**T.I. Announces Retirement from Music, Reflects on Career and Family Focus**
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In a candid interview for this week’s issue of PEOPLE, renowned rapper T.I. revealed his decision to retire from music following the release of his final album, “Kill the King.” At the age of 45, the Atlanta native shared insights into his shifting priorities, emphasising a newfound focus on family as he steps back from the music industry.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is evident in T.I.’s perspective. He admitted that the prolonged downtime during lockdowns prompted significant changes in his lifestyle. “I had been living a retired life for some time, probably since the pandemic,” he explained. The rapper noted he had become accustomed to spending more time at home and felt less inclined to engage in the intensive work that a music career demands.
Despite his decision to retire, T.I. felt a responsibility to leave his fans with one final project. “I don’t think that I could just disappear all of a sudden,” he remarked. The rapper, whose real name is Clifford Joseph Harris Jr., expressed that he wanted to conclude his musical journey with a statement of gratitude. “To have a project and say, ‘Hey man, this is it. Thank you for all the love and support. I’ll catch y’all on the flip side,’” he articulated.
Known as the self-proclaimed ‘King of the South,’ T.I. has enjoyed a prolific career filled with numerous chart-topping hits, such as “Whatever You Like” and “Live Your Life,” featuring Rihanna. Reflecting on his legacy, he discussed how he embraced the title of ‘King of the South’ with respect and care, seeking validation from influential predecessors in the industry before declaring it.
Recounting advice from Big Boi of Outkast, T.I. revealed deeper nuances of that title. “Big Boi said, ‘Just understand you going to put a bullseye on your back. Ain’t nobody going to be looking to do no favours for you,’” he recalled. This early conversation informed the title of his last album, a poignant reminder of the battles faced in the music industry.
One of the standout tracks from “Kill the King,” the Pharrell Williams-produced single “Let ‘Em Know,” has already achieved considerable success, climbing to the top of the Billboard R&B and hip-hop charts. T.I. expressed his confidence in the song’s potential, stating, “I knew it was going to go, I just didn’t know how fast and how far.”
Their collaboration came about in a rather unique setting—recording the track on a yacht in the Atlantic Ocean. T.I. affirmed that inspiration for his music often arises from personal experiences and moments of clarity. “The things I write are inspired by life experiences, memories, interactions, epiphanies,” he explained.
As he prepares to transition from a performing artist to a supportive father figure in the industry, T.I. mentioned his desire to pass the torch to his sons, Domani and King, who are also pursuing music careers. With a sense of fulfilment, he stated, “I still enjoy recording and performing, but I think maybe because my sons are getting so much older and entering into the business, it feels like I’ve gotten everything I prayed for from the game.”
With “Kill the King” marking the end of an era in T.I.’s career, he is eager to embrace a new chapter focused on family and personal growth. His reflections illustrate not just a farewell to music but a celebration of the journey and a heartfelt acknowledgment of the connections forged along the way. As he steps into retirement, T.I. leaves behind a legacy that will undoubtedly inspire future generations of artists.