XXXTentacion has truly ridden a constantly tumultuous wave of controversy in is short-lived career. From dying his hair bleach grey to punching fans at shows, the 19-year-old rapper has effectively become one of the most talked about figures in music.
Initially making headlines for beefing with Drake, disturbing graphic details surrounding his domestic abuse charges began to emerge shortly after his debut album, 17, was released. XXXTentacion, has continued to release music, play shows and even sign a deal with Capitol music – in a social climate that is slowly beginning to further encourage victims of abuse to speak up, why was such a huge power in the industry happy to take him on board?
Over the weekend, X took to his Instagram story the other night to announce his departure from the world of music. Check it out.
X has garnered praise from the likes of Kendrick and Lauryn Hill – do we separate the art from the artist? Even acts like Lil Yachty, who are supposedly champions of the #wholesome lifestyle have displayed support for the rapper. Does hip-hop, or even just music, in general, need a figure of such distaste? Featuring on a song with Noah Cyrus (aged 17) is a clear music industry power play move – X has the hype that guarantees clicks. Despite a history of violence, partnering him with a young girl doesn’t seem immoral with such money at stake.
It’ll be interesting to see what happens next with X. He has legions of fans who’ll support him, despite the happenings of his personal life. Will the entire industry follow suit?
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