Lil Yachty is showing major love to Tyler, The Creator — crediting the Odd Future star as one of the few mentors who’s truly helped guide him through life and music.
The Atlanta rapper, who’s been opening for Tyler on his Chromakopia North American tour, took to Instagram this week to express his gratitude.
“Last leg of this tour for me and I just want to take the time to thank you for your friendship, thanking you for giving me the praises I needed to push me on and holding me accountable when I do some ignorant sh*t,” Yachty wrote.
He continued:
“1 of the few mentors I have, always held me accountable, always challenged me. Forever grateful. Young men need mentors. Need a line of proper guidance. Thanks Tyyytyyy.”
The post highlights a softer side of Yachty, who’s long been known for his playful persona and colorful music. Tyler, who’s equally praised for his artistry and brutally honest personality, has clearly become a source of inspiration and accountability for the 26-year-old.
The George Floyd Lyric Controversy
Despite the heartfelt tribute, Yachty also found himself in hot water recently after a controversial lyric sparked backlash.
During a Twitch livestream, he previewed a new track where he rapped:
“Put my knee up on her neck, I went George Floyd.”
The line immediately drew outrage, with former NBA star and George Floyd’s close friend Stephen Jackson blasting Yachty in a now-deleted Instagram post.
“Don’t ever say his name, bro. None of y’all knew G. Nothing about him,” Jackson wrote. “That’s demeaning.”
Yachty Apologizes After Backlash
After speaking directly with Jackson, Yachty issued a private apology. Jackson later revealed on his Instagram Story that the two had made peace.
“I took my post down about Yachty because I’m emotional about George. I apologized to him. We spoke and he apologized as well,” Jackson shared. “I salute him. Not a lot of people like to own up to when they f*** up.”
Why Tyler’s Mentorship Matters
The moment highlights why Tyler’s influence may be so important to Yachty right now. Having a mentor who isn’t afraid to hold him accountable could help the rapper navigate both his artistic growth and the responsibility that comes with his platform.
For fans, the public appreciation post serves as a reminder that even rap stars need guidance — and that vulnerability doesn’t diminish artistry, it elevates it.
✨ The Pop Radar Take:
Lil Yachty’s tribute to Tyler, The Creator feels like a moment of growth. But with the George Floyd controversy still fresh, his next moves will be crucial in showing fans he’s learning from both his mentors and his missteps.