On June 18, XXXTentacion’s estate commemorated the fifth anniversary of the rapper’s tragic death by releasing a posthumous track titled “I’m Not Human.”
This collaboration with Lil Uzi Vert was originally teased on what would have been XXXTentacion’s 25th birthday in January but was held back until this significant milestone. The new single, produced by John Cunningham, pays homage to the unique talent and artistic vision of the late rapper. XXXTentacion, born Jahseh Onfroy, was a rising star in the hip-hop industry before his life was cut short on June 18, 2018. At the early age of 20, he was shot and killed outside a motorcycle store in Deerfield Beach, Florida. His untimely passing left a void in the music world and sparked an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow artists alike.
“I’m Not Human” is a testament to XXXTentacion’s multifaceted talent and his ability to connect with listeners through his music. The track features Lil Uzi Vert, another prominent figure in the rap scene known for his unique style and introspective lyrics. The collaboration between the two artists adds a dynamic element to the song, combining their distinct voices and perspectives. John Cunningham, a longtime collaborator of XXXTentacion, shared insights into the creation of “I’m Not Human” in a heartfelt statement. He revealed that during their time together in Florida in 2018, he and XXXTentacion would often spend days in his room, with Cunningham playing the guitar while XXXTentacion sang. It was during one of these sessions that XXXTentacion first sang the phrase “I’m not human,” and they both recognized the significance of the moment.
The journey of “I’m Not Human” and its release was not without its challenges. Cunningham shared that discussions with Lil Uzi Vert about a posthumous release with XXXTentacion began in late 2018, even before the release of XXXTentacion’s album, “SKINS.” However, they decided to wait for the right time and the right song to honor XXXTentacion’s legacy properly. In 2022, after reconnecting with XXXTentacion’s mother, Cleo, Lil Uzi Vert and Cunningham felt that the stars had aligned, and the time was right to bring “I’m Not Human” to fruition. The collaboration between Lil Uzi Vert and XXXTentacion represented a meeting of minds and a shared admiration for each other’s artistry.
Posthumous releases are a double-edged sword, offering fans a glimpse into an artist’s unreleased work while raising questions about the intentions and authenticity of these releases. Cunningham acknowledged the complexity of posthumous releases but expressed his personal connection to “I’m Not Human” and the joy of witnessing the fusion of XXXTentacion and Lil Uzi Vert’s voices in a way that had never been heard before.
Despite XXXTentacion’s untimely passing, his music and artistic vision continue to resonate with fans worldwide. His impact on the industry transcends his short time in the spotlight, as his authenticity and willingness to explore his own vulnerabilities left a lasting mark on the hearts and minds of listeners.
The release of “I’m Not Human” on the fifth anniversary of XXXTentacion’s death is a testament to the impact he continues to have on the music industry. This posthumous track, featuring Lil Uzi Vert, showcases XXXTentacion’s artistry and the emotional depth he brought to his music. Through his lyrics and vulnerability, XXXTentacion connected with fans on a profound level, leaving an indelible legacy that continues to resonate with listeners around the world. As we honor the fifth anniversary of his passing, “I’m Not Human” stands as a reminder of the unique talent and artistic vision that XXXTentacion brought to the world.