Atlanta’s youngest rap sensation, Lil RT, is making a surprising career pivot. Nine-year-old Lil RT is trading his rising music career for athletic fame. After his viral hit “60 Miles” earned him millions of views on YouTube, few people expected Lil RT to switch to football suddenly.
Lil RT’s musical career started early, with the young dude doing his freestyle skills even on TikTok. His first single was “60 Miles,” which went viral upon its release on October 11, 2023; in a few months, this eight-year-old youngster already reached over 4 million views on YouTube. The track evidenced his lyrical prowess-impregnated themes that have to do with street life and urban struggles, thus making many fans feel a resonance with the track.
Some people appreciated his talent and bravery, while others felt he should not be singing about such mature themes at such a tender age. The controversy did nothing to hurt him, though, as the following came swiftly: collaborations like New York rapper Lil Mabu.
This youngster, however, has collaborated with big names like New York rapper Lil Mabu on a single entitled “BIG DOG SH*T,” which was released in March 2024. Most of the songs he sings are small-time hook songs, which listeners can fully relate to; that’s why his rise to fame in the hip-hop world is so fast.
Things, however, took a different turn when Lil RT announced that he would be leaving music to focus on football. This move simply shows that he seeks to find other means, probably for passion in the sport. At such a young age and exposed to the media, this is quite bold and noteworthy.
Unfortunately, things didn’t go well on his first day football practice for Lil RT. Reports showed that he got dropped on his first day and exited the field in no time. The move has just created a storm online, with scores expressing sympathy about the situation that occurred the young artist.
But this transition has been more than just plain sailing. Reports have it that Lil RT had a fall on the first day of practice in football, which led to his exit from the team, which was unexpected. The struggle to adapt to such a physically demanding sport as football is worlds apart from the creative process of writing and performing music. It’s tough, but those close to him say he’ll keep going.
Lil RT’s story reminds us that young stars also feel the pressure of public life. The backlash regarding the content of his music added to that intense spotlight, could likely be why he wants to step away and do something he enjoys.
His fan base also includes many young followers, and their reactions have been mixed: some are excited to see him trying something new, while others hope he will not leave the music world forever. On Twitter, internationally, one young fan said, “I followed him since his first freestyle. Cool he’s doing football, but I really don’t want him to stop making music. He’s so talented!”
She has been one of the biggest supporters and encouragers he’s had through the years. She was the guiding force in his life to indulge in whatever field he had an interest in, whether it would be musical or sportive. Her strength and resilience are often mentioned in his songs; this comes because of their strong bond. “She’s always had my back,” said Lil RT. Whatever I do, I know she’s there for me.”
He often speaks of her being so strong and resilient, motivating him to make his dreams a reality. In June 2024, a video from his 10th birthday party went viral, showing the vivid celebration of children with the performance of dancing adult women, which went viral online. Despite controversies and criticisms thrown at him, Lil RT is one determined young artist, and his future seems bright, either in music or sports.
Only time will tell if Lil RT will make a name for himself in football, just as he did in music. From young rapper to young athlete isn’t easy, but it’s apparent that he’s ready to take this new chapter on with some of the same energy and passion he brought to his musical work.
His fans, however, may have to wait to see if he scores touchdowns on the field or returns to the studio to drop even more hits. Whichever that may be, Lil RT’s movement is one to be watched for the future, as his drive inspires young kids all over to pursue their dreams no matter how many times they switch up.
