Lil Uzi Vert announces ‘Barter 16’ mixtape
Lil Uzi Vert, the eccentric and enigmatic rapper who recently scored his third No. 1 album with Pink Tape, has announced his next project: a mixtape titled Barter 16.
The title is a clear homage to Young Thug’s 2015 mixtape Barter 6, which was itself a controversial nod to Lil Wayne’s Tha Carter series.
Lil Uzi Vert revealed his plans for Barter 16 shortly after Pink Tape became the first hip-hop album to top the Billboard 200 chart in 2023, ending a 36-week drought for the genre.
He wrote on his Instagram Stories: “Sitting here thinking /bout how I went #1 on a experimental tape.”
He then added: “I think I’m going to drop Barter 16 next.”
The announcement surprised and excited many fans, who wondered what Lil Uzi Vert would do with Young Thug’s influence and legacy.
Some also speculated that the mixtape might feature collaborations with other artists who are close to Thugger, such as Gunna, Lil Baby, and Future.
Birdman shows interest in ‘Barter 16’
One of the artists who seems to be interested in working with Lil Uzi Vert on Barter 16 is none other than Birdman, the co-founder of Cash Money Records and Young Thug’s mentor and friend.
Birdman raised eyebrows when he shared a photo of him and Lil Uzi Vert in the studio, along with producer London On Da Track, who was behind most of the beats on Barter 6.
Birdman posted the photo on his Instagram Stories on Tuesday (August 1), with the caption: “THUGGIN @liluzivert @londonondatrack STUNNAMAN RICHGANG @cashmoneyofficial.” In the photo, Lil Uzi Vert can be seen laying down vocals in the booth, while Birdman sits on a sofa behind him, and London leans on the wall next to them.
The photo sparked curiosity and confusion among fans, who wondered if Birdman was actually involved in Barter 16, or if he just Photoshopped himself into the picture.
Some fans also joked that Birdman might try to sign Lil Uzi Vert to Cash Money, or take a cut of his earnings.
However, some fans also expressed their excitement and anticipation for Barter 16, especially if it features Birdman and London On Da Track.
They hoped that the mixtape would capture the same vibe and energy as Barter 6, which is widely regarded as one of Young Thug’s best and most influential projects.
Lil Uzi Vert channels Young Thug for ‘Barter 16’
Lil Uzi Vert has not revealed much details about Barter 16, such as its release date, tracklist, or cover art. However, he has shown that he is fully embracing Young Thug’s style and spirit for the mixtape. He has even dressed up like Young Thug while working on the project in the studio.
In July, NoJumper shared a video of Lil Uzi Vert sporting a white suit that Young Thug previously wore, along with a red bandana that looks identical to the one on the cover of Barter 6. He also threw up some gang signs that are associated with Young Thug and his YSL label.
Lil Uzi Vert has also teased some snippets of songs from Barter 16 on his social media accounts, which sound similar to Young Thug’s melodic and experimental rap. He has also hinted that he might be working on some music videos for the mixtape, which could be inspired by Young Thug’s colorful and creative visuals.
Conclusion
Lil Uzi Vert is one of the most popular and influential rappers in the game right now.
He is also one of the most unpredictable and adventurous artists, who is not afraid to try new things and pay tribute to his idols.
His upcoming mixtape Barter 16 is a testament to his admiration and respect for Young Thug, who is one of his biggest inspirations and influences.
Barter 16 is expected to be one of the most anticipated and talked-about releases of 2023.
Fans are eager to hear what Lil Uzi Vert will do with Young Thug’s legacy and sound.
They are also curious to see who else will be featured on the mixtape, and how it will compare to Barter 6.
