Award-winning American rapper and multi-talented music producer, Tyler, The Creator, has stirred conversations once again, but this time not with a new album or tour announcement. Instead, the 33-year-old artist has candidly revealed just how deeply music defines his life—claiming he loves music more than any romantic partner he’s ever had.
In a recent Instagram Live conversation, Tyler, born Tyler Gregory Okonma, opened up about his enduring relationship with music. For the Grammy-winning artist, music has not only been a passion but the foundation of his identity since childhood.
“Music for me is not just a hobby. As a kid, I didn’t really play with toys, I liked CDs,” he said. “I love when my mom takes me to the storehouse because I would just sit near CD collections, reading the credits. That was the greatest thing for me.”
The rapper, who rose to fame as a founding member of the provocative hip-hop collective Odd Future, detailed how even early childhood memories are tied more to soundtracks and album booklets than to cartoons or action figures.
“I was attending birthday parties, I was at Warehouse Music,” he added. “I love music so much, more than any girl I’ve ever dated, and they know. I told them, ‘I like you, but you would never come above music.’ Me making music would be forever.”
Tyler’s remarks have sparked both admiration and debate among fans online, especially given the transparency with which he placed music above his romantic life. Known for his introspective lyrics and genre-defying albums like Flower Boy, IGOR, and Call Me If You Get Lost, Tyler has consistently used his art to reveal layers of his personality.
This new revelation adds to a long list of moments where Tyler has challenged societal norms—not just about music, but about masculinity, vulnerability, and emotional honesty in hip-hop.
For many, his words resonate beyond entertainment. In an era where artists are pressured to balance fame, relationships, and personal wellness, Tyler’s prioritization of creative expression sends a powerful message to younger generations of musicians and fans.
Tyler’s intense love for music has paid off. He has won two Grammy Awards for Best Rap Album, launched his fashion line Golf Wang, and scored high-profile brand partnerships, all while maintaining full creative control over his work. His unique sound, which blends rap, jazz, funk, and neo-soul, has placed him at the forefront of progressive hip-hop artistry.
He is also widely respected for producing, directing, and editing his own music videos, showcasing a level of autonomy rarely seen in the music industry.
Following his Instagram comments, fans flooded social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok with mixed reactions. Some praised Tyler’s dedication to his craft, while others wondered whether such a mindset could negatively affect his personal relationships.
“Honestly, I get it. Some people are married to their purpose—and for Tyler, music is clearly that soulmate,” a fan posted on X.
“I hope he still finds balance though. Love—both personal and creative—can coexist,” another user added.
This isn’t the first time Tyler has spoken about his love for music overtaking other aspects of his life. In multiple interviews over the years, he has described himself as obsessive when in album mode, often isolating himself to dive deep into the creative process.
His most recent album, Call Me If You Get Lost: The Estate Sale, a deluxe edition released in 2023, reaffirmed his place in the global music scene and proved that his musical obsession continues to fuel his evolution.
Tyler, The Creator’s latest confession isn’t just a soundbite—it’s a window into the heart of a man who has always marched to the beat of his own drum. Whether fans agree with his prioritization or not, one thing is certain: music isn’t just a career for Tyler—it’s his truest, most enduring love story.