
About
Thebe Neruda Kgositsile (born February 24, 1994), better known as Earl Sweatshirt, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. He released his debut mixtape, EARL, as a free digital download on the OFWGKTA website at sixteen years-old, with the help of founding OFWGKTA member Tyler, the Creator. During the years of 2010 - 2012, he was sent to a reform school, which prompted the #FreeEarl meme. His debut studio album, Doris, was released in 2013 to widespread critical acclaim. Read more on Last.fm
Genres
- alternative hip hop
- drumless hip hop
- experimental hip hop
- hip hop
- rap
- underground hip hop
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Earl Sweatshirt sober?
- Earl Sweatshirt, born Thebe Neruda Kgositsile, has been open about his journey with substance use and sobriety. In interviews and lyrics, Earl has discussed his struggles with drugs and alcohol, particularly in his teenage years and early career. Around the release of his 2018 album "Some Rap Songs," Earl Sweatshirt revealed that he was focusing on his mental health and sobriety, indicating a conscious effort to remain sober. While he has acknowledged relapses and the ongoing challenges of sobriety, Earl has made it clear that maintaining a healthier lifestyle is a priority for him. Fans have noticed a shift in his music and public persona, often attributing this to his efforts to stay sober and work on his mental well-being. However, like many artists navigating recovery, Earl's journey is personal and ongoing, with no definitive public statement confirming his current status. For the latest updates, fans often look to Earl Sweatshirt's interviews and social media for insights into his sobriety and wellness.
- Why did the Earl Sweatshirt get sent away?
- Earl Sweatshirt was sent away in 2012 to a Samoan boarding school for at-risk boys called Coral Reef Academy. This decision was made by his mother, concerned about his behavioral issues and substance use as a teenager. At the time, Earl was gaining rapid fame as a member of the Odd Future collective, and his controversial lyrics and lifestyle attracted attention from both fans and the media. His mother, a respected law professor, intervened to help Earl focus on his education and address personal struggles away from the pressures of the Los Angeles music scene. The time in Samoa was formative for Earl Sweatshirt, providing structure and space for self-reflection. His absence prompted the viral "Free Earl"
- Where does Earl Sweatshirt live now?
- Earl Sweatshirt is known for keeping his personal life private, including details about his current residence. As of recent reports and social media activity, Earl has been primarily based in Los Angeles, California, which remains a central hub for his music career and collaborations. Los Angeles has played a significant role in Earl's artistic development, from his early days with Odd Future to his solo projects. While he occasionally spends time in other cities for touring and recording, LA offers him access to studios, collaborators, and the vibrant local hip-hop scene. Earl's privacy-conscious approach means he rarely discloses specific information about his living arrangements, but he is frequently spotted at events and music venues in the Los Angeles area. Fans interested in Earl Sweatshirt's upcoming performances or appearances in LA can stay updated via Gigfomo, where tickets to his shows are readily available. For security and privacy reasons, more precise details about his residence are not publicly shared.
- When did Earl come out?
- Earl Sweatshirt made his official return to the public eye and music scene in February 2012, after spending over a year at the Coral Reef Academy in Samoa. His absence sparked widespread speculation and the viral "Free Earl" movement among fans. Upon his return, Earl quickly rejoined Odd Future and began releasing music, first appearing on stage with the group at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City. This marked his "coming out" moment back into the spotlight, igniting excitement among his fanbase and the hip-hop community. Shortly after, he released new tracks, including the highly anticipated song "Home," which addressed his experiences during his time away. Earl's re-emergence solidified his position as one of the most introspective and talented lyricists of his generation. Since then, he has continued to release critically acclaimed projects, evolving his sound and narrative with each album. Fans still celebrate his 2012 return as a pivotal moment in contemporary hip-hop.
- Does the Earl Sweatshirt still perform?
- Yes, Earl Sweatshirt still performs live, continuing to captivate audiences with his raw lyricism and unique stage presence. He regularly headlines tours and music festivals, both nationally and internationally. Recent years have seen Earl Sweatshirt perform at major events such as Rolling Loud, Coachella, and Pitchfork Music Festival, in addition to intimate solo shows and collaborative performances with other hip-hop artists. His live sets are known for their authenticity, often featuring tracks from his acclaimed albums like "Some Rap Songs," "SICK!," and "I Don't Like Shit, I Don't Go Outside." Earl maintains a dedicated fanbase eager to experience his introspective and experimental sound in a live setting. For fans looking to catch Earl Sweatshirt on tour, Gigfomo offers up-to-date listings and ticket options for his upcoming concerts and festival appearances. As he continues to evolve artistically, Earl Sweatshirt remains an influential figure in the live hip-hop scene.