Playboi Carti, the enigmatic rapper known for his experimental sound and unpredictable release strategies, has once again ignited the hopes of his fans. On March 9, 2025, Carti shared a screenshot on his Instagram Story of a text exchange with producer Wheezy, discussing the possibility of sampling Jay-Z’s “Girls, Girls, Girls” for his long-awaited album, ‘I Am Music’. This post led to a flurry of fan reactions, with many questioning the album’s completion status. In response, Carti clarified in a subsequent story that the conversation with Wheezy was about a different project, asserting that ‘I Am Music’ is indeed finished.
A History of Teases and Delays
The journey to ‘I Am Music’ has been anything but straightforward. Initially teased under the title ‘Narcissist’ in August 2021, the album underwent several name changes before settling on its current title. Throughout this period, Carti has been notorious for his cryptic social media posts and elusive release dates, leaving fans in a constant state of anticipation. In September 2024, he released the single “All Red,” which many believed signaled the imminent arrival of the album. However, months passed without any official release, leading to growing frustration among his fanbase.
Fan Frustration Reaches a Boiling Point
The repeated delays have not gone unnoticed. In late 2024, the hashtag #IAMLIAR began trending on social media platforms, reflecting fans’ exasperation with Carti’s unfulfilled promises. Some even went as far as creating an online petition urging streaming platforms like Apple Music and Spotify to ban the rapper until he delivers the new tracks. The petition accused Carti of making “empty promises” and disrespecting his fanbase, garnering thousands of signatures.
Recent Developments: A Glimmer of Hope
Despite past disappointments, recent events have reignited hope among fans. In February 2025, billboards bearing the message “Music Is Coming” alongside the Spotify logo appeared in major cities like Los Angeles and Miami. These advertisements fueled speculation that the album’s release was imminent.
Additionally, during a performance at ComplexCon in November 2024, Carti hinted at collaborating with Kanye West on the album, stating, “Shoutout to my nigga Kanye. Big bro been making beats and shit, that album gon’ be crazy.”
The Instagram Story That Sparked Debate
The recent Instagram Story featuring Wheezy’s text about sampling Jay-Z added another layer to the ongoing saga. Fans were quick to interpret this as evidence that the album was still in progress, leading to a mix of excitement and skepticism. One fan commented, “So the album ain’t even done?” reflecting the uncertainty that has surrounded the project. Carti’s clarification that the conversation pertained to a different project and that ‘I Am Music’ is complete has done little to quell the speculation.
Industry Perspectives and Collaborations
Within the music industry, there is cautious optimism about the album’s release. Producer Cardo, known for his work with artists like Drake and Kendrick Lamar, has been collaborating with Carti on the project. In a September 2024 interview, Cardo mentioned that they have coined the term “burnt music” to describe the unique sound they’ve been crafting, suggesting a departure from Carti’s previous work.
The Impact of ‘Whole Lotta Red’ and Expectations for ‘I Am Music’
Carti’s last album, ‘Whole Lotta Red’, released in December 2020, debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 but received mixed reviews initially. Over time, however, it has been praised for its innovation and has significantly influenced the hip-hop genre. This evolution in perception has heightened expectations for ‘I Am Music’, with fans and critics alike eager to see how Carti will push musical boundaries this time.
The Role of Social Media in Shaping Fan Expectations
Carti’s use of social media has been a double-edged sword. While his cryptic posts and snippets have kept fans engaged, they have also led to widespread speculation and, at times, misinformation. The recent Instagram Story is a prime example of how a single post can ignite debates and discussions across platforms, reflecting the complexities of artist-fan interactions in the digital age.
Merchandise Drops and Promotional Strategies
In addition to music teasers, Carti has employed unconventional promotional strategies, including surprise merchandise drops. In September 2021, he hinted at an album titled ‘Narcissist’ and released related merchandise, but the album itself never materialized. These tactics have kept fans on their toes but have also contributed to the frustration over the lack of new music.
The Influence of Collaborators
Collaborations have played a significant role in shaping the anticipation for ‘I Am Music’. Carti’s association with high-profile artists like Kanye West has added to the album’s mystique. During a club performance in November 2024, Carti acknowledged Kanye’s contribution, saying, “Shoutout to my nigga Kanye. Big bro been making beats and shit, that album gon’ be crazy.”
The Evolution of Carti’s Sound
Over the years, Carti’s sound has evolved from playful, melodic tunes to darker, more experimental tracks. This evolution has been evident in the snippets and performances leading up to ‘I Am Music’. Fans have noted a shift towards more complex production and introspective lyrics, indicating a maturation
