Tory Lanez Claims Quarantine Radio Paved the Way for Modern Streamers
Tory Lanez, once a mid-level Toronto artist, gained widespread recognition during the pandemic for his innovative social media venture, Quarantine Radio. The live-streaming series offered fans entertainment during lockdown and significantly boosted Lanez’s popularity. Now, even while incarcerated, the rapper is seeking recognition for the influence he believes Quarantine Radio had on today’s streaming culture.
“I Crawled So They Could Walk”
Lanez took to social media recently to highlight the impact of Quarantine Radio. Sharing an image from his 2020 series, he captioned: “POV: It’s 2020, You stuck inside and just opened Instagram.” He further asserted that his platform laid the groundwork for popular streamers like Adin Ross and Kai Cenat, stating, “I crawled so the streaming community could walk,” accompanied by the hashtag #QuarantineRadio.
The claim sparked discussion among fans, with many acknowledging the significance of Quarantine Radio. The show, known for its blend of music, humor, and celebrity appearances, became a viral sensation. However, its run was cut short when Instagram banned it for violating community guidelines. Adam Mosseri, Instagram’s CEO, addressed the ban, admitting to being a fan of the platform but emphasizing the need to enforce rules.
Quarantine Radio’s Legacy
Quarantine Radio was a major cultural moment during the pandemic, with its unique format influencing how artists and creators engage with their audiences online. Lanez believes this success cemented his place as a pioneer in the streaming world. However, his time in the spotlight has since been overshadowed by legal troubles, including his incarceration.
Despite these challenges, Lanez has continued to find ways to connect with fans. Before a September prison raid halted his Prison Tapes series, Lanez claimed the project was inspiring inmates. “The higher-ups figured out what I was really doing with the Prison Tapes and how many inmates were being helped in a life-changing way because of them,” he shared during an Instagram Live rant.
Continuing to Make Music
Lanez’s creativity persists even behind bars. He recently contributed a verse to DDG’s song “Handling Business,” reportedly recorded using an iPhone. Although his output has been restricted, the rapper remains determined to maintain his presence in the music industry.
A Divisive Legacy
While Lanez’s influence on streaming culture and hip-hop is undeniable, his legal battles and personal controversies have complicated his legacy. Fans and critics alike continue to debate his contributions to the entertainment world, with Quarantine Radio serving as a reminder of his ability to innovate and captivate audiences.
As Lanez seeks recognition for his pioneering work, the conversation around his career highlights the complex intersection of talent, controversy, and cultural impact. Whether or not history will remember Lanez as a trailblazer in streaming remains to be seen, but for now, his claim to shaping the streaming landscape has reignited interest in his past successes.
