a bold statement, encapsulating the essence of his unapologetic approach to both artistry and personal expression. “Montero,” named after Lil Nas X’s own birth name, Montero Lamar Hill, is far more than just a collection of tracks; it’s an introspective journey that delves into his struggles, triumphs, and unvarnished truths.
The project features an eclectic mix of collaborations, highlighting his versatility and keen ability to bridge genres. Artists like Jack Harlow on the punchy hit “Industry Baby” and Miley Cyrus in a more introspective “Am I Dreaming” give the album a dynamic edge. With “Montero,” Lil Nas X explores themes of identity, vulnerability, and fame with a masterful storytelling flair that’s both personal and profoundly relatable.
The lead single “Montero (Call Me By Your Name)” stands out as a cultural phenomenon, marking a significant moment in not just Lil Nas X’s career, but for the music industry as a whole. Its unashamedly candid lyrics and groundbreaking visuals pushed boundaries, igniting conversations worldwide and solidifying Lil Nas X as a force within the music scene. The song’s success is just one testament to the album’s overall influence.
Marketing for the album was as unconventional as Lil Nas X’s approach to music, employing a mix of humor, social commentary, and authenticity that turned traditional promotional strategies on their head. Viral moments and strategic partnerships kept the conversation going, demonstrating the power of his online presence and willingness to leverage it in innovative ways.
“Montero” is more than impressive stats and chart-topping singles. It’s an intricate tapestry of sounds that range from pop anthems to soul-bearing ballads. Each track offers a different hue to the complex picture that is Lil Nas X, painting the portrait of an artist who’s not only reshaping his image but also the expectations of an entire industry.
Collaborations and Features
Collaborations often serve as a crucible for innovation in the music space, and Lil Nas X has proven adept at handpicking collaborators to magnify his creative vision. From established names to burgeoning talents, my deep dive into his discography reveals an artist with a knack for unexpected but fruitful pairings. Below, we’ll unpack the significance of collaborations on Lil Nas X’s projects and how they’ve contributed to his musical journey.
Montero was a constellation of star-studded features that lent panache to an already radiant album. “Industry Baby,” a rambunctious anthem with Jack Harlow, became the soundtrack to countless viral moments and showed how synergistic collaborations could amplify the reach of a hit record. “Dollar Sign Slime,” featuring Megan Thee Stallion, brought a different texture to the album with its playful grit, bearing witness to Lil Nas X’s ability to blend genres seamlessly.
Another standout moment in Lil Nas X’s collaborative history came with the track “Montero (Call Me By Your Name) – SATAN’S EXTENDED VERSION” featuring none other than the legendary Elton John. The pairing of Elton John’s timeless artistry with Lil Nas X’s contemporary touch was a bold statement, bridging generational gaps in music fandom.
- Key Collaborations on “Montero”
- Industry Baby – with Jack Harlow
- Dollar Sign Slime – with Megan Thee Stallion
- Montero (Call Me By Your Name) – SATAN’S EXTENDED VERSION – with Elton John
Exploring the role of each collaborator, it’s evident that Lil Nas X thrives when bouncing ideas off artists who contribute unique perspectives. His ability to mesh with various musical styles while maintaining his distinct persona is nothing short of impressive. This extends to remixes and live performances, where he’s joined forces with artists across different genres, exposing his music to diverse audiences. The imprint of each feature on his body of work is indelible, reinforcing his status as a versatile and adaptive force in the industry.
EPs and Other Projects
Before “Montero” skyrocketed him to new heights, I was captivated by Lil Nas X’s modest beginning with his EP “7.” Released in June 2019, “7” showcased a blend of musical styles that signaled Nas X’s versatility as an emerging artist. “Old Town Road” found its first home on this EP, but tracks like “Panini” and “Rodeo” also helped carve his niche in the music scene. Here’s a breakdown of standout tracks from “7” that shouldn’t be overlooked:
- Panini: An earworm that hooked listeners with its catchy chorus.
- Rodeo ft. Cardi B: A genre-bending fusion, marrying hip-hop with country vibes.
Though not as commercially successful as his debut album, “7” laid the foundation for Lil Nas X’s genre-fluid approach that would become a hallmark in his subsequent work.
In addition to his EP, Lil Nas X has shown an impressive knack for collaboration and singles that keep his sound fresh and in the public consciousness. From teaming up with Nas for the remix of “Rodeo” to dropping standalone singles like “Holiday”, which offered a festive twist to his discography, Lil Nas X ensured that his music remained an ever-present force within the industry. The savvy use of social media to tease new music and engage with fans plays a vital role in sustaining momentum between major releases.
My fascination with Lil Nas X’s projects extends to his clever music videos and strategic releases. Tracks like “Sun Goes Down” broke ground with poignant narratives and stunning visuals, underlining the importance of storytelling in his brand. Each project and single acts as another chapter in Lil Nas X’s rapidly unfolding career, with his bold artistic spirit weaving through every beat and lyric.
By valuing innovation over convention, it’s clear that Lil Nas X’s EPs and one-off projects are as integral to his artistry as his studio albums. They form stepping stones that track his progression as an artist willing to take risks and push boundaries. Each release, whether it’s an EP, a remix, or a single, furthers the narrative of an artist who’s unafraid to redefine genres and forge his own path in music history.
Conclusion
Lil Nas X’s journey from a viral sensation to a boundary-pushing artist is nothing short of remarkable. His EP “7” not only highlights his adaptability but also cements his place in the music industry as a fearless innovator. Whether it’s through catchy singles or strategic collaborations, he’s proven that he’s here to stay. His work is a testament to the power of embracing one’s uniqueness and the magic that happens when an artist refuses to be boxed into a single genre. Keep an eye on Lil Nas X – he’s bound to surprise us with whatever he drops next.