In a music trade that has leaned towards viral expertise, Latto has constructed her profession brick by brick, which she says, “is my testimony for actual.” From her early days as a baby rapper to her rise as one in all hip-hop’s most seen voices, Latto’s profession is a testomony to persistence and flexibility. The Atlanta-raised artist has carved her path with a mixture of infectious melodies, unapologetic bars and a business-savvy method that has cemented her as a powerhouse in rap. She is a primary instance of artist improvement and pivoting within the public eye on the comparatively younger age of solely 25. Right here’s a take a look at her journey by her most pivotal profession milestones so far:
2016: Profitable The Rap Game
At simply 16, Latto – then referred to as Miss Mulatto – stepped into the nationwide highlight by competing on the debut season of Lifetime’s The Rap Sport. Mentored by Jermaine Dupri, she emerged victorious, showcasing her lyrical prowess and star energy. Jermaine Dupri supplied her a take care of So So Def Information after her win on The Rap Sport, however Latto turned it down, saying the cash wasn’t sufficient. As a substitute, she determined to guess on herself and go the impartial route, a daring transfer that set the tone for her profession.
2017-2018: Impartial Buzz and Native ATL Rap Scene
After The Rap Sport, Latto targeted on constructing her profession independently, releasing a gradual stream of mixtapes, freestyles and singles. Tracks like “Response Diss” and “Bitch From Da Souf” turned underground hits, gaining her a loyal following and a spotlight for her assured supply and Southern aptitude.
2019-2020: Going Viral with “B*tch From Da Souf”
2019’s “Bitch From Da Souf” was Latto’s breakout second. The daring anthem turned a viral sensation, resulting in a remix that includes Saweetie and Trina. The only’s success earned Latto her first RIAA Gold certification, signaling her upcoming arrival on a bigger stage.
2020: Signing with RCA Information; Releases Debut ‘Queen of Da Souf’
Constructing on her momentum, Latto signed with RCA Information in 2020. The deal amplified her attain, permitting her to transition from indie standout to mainstream contender. Her debut studio album, Queen of Da Souf, launched that very same yr, spawned hits like “Muwop” that includes Gucci Mane, additional solidifying her rising standing.
2021: Identify Change and Rebranding
In 2021, Latto formally dropped “Mulatto” in favor of her present stage title, a transfer that signaled progress and maturity. The rebrand was a turning level in her profession, repositioning her picture and addressing critiques from followers and friends concerning the unique title’s controversial connotations. Together with the title rebrand, was a sonic and aesthetic rebrand. She shifted conscious from bodysuits and extra towards streetwear with Y2K vibes, whereas embracing her pure hair.
2021-2022: “Huge Vitality,” 777, Breakthrough and GRAMMY Shine
“Huge Vitality” catapulted Latto into mainstream hip-hop and past. The 2021 single, sampling Mariah Carey’s hit “Fantasy,” turned her greatest chart efficiency to this point, peaking within the Prime 5 of the Billboard Sizzling 100. Mariah Carey later joined the rapper on the official remix recording. The duo even carried out the observe collectively on the 2022 BET Awards, the place Latto took house the Greatest New Artist award. The music’s crossover attraction earned Latto a number of award nominations, together with a GRAMMY nod for Greatest Melodic Rap Efficiency. The only was Latto’s first dip into the pop style.
2023: “Put It On Da Ground Once more” and the Viral Plastic Bag Problem
Latto proved her knack for creating cultural moments with “Put It On Da Ground Once more,” her fiery remix that includes Cardi B. The observe’s unapologetic bars and infectious vitality shortly took over social media, sparking the viral “plastic bag problem,” the place followers dramatically ripped open luggage in tribute to Latto’s iconic line, “Rip me out the plastic, I’ve been performing model new.” The problem turned a TikTok sensation, additional cementing her affect in each music and popular culture.
2024: The Sugar Honey Iced Tea Period
In August 2024, Latto launched her third album, Sugar Honey Iced Tea, showcasing her progress with dynamic tracks just like the membership staple “Sunday Service” and the sensual, GRAMMY-nominated “Huge Mama.” That includes Megan Thee Stallion, Ciara, Mariah the Scientist, Teezo Landing, Cardi B and Flo Milli, the album blends daring rap anthems with introspective storytelling. Latto introduced the challenge to life on her Sugar Honey Iced Tea tour, joined by Mariah the Scientist and rising star Karrahbooo, solidifying her standing as a powerhouse in hip-hop.
2024: Full Circle – Latto Turns into Choose on Netflix’s Rhythm + Circulate
In 2024, Latto got here full circle, returning to her roots in rap actuality TV as a decide on Netflix’s reboot of Rhythm + Circulate. Becoming a member of trade heavyweights Ludacris and DJ Khaled, Latto introduced her firsthand expertise as a former actuality rapper competitors contestant to the panel, providing contestants insightful critiques and steerage. Her presence on the present highlighted her journey from teen competitor to rap celebrity, inspiring the following era of hip-hop expertise whereas solidifying her function as a rap star.