Jack Harlow Says He 'Got Blacker' on His New Album 'Monica'

The rapper opened up about his sonic approach to his latest project.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:56pm

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In a recent interview on The New York Times' Popcast, rapper Jack Harlow discussed his decision to take an R&B route for his fourth studio album 'Monica', rather than retreating to a 'whiter genre'. Harlow said he 'got Blacker' on the new album, explaining that he loves 'Black music' and its sound, and ultimately chose the route that felt best to him.

Why it matters

Harlow's comments highlight the challenges and perceptions that white rappers can face when exploring different musical styles, with the hosts noting that white rappers are often given more leeway to 'change their genre at will' compared to Black artists. Harlow's decision to embrace a more R&B-influenced sound on 'Monica' represents a 'radical twist' from the typical path taken by white rappers.

The details

In the interview, Harlow explained that as he's gotten older, he's become more concerned with finding his own unique voice, rather than mimicking others or trying to fit into a certain mold. He said he's looking to 'carve out [his] own island' and is 'less concerned with how immediately big [he] can make that island'.

  • Jack Harlow's fourth studio album 'Monica' was released on March 13, 2026.

The players

Jack Harlow

A 28-year-old rapper who recently released his fourth studio album 'Monica'.

Joe Coscarelli

A co-host of The New York Times' Popcast, who discussed Harlow's musical approach with the rapper.

Jon Caramanica

A co-host of The New York Times' Popcast, who also participated in the discussion with Harlow.

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What they’re saying

“Definitely. I think there is something about being a white rapper that first puts the chip on your shoulder, and then you prove yourself... you become accepted... and then you have the privilege, the ability to say, 'I rapped my ass off. I'm not gonna do that anymore, at least for now.'”

— Joe Coscarelli, Co-host, The New York Times' Popcast

“I got Blacker.”

— Jack Harlow

“I'm not gonna pretend, with what you're talking about, that I was like, huh, I guess you're right! I knew that there were multiple things appealing about this route, but I also came to the decision, I'm proud to say, off of what feels good in my ear.”

— Jack Harlow

The takeaway

Harlow's comments highlight the complex dynamics and perceptions that white artists can face when exploring different musical styles, particularly in the rap and R&B genres. His decision to embrace a more R&B-influenced sound on 'Monica' represents a bold artistic choice that challenges the typical path taken by white rappers, as he seeks to carve out his own unique musical identity.