Earl Sweatshirt, born Thebe Neruda Kgositsile in Los Angeles in 1994, is an American rapper, producer, and DJ celebrated for his innovative approach to hip-hop and underground music. A founding member of the influential collective Odd Future, Earl emerged as a prodigious lyricist in his teens, releasing his acclaimed debut mixtape *Earl* in 2010. His emotionally resonant storytelling, intricate wordplay, and lo-fi production set him apart as one of his generation’s most introspective voices.
In addition to his lauded albums, including *Doris* (2013), *I Don’t Like Shit, I Don’t Go Outside* (2015), and *Some Rap Songs* (2018), Earl developed a parallel career as a DJ, drawing from an eclectic palette that spans underground hip-hop, experimental beats, soul, and alternative music. His DJ sets are recognized for their atmospheric curation and deep knowledge of crate-digging, connecting classic influences with emerging sounds. Earl’s artistry is marked by a raw vulnerability and refusal to conform to commercial trends, earning him a devoted following and critical acclaim.
He frequently collaborates with like-minded artists while producing under various monikers, further expanding his musical identity. Through both his solo work and collaborations, he continues to push boundaries in music and DJ culture, establishing himself as an influential figure in contemporary hip-hop and experimental music scenes.