Young Thug made a triumphant return to the stage at Summer Smash on June 22, delivering an electrifying performance that marked his first live show since his release from jail last year. The Atlanta rap icon didn’t come alone—he brought a wave of energy, surprise guests, and brand new music that set the internet ablaze.
The headlining set featured the debut of a new track from Thugger’s upcoming album Uy Scuti, which he performed alongside fellow Atlanta native Ken Carson. Though the song’s title remains unrevealed, the crowd went wild as the two traded verses on the unreleased banger. Fans caught part of the hook: “My bitch, she bad / She stay stone cold / Where the diamonds at / She inside her nose.” Social media lit up with clips of the moment, fueling anticipation for the album’s release.
As if that weren’t enough, Travis Scott joined Thug onstage in one of the night’s most explosive moments. Together, they delivered a high-octane performance that had the audience at Chicago’s SeatGeek Stadium roaring. Thugger also ran through a medley of his greatest hits, reminding everyone why he’s long been considered one of hip-hop’s most influential voices.
Thug’s return to Summer Smash was particularly symbolic. In 2022, he was scheduled to perform at the festival alongside Gunna, but their arrests on RICO charges derailed those plans. Now, two years later, Thug is back—stronger and more focused than ever. Elliot Montanez, director of operations at Lyrical Lemonade, reflected on the moment: “In a weird way, all of that happened with Summer Smash being one of the shows he was about to do before he went away for a little bit, and now Summer Smash being the first show [he’s doing] fresh out, it is full circle.”
Though the date for Uy Scuti has yet to be confirmed, Thug previously promised fans the album would drop in June. With just days left in the month, excitement continues to build, especially after the new material premiered live on stage.
Outside of music, Young Thug has also been dabbling in a possible career pivot. Appearing recently on Adin Ross’ Kick livestream, Thugger joked about quitting music to become a full-time streamer. After learning how much Ross earns from streaming, Thug said, “I’ma stop doing music and start streaming. I think I’m gonna stop.” He went on to explain his fascination with the streaming lifestyle: “Y’all live a cool life. Y’all go everywhere everyday. Y’all got cats wondering around this bitch. Y’all got all types of crazy stuff.”
While he may be tempted by the streaming world, Saturday night’s performance was a clear reminder that music is still Thugger’s domain. With Uy Scuti on the horizon and momentum back in full swing, Young Thug’s comeback is in motion—and fans are ready.
