Lil Nas X, the rapper known for hits like “Old Town Road” and “Industry Baby”, has been keeping busy with new music, fashion pursuits, and giving back to the LGBTQ+ community. Though only 23 years old, he has already accomplished a great deal and continues to find new ways to leave his mark on pop culture.
Releasing New Music
In September 2022, Lil Nas X released his new single “Star Walkin'” as part of a partnership with the online game League of Legends. The rapper said this marked the first time he has ever written a song for a video game. “Star Walkin'” represents Lil Nas X’s continued evolution as an artist, showing off his talent for catchy pop-rap melodies. The track’s slick futuristic production matches the science fiction theme of League of Legends. Though the song was made specifically for the game, it still charted on Billboard’s Hot 100 singles chart, proving Lil Nas X’s songs can find mainstream success even when tied to niche projects.
This was not the only new Lil Nas X music in 2022. In April, he dropped the single “Late to Da Party” which included a diss against rapper Nike over their failed “Satan Shoes” collaboration. Though Lil Nas X has found massive fame, he is not afraid to use his platform to call out companies and brands when he feels mistreated. The rapper’s willingness to speak out makes him a compelling and unique voice in hip-hop.
“Star Walkin'” and “Late to Da Party” are likely teasers leading up to Lil Nas X’s next full album release. His debut studio album “Montero” came out in 2021 and topped the charts, driven by hits like “Montero (Call Me By Your Name)”. Though Lil Nas X has not announced timing, he is surely hard at work on his sophomore record which will likely drop within the next year or two. Given the success of his first album, anticipation is high for new Lil Nas X music.
Focusing on Fashion
Beyond music, Lil Nas X is expanding his influences into the world of fashion. He has become known for his stylish, gender-bending outfits that challenge gender norms in the rap community. The “Old Town Road” singer has appeared in high fashion magazines like Vogue and W, showing off cutting-edge designer looks.
Additionally, Lil Nas X launched a collaboration with the streetwear brand MSCHF in 2021. Their “Satan Shoes”, featuring a pentagram and human blood, got Lil Nas X sued but demonstrated his interest in bold fashion statements. Though Nike denied involvement with the Satan Shoes, they did subsequently partner with Lil Nas X on a limited release of “Bronco” sneakers.
Most recently in September 2022 at the MTV Video Music Awards, Lil Nas X wore a dramatic feathered black cape on the red carpet. His unusual outfit stole the show and became one of the most talked about moments of the event. By taking fashion risks, Lil Nas X keeps all eyes on him and influences wider acceptance of gender fluidity through his style.
Advocating for the LGBTQ+ Community
As a prominent openly gay musician, Lil Nas X has used his mega-fame as a platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion. His music frequently celebrates being gay and rejects hiding one’s sexuality. The rapper’s commitment to advocacy has made him a cultural force and role model.
In 2021, Lil Nas X partnered with the suicide prevention group The Trevor Project, donating $500,000 to the nonprofit. He also collaborated with them on limited edition “Montero” album boxes, with funds going towards helping LGBTQ+ youth in need.
Lil Nas X has become a staunch critic of homophobia, calling out media outlets for discriminatory headlines about his dating life and music videos. For example, he feuded with rapper Boosie Badazz over his homophobic reactions to Lil Nas X’s sexuality. Lil Nas X even referenced the spat in his song “Industry Baby”. The young musician uses feuds like this to draw attention to prejudice.
One of Lil Nas X’s most powerful LGBTQ+ contributions was his 2021 “Satan Shoes” video which depicted him giving the devil a lapdance. The provocative video illustrated him embracing his sexuality despite critics trying to demonize homosexuality. By being unabashedly open about who he is, Lil Nas X pushes culture in a more progressive direction with regard to gay rights.
Pursuing Acting Opportunities
On top of music and fashion, Lil Nas X is also pursuing some acting roles as he expands the possibilities of his career. In 2022, it was announced that Lil Nas X will have a cameo in the upcoming Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson superhero film Black Adam. Details are sparse, but the chart-topping rapper will appear on screen alongside major stars like Johnson and Pierce Brosnan.
Acting represents exciting new ground for Lil Nas X as he branches out from music. Though just a cameo, this could lead to bigger parts down the road. Lil Nas X has already shown off his theatrical side in his elaborate music videos. Now he will have a chance to demonstrate these skills for a wider audience on the big screen. Look for the Black Adam movie, set to release in theaters in October 2022, to give Lil Nas X another major pop culture moment.
Giving Back Through Philanthropy
Giving back to the community and those in need has become a priority for Lil Nas X as his stardom has grown. In January 2022, the rapper announced he was donating some of the profits from his single “Industry Baby” to The Bail Project to help people get out of jail. Criminal justice reform is an important issue for Lil Nas X, and he uses his wealth to make a difference.
In June 2022, Lil Nas X took initiative after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade by partnering with the reproductive health organization Planned Parenthood. He announced he would donate $150,000 and give proceeds from a special song release to Planned Parenthood. Lil Nas X also encouraged fan donations with a online fundraising page.
Other charitable giving by Lil Nas X includes:
- Raising $500,000 for Elton John’s AIDS Foundation COVID-19 relief fund
- Donating to The Bail Project’s fund assisting arrested George Floyd protestors
- Partnering with the Christian youth organization Champions Club on a remix video
Though flashy in his music and wardrobe choices, Lil Nas X is committed to using his fame to support important social causes. His charitable work shows great maturity for such a young star.
Conclusion
Even at just 23 years old, Lil Nas X has already carved out an iconic spot in pop culture. However, he shows no signs of slowing down as he continues releasing catchy new singles, experimenting with bold fashion looks, advocating for the LGBTQ+ community, branching into Hollywood, and giving back charitably.
Lil Nas X proves artists can achieve mainstream success while remaining unapologetically true to who they are. His willingness to take risks makes him an inspirational voice for self-acceptance, inclusion and equality. No matter the medium, Lil Nas X inspires his diverse fanbase while also pushing society forward through his music and actions.