Jack Harlow Recalls Feeling ‘Sexually Attracted’ to Fergie at Age 8: ‘She Was an Awakening for Me’

**Jack Harlow Reflects on Childhood Crush on Fergie**

In a candid interview with *Rolling Stone*, American rapper Jack Harlow recently opened up about his early admiration for singer Fergie, revealing that he had a significant crush on her as a child. The artist, now 28, shared how this infatuation played a pivotal role in his life, especially as he navigated his early musical interests.

Harlow recounted a memorable incident from his elementary school days when he auditioned for a talent show with the song “Fergalicious,” a hit he admired for its infectious tempo and Fergie’s compelling rap verse. “I just liked the song. I loved her. Fergie has always been huge to me,” he expressed, emphasising the impact the pop star had on him from a young age.

What makes Harlow’s recollection particularly striking is his acknowledgement of feelings that went beyond mere admiration. “I was eight years old, but I was sexually attracted to her. Like she was an awakening for me. But also I loved the music,” he said, illustrating the dual significance of Fergie’s artistry in his formative years. He admitted, however, that his school did not allow him to perform “Fergalicious” because they deemed it too risqué, relegating him to a behind-the-scenes role.

Despite this setback, Harlow eventually realised his dream of collaborating with the singer. He opened the 2022 MTV Video Music Awards with a performance of his track “First Class,” which prominently features a sample from Fergie’s “Glamorous.” The performance was made even more memorable by Fergie’s surprise appearance alongside him, delighting fans and attendees alike.

Prior to this momentous performance, Harlow had expressed his artistic connection to Fergie in conversations with various media outlets. He indicated a long-standing desire to honour her influence in his music, stating, “I’ve been wanting to do that for a while, and it just came together, and I figured it’s time.” This demonstrates Harlow’s deep respect for Fergie’s impact on his artistic journey.

Harlow’s musical career has seen significant growth since he released his debut studio album *Thats What They All Say* in 2020. His subsequent albums, including *Come Home the Kids Miss You* in 2022, *Jackman* in 2023, and *Monica* in 2026, have showcased his evolution as an artist. Recently, he shared insights into his artistic development during an appearance on *The New York Times’ Popcast*.

In his reflection, Harlow noted the importance of finding his unique voice as he matures as an artist. “As I’ve gotten older, I’ve become more concerned with finding my voice,” he stated, indicating a shift away from mimicking others in favour of developing an authentic musical identity. This quest for originality appears to inform his upcoming projects and artistic choices.

Harlow’s journey from a child with a crush on a pop star to a successful musician himself highlights the intertwined nature of admiration and inspiration in the music industry. For many fans, such connections can serve as powerful motivators for pursuing their passions, and Harlow’s story exemplifies this sentiment.

The recent revelations from Harlow represent not only a nostalgic reflection on his childhood but also an appreciation for a career that has been heavily influenced by artists like Fergie. The blend of personal experiences and musical growth continues to resonate with listeners, paving the way for future projects that promise to reflect his evolving artistry and the influences that shaped him.