Lil Uzi Vert is somewhat controversial in hip-hop and is a highly polarising figure. Although Lil Uzi Vert may not be the most lyrical rapper in the world, there is no denying that he has been one of the most popular and relevant rappers for quite a while now.
The musician (real now Symere Woods) was first picked up by Don Cannon, who referred Uzi to the legendary DJ Drama, who assisted Lil Wayne in the 2000s with his mixtapes. Don Cannon heard about Lil Uzi Vert because DJ Diamond Kuts played his music on local Philadelphia radio.
Upon being referred to DJ Drama, the North Philadelphia rapper signed with Generation Now, Drama and Cannon’s joint label under Atlantic Records. Since his signing in 2014, Lil Uzi Vert has remained a mainstay and one of the most popular yet controversial rappers. Appearing on the XXL cover in 2016, Lil Uzi Vert was part of the ‘Freshman Class’ that ended up being labelled the ‘Slow Class’ and would be the primary target for all those opposed to mumble rap.
Woods has remained a target in the culture due to his questionable decisions. Whether it’s his proclivity to wear female clothing or desire to flirt with satanism openly, the ‘X0 Tour Lif3’ act has been deemed a stain upon contemporary hip-hop. However, his audacity and persistence have led to an evergrowing increase in his popularity, and he still has legions of fans ready to support and rally him on.
Lil Uzi’s 2016 debut mixtape, Lil Uzi Vert vs the World, was certified platinum and managed to peak within the top 40 at number 37. Woods’ 2017 debut studio album, Luv Is Rage 2, was an outstanding success and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. The project boasted several high-status guest verses, including contributions from the likes of Pharrell Williams and The Weeknd.
Following the release of his sophomore album, Eternal Atake in 2020, Woods appeared on The Fat Joe Show, an Instagram video series during which Fat Joe quizzes artists about their careers and influences. The Bronx rapper (real name Jose Cartagena) asked Woods about his favourite rhymers, and the ‘Money Longer’ act revealed his top five.
You can see his picks in the video below.
Lil Uzi Vert’s favourite rappers:
- Mike Jones
- Lil Wayne
- Young Thug
- Remy Ma
- Kurupt