Lil Nas X: Self-Discovery, Authenticity & Spirituality in the Music Industry

Added: Jan 29, 2024

Childhood Memories and Identity

Lil Nas X reflects on his childhood memories, particularly the time spent with his grandmother in Atlanta, Georgia. He recalls feeling loved and cherished during that time, which contrasts with the challenges he faced as he grew older. He also discusses the awareness of his sexuality at a young age and the impact it had on his perception of himself and the world around him.

Evolution of Montero and Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X explains the transformation from Montero, a shy and insecure child, to the persona of Lil Nas X. He describes how his alter ego allowed him to express himself freely and navigate through challenges. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between his courageous and fearful sides, acknowledging the need to protect his innocence while embracing growth and change.

Challenges in the Music Industry

The conversation delves into the challenges Lil Nas X faced in the music industry, particularly after the success of "Old Town Road." He shares his experience of feeling pressured to follow up with another hit and the emotional impact of facing criticism and negative feedback. He opens up about the struggles he encountered during a dark period in his career and the internal conflict he grappled with.

Family and Personal Growth

Lil Nas X discusses his evolving relationship with his father, a gospel singer, and the journey of acceptance and understanding. He shares the complexities of coming out to his family and the gradual shift in their perspectives over time. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and compassion in navigating relationships and personal growth.

Artistic Process and Authenticity

The conversation explores Lil Nas X's artistic process and the challenges of staying true to himself while navigating public perception. He reflects on the pressure to always present a certain image and the impact of societal expectations on his creative expression. He shares his journey of self-discovery and the importance of inner work in understanding his identity and spirituality.

Challenges and Controversies

Lil Nas X addresses the controversy surrounding his music and public image, particularly in relation to religious themes and societal perceptions. He discusses the impact of negative feedback and the struggle to maintain authenticity while facing external pressures. He shares his perspective on the complexities of public perception and the need to balance personal expression with societal expectations.

Self-Healing and Self-Expression

Lil Nas X shares that most of the things he does through his art are for himself, as a form of self-healing and self-expression. He emphasizes that while he is grateful when his art connects with others, his primary focus is on creating music that resonates with his own experiences and emotions. He also acknowledges the role of his art in helping him navigate through difficult times and find a sense of purpose and connection with the world.

Authenticity and Creativity

The conversation delves into the concept of true art and creativity, with Lil Nas X expressing his agreement with Rick Rubin's idea that true art is not made for consumption but is consumed and connected with by others. He emphasizes the importance of creating from within and staying true to one's authentic self, rather than trying to cater to external expectations or trends. He also discusses the challenge of balancing personal expression with the need for his art to be relatable and consumable by a wider audience.

Embracing Contradictions

Lil Nas X reflects on the complexity of human nature and the struggle to embrace contradictory ideas and emotions. He shares his experience of trying to be two things at once, such as wanting to have fun and be lighthearted while also seeking meaningful connections and deeper conversations. He acknowledges the difficulty of navigating these contradictions but also recognizes the value in embracing the multifaceted nature of human existence.

Self-Love and Acceptance

The conversation delves into Lil Nas X's journey towards self-love and acceptance, particularly in relation to his identity as a gay man. He discusses the initial pressure he felt to conform to societal expectations and be the "acceptable gay person," but ultimately, he found the courage to embrace his true self and reject the idea of conforming to others' standards. He emphasizes the importance of loving and accepting oneself, regardless of external judgments or expectations.

Spirituality and Signs

Lil Nas X shares his spiritual beliefs and experiences, including his journey of self-discovery and the role of spirituality in guiding his decisions and actions. He discusses the significance of recognizing spiritual signs and intuition, citing examples of how he has received guidance and validation through signs in everyday life. He emphasizes the importance of trusting his intuition and following his heart, even when faced with uncertainty or doubt.

Family and Relationships

The conversation touches on Lil Nas X's relationship with his family and the impact of his personal experiences on his art and identity. He shares his desire to bring his family together and create a sense of unity and support within his family circle. He also reflects on the importance of maintaining meaningful connections with his loved ones, particularly his nephew, who serves as a source of inspiration and joy in his life.

Rest and Relaxation

Lil Nas X discusses the importance of rest and relaxation in his life, highlighting his love for going to the movies as a form of escapism and self-care. He emphasizes the value of finding moments of peace and relaxation amidst the demands of his career and personal life, acknowledging the need to recharge and find balance in his daily routine.

Future Plans and Growth

Looking ahead, Lil Nas X expresses his focus on self-discovery and growth, particularly in relation to his music and creative endeavors. He discusses the process of selecting songs that resonate with him and align with his artistic vision, emphasizing the importance of trusting his intuition and spiritual guidance in making creative decisions. He also reflects on the challenges of finding the right balance between personal authenticity and commercial appeal in his music.