Jack Harlow Says He Refused to Embrace a “Whiter Genre” for New Album: “I Got Blacker” [Video]

Jack Harlow is taking a different musical direction with his latest release, leaning deeper into melody and R&B influences on his new album, “Monica.”

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The Louisville rapper recently spoke about the shift during an appearance on The New York Times’ “Popcast,” where he discussed the inspiration behind his fourth studio project and the artistic choices that shaped its sound.

During the conversation, co-host Joe Coscarelli asked Harlow whether White rappers are sometimes given more freedom to move between genres. Coscarelli shared his perspective first, explaining that once a White rapper proves themselves lyrically, audiences may be more open to them exploring different musical styles.

“Definitely. I think there is something about being a White rapper that first puts the chip on your shoulder,” Coscarelli said. “And then you prove yourself… you become accepted… and then you have the privilege, the ability to say, ‘I rapped my a** off. I’m not gonna do that anymore, at least for now.’”

Rather than shifting toward rock or country influences, Harlow said his new project moves further into the sounds that shaped much of modern popular music. When asked about that decision, he answered simply: “I got Blacker.”

The rapper explained that the choice was ultimately about musical preference rather than strategy.

“I’m not gonna pretend, with what you’re talking about, that I was like, huh, I guess you’re right! I knew that there were multiple things appealing about this route, but I also came to the decision, I’m proud to say, off of what feels good in my ear,” he said.

Harlow added that the album also reflects his desire to evolve creatively and rely less on imitation. As he continues to grow as an artist, he said he’s more focused on discovering his own sound.

“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve become more concerned with finding my voice,” he explained. “I’m much more averse to mimicry or anything that feels derivative than I was in the past.”

Even with the sonic shift, Harlow made it clear that he still identifies as a rapper. However, he also wanted “Monica” to highlight a more melodic side of his artistry.

“I love R&B music. I love the sound of soft, intimate, melodic music,” he said.

“Monica” arrives as the follow-up to his 2023 album “Jackman,” marking a new chapter in Harlow’s evolving sound.