YFN Lucci Stages Comeback After Prison Release

Atlanta rapper navigates new chapter with focus on family, sobriety and business ventures

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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After nearly four years in prison, Atlanta rapper YFN Lucci is making a strong comeback with the release of his album "Already Legend" in September 2025. The album has already moved 28,800 equivalent album units, signaling a successful return. Lucci faced RICO charges but has emerged with a renewed focus on family, sobriety and expanding his business ventures beyond music, including launching his own record label and pursuing real estate investments.

Why it matters

Lucci's story represents the challenges and resilience of artists navigating the criminal justice system, as well as the potential for redemption and growth. His comeback aligns with a period of reflection within the Atlanta hip-hop scene, where unity and collaboration are seen as paths forward. Lucci's diversification into business ventures beyond music mirrors strategies employed by other successful artists, suggesting a model for long-term sustainability.

The details

Lucci faced 13 RICO charges, ultimately pleading guilty to one violation of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act. After nearly four years in prison, he was released in January 2025. Since his release, Lucci has launched his own label, Already Legend, and signed fellow Atlanta rapper BHM Pezzy. Probation stipulations have also led Lucci to focus on sobriety and shift his priorities to family, music and business. He's actively pursuing real estate investments and expressed interest in an acting career.

  • Lucci was released from prison in January 2025.
  • His album "Already Legend" was released on September 26, 2025.

The players

YFN Lucci

An Atlanta rapper who was released from prison in January 2025 after nearly four years, and has since launched a successful comeback with his album "Already Legend".

BHM Pezzy

An Atlanta rapper who has been signed to Lucci's new label, Already Legend.

Gilles

Lucci's creative director, who played a crucial mentorship role during his incarceration.

21 Savage

An Atlanta rapper who brokered a truce with Young Thug, resulting in collaborations on their respective albums, exemplifying the potential for reconciliation within the Atlanta hip-hop scene.

Young Thug

An Atlanta rapper who collaborated with 21 Savage on their respective albums, following a truce brokered by 21 Savage.

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What they’re saying

“A lot of sh*t don't matter; only the family, my music, my business and my time.”

— YFN Lucci

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

Lucci's creative director, Gilles, played a crucial role during his incarceration, providing books and a space for strategic planning. This mentorship highlights the importance of a strong support system for artists navigating challenging circumstances. Lucci's commitment to avoiding past mistakes and focusing on his future is evident in his newfound sobriety and business acumen.

The takeaway

Lucci's comeback story demonstrates the power of resilience and the potential for artists to reinvent themselves after facing significant challenges. His diversification into business ventures beyond music, coupled with a renewed focus on family and sobriety, suggests a model for long-term sustainability in the music industry.