Lil Zay Osama, a Chicago-based rapper known for his distinctive “pain music,” has undeniably made a comeback with the release of his track ‘Had Nun,’ featured in the newly released Fast X soundtrack. The soundtrack debuted on the same day as the 10th installment of the franchise, featuring a diverse collection of 21 tracks from artists worldwide, including Lil Durk, EST Gee, Kane Brown, J Balvin, and many others. With such an impressive lineup, it’s clear that Lil Zay Osama’s addition to the list signifies his resurgence in the music industry following his encounter with the law.
Osama’s unique blend of hard-hitting lyrics and raw delivery made him one of the most compelling voices in the Chicago music scene. His songs often shed light on heartrending tales from the streets, resonating with many who’ve experienced similar hardships. Osama’s music, underscored by booming drums and melancholy melodies, speaks directly to the hearts and souls of those born in the trenches. The track ‘Had Nun’ is no different, and its growing number of streams is proof of its widespread appeal.
This promising young artist has had his fair share of legal troubles, which he’s managed to turn into lessons that infuse his music with raw authenticity. At 15, Osama was shot during a crime, leading to a sentence that would see him complete high school in a youth detention center. During this time, Osama honed his writing and rapping skills, awaiting his release with a fervor that fueled his passion for music. Upon his release, he used every resource available to him to fund his music production, even if it meant straddling the line of the law.
This street-hardened approach to his craft resulted in tracks like ‘Changed Up,’ a haunting song about loyalty, betrayal, and struggle that grabbed Warner Records’ attention and helped establish Osama’s reputation as a powerful storyteller. His album ‘Hood Bible,’ while showcasing his versatility across different genres, continued to tell tales of the streets and survival. Now, with ‘Had Nun,’ Lil Zay Osama seems to be returning to his roots, further refining the “pain music” that made him one of the most compelling storytellers in the rap industry.
Osama’s collaboration with Bronx emcee Sha EK on the remix of ‘Never Want To Be Them,’ another popular track, also shows his intent to leave a substantial mark on the industry. The track, originally from Sha’s 2022 LP ‘Face of the What,’ was built on an evil-sounding beat by 083Chee, and Osama’s quick cameo only added a looser, more wholesome element to the tightly wound track.
‘Had Nun’ and its rapid increase in streams suggest that Lil Zay Osama is back in business. His deep, authentic narratives continue to speak to listeners worldwide, touching on the realities of street life and survival. This young talent’s return is not just a personal triumph but a victory for the music industry that values raw storytelling and heartfelt expression.
With the Fast X soundtrack as a launching pad, it’s exciting to see what Lil Zay Osama’s next chapter in his music journey will be. With his unwavering commitment to his craft and his authentic portrayal of life on the streets, it’s safe to say that Lil Zay Osama is back and ready to continue making music that speaks to the hearts of people across the globe.
