Lil Uzi Teases Steampunk Direction
Lil Uzi Vert announced plans to "revolutionize rap" by exploring a steampunk-inspired direction in their next project, aiming for a distinct aesthetic and sound. The move represents Uzi's latest attempt to set themselves apart in the hip-hop landscape with unconventional creative choices. Meanwhile, Victoria Monét is embracing a new empowering chapter with single "Let Me," reflecting her journey through motherhood and commitment to authentic self-expression.
This new steampunk direction is part of Lil Uzi Vert's history of aesthetic shifts, which have previously included everything from punk rock influences to cosmic and sci-fi themes, particularly in the artwork for albums like "Luv Is Rage 2" and "Eternal Atake". Their style has been noted for its gender-bending approach and incorporation of high-fashion brands like Rick Owens and Jean Paul Gaultier. The steampunk genre itself is a subgenre of science fiction inspired by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery. Aesthetically, it often incorporates elements like gears, goggles, and Victorian-era fashion, creating a retro-futuristic feel. Uzi's adoption of this style is a conscious move away from the "goth" aesthetic prevalent in modern hip-hop. This announcement follows a pattern of Uzi teasing and sometimes scrapping projects. Fans have cataloged numerous unreleased albums and collaborations over the years, including "Barter 16" and a joint project with Playboi Carti titled "16*29". Uzi has also previously mentioned a "Luv Is Rage 3" album, which they at one point suggested would be their final album. Victoria Monét's new single "Let Me," released on February 11, 2026, is described as having a '90s R&B feel. It's the lead single for her upcoming sophomore album and her first new music in two years. This summer, she is also scheduled to open for Bruno Mars on the European leg of his "The Romantic Tour". This new chapter for Monét comes after significant career milestones in 2024, where she won three Grammy Awards for her debut studio album "Jaguar II," including Best New Artist and Best R&B Album. The album's hit single, "On My Mama," peaked in the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100. Before her solo success, Monét had a long and successful career as a songwriter for other major artists. She has written for artists like Ariana Grande, Fifth Harmony, BLACKPINK, and Travis Scott, earning her first Grammy nominations for her work on Grande's "Thank U, Next" album.
