LaKeith Stanfield is preparing to release his debut album through Def Jam Recordings, following the recent drop of his single “Fast Life,” featuring Kid Cudi. The multi-talented actor and musician is balancing this musical endeavor alongside his busy film schedule, including the recent Amazon Prime release of Play Dirty and the upcoming theatrical debut of Roofman on October 10.
Details on Stanfield’s Upcoming Album and Its Musical Style
Although LaKeith Stanfield has been involved in music for several years, with singles like “Kid Soldier” and “Automatic” released back in 2019, he is now finalizing his first full-length project. The album promises a variety of sounds and collaborations, showcasing his broad artistic range. Stanfield shared his excitement in a recent interview with Ash Crossan of Screen Rant, revealing the album is close to completion.
I’m working on it now, and it will be dropping. It will give people a cornucopia of different sounds that I’ve been on, and have guest features with people I love. So yeah, it’s going to be sweet.
— LaKeith Stanfield, Musician and Actor
Insight Into Stanfield’s Personal Journey Reflected in His Music
Known for his versatile film roles over the past decade, including appearances alongside Mark Wahlberg and Channing Tatum, Stanfield aims to reveal more of his authentic self through his music. His debut album is positioned as a more intimate window into his identity than any interview has been able to provide.
I would say that no interview has given a perspective into who I really am as much as my music will,
Stanfield said.
And I also think that I am on a consistent healing journey, and part of that journey is chronicled through my music—while making things that I like to dance to.
— LaKeith Stanfield, Musician and Actor
Visual Storytelling and Collaborations on “Fast Life”
The first single off the album, “Fast Life,” features a falsetto-driven, soulful sound that explores a captivating story of a woman who captivates his mind. The accompanying video portrays Stanfield in a dreamlike scenario intertwined with a tense encounter, with appearances from actors John Boyega and David Oyelowo. Directed by Jeymes Samuel—who has collaborated with Stanfield on films such as The Harder They Fall and The Book of Clarence—the video adds a cinematic layer to the music, enhancing the emotional depth.
The Significance of Stanfield’s Debut Album in His Artistic Career
With his roots in California and a steadily growing presence in film and television, including projects like Get Out and Atlanta, Stanfield’s debut album marks a pivotal moment in his artistic expression. It offers fans an opportunity to experience a different, more personal side of the artist known primarily for his on-screen work. Although the release date remains unconfirmed, the musical direction hinted at by “Fast Life” suggests the album will deliver a rich and soulful listening experience.
As Stanfield continues balancing acting roles and music production, this debut album has the potential to deepen his connection with audiences and expand his creative footprint in both industries.
