Jack Harlow is speaking openly about race, music, and the expectations placed on him in today’s industry.
During an appearance on the New York Times Popcast, Harlow reflected on the direction of his music and the cultural conversations surrounding it. The Louisville rapper said that instead of stepping away from hip-hop or leaning into a genre perceived as “safer,” he decided to lean further into the sound and culture that influenced him.
“I love Black music,” Harlow said while discussing his collaboration with R&B singer Monica on the track “Monica.”
He also acknowledged that he understands the racial politics that come with being a white artist in a genre created and dominated by Black artists.
“Of course I’m hyper aware of the politics of today; that safer landing spot that a lot of my white contemporaries have found,” Harlow explained.
Rather than following that path, Harlow said he’s aware that some people expect him to take the same route but he’s choosing differently.
“There’s plenty of people expecting me to take some of the routes y’all are taking.”
