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Lil Nas X Faces Backlash Over Artwork Similarities Ahead of New Single “Light Again!”
Pop sensation Lil Nas X is accused of biting indie artist Sega Bodega’s artwork for his latest rollout.
Lil Nas X is already facing criticism for his new DREAMBOY. album rollout. On Wednesday, November 13, he shared the cover art for his latest single, “Light Again!,” which is set to drop on Friday, November 15, at midnight. However, fans quickly noticed the artwork’s striking resemblance to that of Sega Bodega’s 2021 project, Angel On My Shoulder. Both covers feature wooden-paneled rooms, an old computer, and a ghostly figure, sparking accusations of uncredited inspiration.
not even trying to put a spin on it is where I’m like yeesh https://t.co/lY5gkug8b3— sega bodega (@segabodega) November 13, 2024
Sega Bodega himself weighed in, quote-tweeting,
“Not even trying to put a spin on it is where I’m like, ‘Yeesh.’”
Sega Bodega reacts to Lil Nas X using him as a reference for new era artwork:
“Not even trying to put a spin on it is where I’m like yeesh.” pic.twitter.com/ePuXCaoEGF— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) November 13, 2024
In response, Lil Nas X acknowledged the similarity on his Instagram Story, calling Sega Bodega’s cover a “reference.” But his comments did little to quell criticism from fans, with one Twitter user commenting, “Stop stealing from smaller artists.” Another expressed disappointment, saying, “Your team is not handling this rollout [too] well.”
A Journey Through DREAMBOY.
Despite the rocky start, Lil Nas X remains optimistic about DREAMBOY., describing it as deeply personal. His initial Instagram caption for “Light Again!” read,
“It just dawned on me how lucky I am to have all of you that still f**k with me [because] I know it isn’t always easy! DREAMBOY. isn’t just an album. It’s me coping with the loss of what once was and fighting for a new world. I’m so excited to bring you on the journey.”
This new album follows Lil Nas X’s acclaimed 2021 debut, MONTERO, which featured hits like “MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name),” “THATS WHAT I WANT,” and “INDUSTRY BABY” with Jack Harlow. MONTERO debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, showcasing collaborations with major artists such as Doja Cat, Miley Cyrus, Megan Thee Stallion, and Elton John.
While Lil Nas X has yet to confirm if his earlier 2024 single, “J CHRIST,” will be included on DREAMBOY., fans eagerly await DREAMBOY. as the next evolution of the rapper’s genre-defying journey.
