Alt-pop star Steve Lacy reflects on his journey after the massive success of his hit Bad Habit, sharing how little has changed despite Grammy wins and sold-out tours. In a candid interview, the 28-year-old musician reveals his struggles with fame and his commitment to staying grounded.
Steve Lacy's Rise to Fame with Bad Habit
Steve Lacy's single Bad Habit became one of the biggest songs of 2022, propelling him to No. 1 on the US charts and earning him a Grammy. The track's success led to a sold-out tour across North America, Europe, and Australia. Yet, Lacy insists his life remains surprisingly normal. He bought a new home in Los Angeles but hasn't made any famous friends. He doesn't get hounded in public, partly because he's a natural homebody.
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“I think my name is bigger than my face, which is great,” Lacy says with a mischievous smile. He believes he's pulled off the ultimate trick of modern pop stardom: being celebrated while remaining almost unrecognizable. Thanks to the collaged portrait on the cover of his 2022 album Gemini Rights, many of the listeners responsible for its 2.8 billion Spotify streams have no clear idea of what he looks like.
Struggles and Sacrifices Behind the Success
Lacy's path to fame wasn't without challenges. He recalls his early days, saying, “I used to do acid on a Wednesday. I don’t have time for that now.” The demands of his career forced him to mature quickly. After teaching himself guitar as a child, he received his first Grammy nomination at 17 as part of the alt-R&B band The Internet. He went to school the day after the ceremony.
A year later, he produced Kendrick Lamar's track Pride from the Pulitzer-winning album Damn using an iPhone. In 2022, that same cracked phone was displayed at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. Nile Rodgers once called him “innovation personified.” But with success came pressure to maintain his creative edge.
Comparison of Steve Lacy's Early Career vs. Post-Bad Habit
| Aspect | Early Career | Post-Bad Habit |
|---|---|---|
| Recognition | Niche music obsessives | Global No. 1 hit |
| Grammy Nominations | First at age 17 | Won for Bad Habit |
| Tour Life | Small venues | Sold-out arenas |
| Daily Routine | Experimental lifestyle | Focused, disciplined |
Key Takeaways from Steve Lacy's Interview
- Fame doesn't change everyone: Lacy remains a homebody who values privacy.
- Hard work pays off: From iPhone production to Smithsonian display, his journey inspires.
- Staying grounded: He avoids the pitfalls of celebrity by focusing on his craft.
- Innovation is key: Lacy's unique approach to music sets him apart.
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.
How did Steve Lacy start his music career?
He taught himself guitar as a child and later joined the alt-R&B band The Internet, earning his first Grammy nomination at 17.
What does Steve Lacy think about fame?
He believes his name is bigger than his face, allowing him to enjoy success without constant public attention.