Yeat on New Album, Drake & NBA YoungBoy: Exclusive Interview

Yeat, the enigmatic Los Angeles-based rapper, has broken a five-year silence with a rare interview alongside the impending release of his new double album, ADL (A Dangerous Lyfe / A Dangerous Love). The conversation, premiered Wednesday on Apple Music’s YouTube channel with Zane Lowe, offers a glimpse into the artist’s creative process, his burgeoning friendship with Drake, and his respect for fellow artist NBA YoungBoy.

The new project, set to arrive on streaming platforms this Friday, March 27, isn’t just another album for Yeat. He described it as a “tone-setter” for the rest of his career, suggesting a deliberate shift or evolution in his sound and artistic direction. “The album is more like gonna set the tone for the rest of my career,” Yeat explained. “It’s gonna light the way for a lot of people. A lot of my fans, especially. And I feel like it’s just gonna be a new precedent for like, where my music is gonna be.”

A Career Defined by Independent Momentum

Yeat, born Noah Oliver Smith in 2000, rose to prominence through a distinctly DIY approach, initially gaining traction on SoundCloud and building a dedicated fanbase through consistent releases and a unique, often auto-tuned vocal style. His early mixtapes, like Up 2 Something (2018) and Sorry Bout That (2020), established his signature sound, blending trap beats with melodic elements and a penchant for ad-libs. He’s maintained a remarkable degree of creative control throughout his career, often handling production and mixing himself. This independence has allowed him to cultivate a devoted following who appreciate his unconventional approach. His 2022 album, 2 Alagz, peaked at number six on the Billboard 200, demonstrating his growing mainstream appeal. Billboard charts track album performance.

Drake’s Influence and a Genuine Connection with YoungBoy

The interview also touched on Yeat’s relationship with Drake, a collaboration that has clearly had a significant impact on the young artist. Yeat spoke of Drake providing an “eye-opening perspective” on navigating a successful music career. While the specifics of that guidance weren’t detailed, the implication is that Drake, a veteran of the industry, has offered valuable insights into longevity and sustainability in the music business. Drake recently debuted new songs featuring Yeat, Cash Cobain, and others in his ‘ICEMAN’ stream, as reported by New York’s Power 105.1 FM.

Beyond Drake, Yeat expressed genuine admiration for NBA YoungBoy (also known as Top), who features on the ADL track “Face the Flame” alongside Grimes. “Me and Top been cool for a long time. I love Top. He’s just like another case of a person that’s just like, he’s so real,” Yeat stated. He emphasized the authenticity of their connection, describing it as a “genuine…real friendship.” YoungBoy Never Broke Again has faced numerous legal challenges throughout his career, but remains a hugely popular and influential figure in the rap world, known for his prolific output and intensely personal lyrics.

The Complex Landscape of 2025 Rap

Yeat’s upcoming album arrives in a competitive landscape. Complex recently published a list of the 30 best rap songs of 2025, featuring artists like Drake, Doechii, and, notably, Yeat himself. This recognition underscores his growing critical acclaim and positions him as a key player in the current rap scene. The list highlights the diversity and innovation within the genre, showcasing a range of styles and voices.

What’s Next for ADL and Beyond?

With ADL (A Dangerous Lyfe / A Dangerous Love) slated for release this Friday, the immediate focus is on the album’s performance and reception. The double album format suggests a substantial body of work, potentially offering fans a deeper dive into Yeat’s artistic vision. The success of “Face the Flame,” featuring NBA YoungBoy and Grimes, will likely be a key indicator of the album’s overall trajectory. Following the release, a tour announcement is anticipated, though no dates have been confirmed at this time. Yeat’s stated intention for ADL to “set the tone” for his career suggests a long-term commitment to evolving his sound and solidifying his position as a leading voice in contemporary rap.

The interview with Zane Lowe provides a rare and valuable insight into Yeat’s mindset and artistic ambitions. It’s a signal that he’s not just focused on making music, but on building a lasting legacy. The connections with established artists like Drake and NBA YoungBoy further demonstrate his growing influence and his willingness to collaborate with diverse talents. As ADL drops, fans and industry observers alike will be watching closely to observe if Yeat can deliver on his promise of a new precedent for his music.