"The Nicki mannerisms": Internet in splits as Lil Nas X announces new single, 'HotBox' 

2023 Toronto International Film Festival - "Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero" Premiere - Source: Getty
2023 Toronto International Film Festival - "Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero" Premiere - Source: Getty

The news of Lil Nas X's forthcoming song, HotBox, which is scheduled for release next month, has caused a social media frenzy, at least for those who busted it down to Montero back in the day. Fans' responses to his announcement were all over Twitter, with some being thrilled and others being hilariously perplexed.

In reference to Lil Nas X's exaggerated, diva-like movements in the teaser, which were reminiscent of Nicki Minaj's legendary persona, one fan's comment,

"The Nicki mannerisms" immediately gained notice.

Known for blending humor, bold visuals, and chart-topping tracks, Lil Nas X never fails to keep the internet laughing their 'retweets' off. With HotBox already igniting a wave of speculation and hit tweets, fans are eagerly awaiting what could be the next viral hit.


The internet reacts to Lil Nas X’s playful new teaser as fans await ‘HotBox’

The moment Lil Nas X teased HotBox, Twitter became a hotbed of reactions. Some fans were hyped for what seemed to be a fire single, while others weren’t quite sure what to make of it.

A user expressed their initial confusion, tweeting,

“The way he dancing I thought the song was gonna be fire…🤔”—perhaps expecting something more upbeat.

While the performance initially intrigued fans, the excitement seemed to fizzle once the music started. Another tweeted, hinting that while Lil Nas X has a knack for hooks, the lyrics might not always land for everyone.

“He make catchy music but ahhhhhhhhhjh can’t get with the lyrics”

Then, there were those who couldn't resist poking fun at his apparent borrowing of styles. One Twitter user quipped,

“He had to dip into Saucy Santana’s nachos but they been gone because Santana big,” a humorous jab at the overlap in aesthetic between Lil Nas X and fellow rapper Saucy Santana.

Reminding the artist of an anticipated project fans have been craving for a while, another fan humorously demanded,

“Sir, we still waiting for Light Again on streaming and MV”

Not all responses were purely critical. However, it’s clear Lil Nas X knows how to get the internet buzzing, regardless of mixed opinions, as one fan admitted,

“That sample fire hit then it got ruined when he started talking”

Some fans even found joy in the confusion, with one tweeting,

“At least he is having fun in his flop era.”

Despite all the commentary, one thing was universally agreed upon: Lil Nas X knows how to keep fans entertained.


Lil Nas X: From viral hit to chart-topping star

Since making his debut with Old Town Road, the viral hit that made him a household name, Lil Nas X has had quite the career trajectory. Lil Nas X swiftly made a name for himself as an artist who truly isn't afraid to push boundaries due to his iconic combination of country and trap, as seen in Old Town Road and Montero—which won him several awards.

However, some have referred to this present stage of his career (the HotBox era, as we like to call it) as a "flop era" after his spectacular debut. Lil Nas X maintains his relevance in spite of this label by embracing his identity, creating daring music videos, and jokingly interacting with followers on social media.

Even before its release, his next song, HotBox, has already taken the internet by storm. Although there aren't many specifics yet, it's obvious that the song will probably carry on the artist's tradition of fusing oh-so-catchy beats with thought-provoking words and imagery. Lil Nas X, who is renowned for consistently surprising listeners with his music, demeanor, or avant-garde marketing, has sparked enthusiasm once more.

It's impossible to predict what surprises HotBox may have in store as he continues into his post-Montero phase. Despite the fact that some refer to this time as a "flop era," Lil Nas X's ability to reinvent himself makes him a fascinating character in the music industry. Fans are elated as they (and I) prepare to stream HotBox!

Edited by Sangeeta Mathew
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