Los Angeles rapper Cletus Strap has announced his forthcoming album, rappers suck., set for release on August 7 via Tan Cressida Records. Alongside the announcement, the rising underground artist has unveiled the project’s lead single, “chilli,” offering the first glimpse into a new creative chapter shaped by personal growth, sharp social commentary, and his unmistakably laid-back delivery.
Written in a beach house in Oxnard, California while touring with hardcore band Zulu, “chilli” showcases Cletus Strap’s signature blend of introspective lyricism, dry humor, and effortless wordplay. Floating over understated production, the track reflects on life experiences while maintaining the relaxed flow that has earned him a devoted following within the underground hip-hop community.
Executive produced by Earl Sweatshirt, rappers suck. marks Cletus Strap’s first official release after signing with Tan Cressida Records. Across eight tracks, the project explores the increasingly commercialized landscape of modern rap, challenging the culture surrounding clout, algorithms, and viral snippet-driven success while embracing the contradictions that exist within the genre itself.
Inspired by the iconic 1993 Droors “Ravers Suck” T-shirt, the album blends satire with cultural critique, offering a thoughtful examination of hip-hop without distancing itself from the community it represents. Guest appearances come from Earl Sweatshirt and VIP SKYLARK, while production is handled by Laron, Omari Lyseight, madmax4800, and Cam The Chef.
Reflecting on the album’s concept, Cletus Strap explains:
“There’s a divide in hip hop between creativity and technical skill. It’s highly commercialized but somehow culturally niche and sacred while globally influential. Because of the accessibility and illusion of effortlessness, there’s a lack of respect for rap as an art form. Rappers distancing themselves from the title, calling themselves ‘artists’ instead, is contradicting the plight.”
Despite the provocative title, Cletus Strap emphasizes that the album isn’t intended as an attack on rap culture but rather a commentary on how artists perceive their role within it.
“I really wanted to poke fun at the superficiality of these narratives. This is me owning the title and taking the heat that comes with it. On this project I didn’t make any beats, shoot or edit the videos. I’m just the rapper.”
The album also reflects a personal shift for the Inglewood native, whose evolving friendships, relationships, and pursuit of a sustainable music career have inspired him to move away from glorifying negativity while preserving the raw honesty that defines his work.
A longtime fixture in Los Angeles’ underground hip-hop scene, Cletus Strap has previously released a string of independent projects through his Chill As Fuck imprint. Beyond his solo work, he is also a drummer for hip-hop-influenced jazz ensemble Sparker, further showcasing his versatility as a musician.
His relationship with Earl Sweatshirt has steadily developed through years of studio collaborations before culminating in this release. After discovering one of Cletus Strap’s earlier EPs, Earl Sweatshirt invited him to join the 2025 3LWorld Tour, laying the foundation for a creative partnership that continues with rappers suck. The collaboration highlights a shared artistic vision while allowing Cletus Strap to further refine his own voice rather than compromise it.
Later this year, Cletus Strap will also join MIKE, Earl Sweatshirt, SURF GANG, and additional artists on the Home on the Range Tour across North America.
With rappers suck., Cletus Strap delivers a thoughtful and self-aware statement that questions hip-hop’s current landscape while celebrating the craft itself. Anchored by the release of “chilli,” the project positions the rapper for his biggest chapter yet while remaining firmly rooted in the authenticity that has defined his rise.
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