Rappers are the new rock stars and Lil Uzi Vert is arguably the biggest rock star in the genre. The Philadelphia rapper, born Symere Bysil Woods, is a charismatic figure but also unpredictable and mysterious. Uzi initially started his career in 2014, with two self-released projects: Purple Thoughts EP, Vol. 1 and The Real Uzi mixtape. After signing with DJ Drama's Generation Now imprint via Atlantic Records in 2015, they released their second mixtape, Luv Is Rage. In 2017, Uzi delivered their debut album, Luv Is Rage 2, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. The four-time platinum LP features the biggest song of their career, "XO Tour Llif3," which has sold over 11 million units in the U.S.

In 2020, Uzi released the musically adventurous project Eternal Atake, which became their second No. 1 album. Not to be outdone, they collected their third No. 1 album with Pink Tape, released in June of 2023. The LP includes the Jersey Club-inspired banger "Just Wanna Rock," which has become an unofficial theme song at sporting events. In the course of his career, the Grammy-nominated rhymer has had some personal struggles with substance abuse. In the months leading up to the Pink Tape release, Uzi got clean and sober during a seven-month rehab stint. They have since credited their sobriety with helping them stay focused and create the best music. It's a testament to Lil Uzi Vert's strength and resilience as an artist.