Steve Lacy, the Grammy-winning alt-pop star behind the massive hit Bad Habit, opens up about his life after sudden fame. Despite selling out tours and earning billions of streams, Lacy remains refreshingly grounded, revealing that his daily routine hasn't changed much since his breakout success.
Life After a No. 1 Hit
Since Bad Habit became one of the biggest songs of 2022, Lacy has navigated a new level of celebrity. He bought a home in Los Angeles but hasn't sought out famous friends. "I think my name is bigger than my face, which is great," he says, noting that he can still walk down the street largely unrecognized. His anonymity is a deliberate contrast to the massive streaming numbers—over 2.8 billion on Spotify alone—for his album Gemini Rights.
The Early Years: From iPhone to Smithsonian
Lacy's journey began early. He taught himself guitar as a child and earned his first Grammy nomination at 17 as part of the band The Internet. A year later, he produced Kendrick Lamar's track "Pride" on the Pulitzer-winning album Damn—using an iPhone. That same cracked phone later ended up in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. Nile Rodgers called him "innovation personified."
Balancing Stardom and Sobriety
When asked about his past, Lacy reflects on his earlier lifestyle. "I used to do acid on a Wednesday. I don't have time for that now," he admits. The demands of touring, recording, and maintaining his career have forced a shift in priorities. He now focuses on his craft and staying healthy, avoiding the pitfalls that often accompany rapid fame.
Key Takeaways from Steve Lacy's Journey
- Early Talent: Lacy's musical genius was evident from a young age, with Grammy nominations before adulthood.
- Innovative Production: He famously produced a Kendrick Lamar track using only an iPhone.
- Grounded Fame: Despite global success, Lacy maintains a low profile and avoids the Hollywood scene.
- Personal Growth: He has traded past indulgences for a disciplined, focused lifestyle.
Comparison: Steve Lacy Then vs. Now
| Aspect | Before Bad Habit | After Bad Habit |
|---|---|---|
| Recognition | Underground cult following | Global streaming phenomenon |
| Lifestyle | Experimental, less structured | Disciplined, focused on health |
| Production Tools | iPhone for recording | Professional studio gear |
| Public Visibility | Low-key, almost anonymous | Still largely unrecognized in public |
FAQ
What is Steve Lacy's biggest hit?
Steve Lacy's biggest hit is Bad Habit, which reached No. 1 on the US charts and won a Grammy Award.
How did Steve Lacy produce a song for Kendrick Lamar?
He produced the track Pride for Kendrick Lamar's album Damn entirely using an iPhone, showcasing his innovative approach to music production.
Is Steve Lacy still part of The Internet?
Yes, Steve Lacy remains a member of the alt-R&B band The Internet, alongside Syd, though he has also built a successful solo career.
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