Lil Mabu, a name that’s been buzzing in the music world, is no stranger to those who follow the evolving landscape of hip-hop, particularly New York drill.
His rapid rise to fame is undeniable, and despite his youth, his presence in the music industry has already been felt across platforms.
But how old is Lil Mabu, and how does his age shape his journey to stardom? This article will delve deep into his age, background, career milestones, and how his youth influences his music and public image.
Who is Lil Mabu?
Lil Mabu’s Early Life and Background
Matthew Peter DeLuca, known professionally as Lil Mabu, was born in New York City—a city that has shaped many rap legends.
Growing up in Brooklyn, he was exposed to a wide array of musical influences from a young age. He wasn’t just influenced by hip-hop; his tastes were shaped by the likes of Frank Sinatra, Nicki Minaj, and 21 Savage.
Lil Mabu’s early years were marked by a combination of traditional schooling, musical exploration, and, ultimately, his immersion into the world of rap.
From New York to Atlanta: Lil Mabu’s College Journey
Lil Mabu’s life took a pivotal turn when he moved to Atlanta for college.
At Emory University, he found himself immersed in a fresh environment that encouraged his love for music while pursuing a business degree.
But it wasn’t just academia that grabbed his attention—Drill music culture and the sounds of artists like Fivio Foreign, Kay Flock, and DD Osama began to define his style.
Emory’s diverse student body exposed him to new genres, which influenced his sound as he experimented with elements of club music alongside the gritty intensity of drill.
How Old is Lil Mabu?
Lil Mabu’s Birth Date and Age
Lil Mabu was born on April 4, 2005, making him 19 years old as of 2025.
His youth hasn’t held him back in the slightest—quite the opposite. His ability to juggle both his academic pursuits at Emory University and his rapidly expanding music career showcases his remarkable work ethic.
His fans are keenly aware of his age, which only adds to the fascination with his story: a young, college-bound rapper making waves in a notoriously competitive industry.
Growing Up in Brooklyn: Lil Mabu’s Roots
Lil Mabu’s hometown of Bensonhurst and Bay Ridge, both neighborhoods in Brooklyn, played a crucial role in shaping his identity as an artist.
New York City has long been a hub for hip-hop culture, and it’s no surprise that Lil Mabu’s music reflects this vibrant, fast-paced city.
The New York drill sound, which has become a staple of the city’s rap scene, influences much of his work. His age allows him to draw from both the classic era of hip-hop and the more modern drill movement.
The Impact of Lil Mabu’s Age on His Career
The Young Genius: Balancing College and Music
Lil Mabu is often described as a “young genius” because of his ability to balance higher education with a rapidly growing music career.
He’s not just another college rapper—he’s strategically using his business mindset to navigate the music industry.
His label, Young Genius Academy Inc., is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit, allowing him to self-release music while staying connected to his roots.
Despite being relatively new to the game, Lil Mabu’s music has already caught the attention of major artists like Fivio Foreign, who collaborated with him on the track “Teach Me How to Drill”.
This partnership marked a significant milestone in Lil Mabu’s career, highlighting his crossover potential into mainstream success.
His ability to maintain a public image as a college student while embracing his musical ambitions shows a depth of understanding that is rare for an artist his age.
Age as a Double-Edged Sword
While his youth has certainly been an asset in terms of virality, it has also exposed him to criticism.
Some skeptics accuse him of cultural appropriation, especially in relation to his exploration of New York drill music, a genre historically associated with the city’s inner streets.
However, Lil Mabu embraces the controversy, using it to fuel his public persona. His viral moments, such as his viral videos and humorous takes on rap culture, have kept his fanbase engaged while also helping him navigate these criticisms.
Lil Mabu’s Career Highlights
Early Music and Breakout Hits
Lil Mabu began his musical journey on SoundCloud, where he released his first track, “Blue”, in 2020.
The song quickly gained traction, and from there, Lil Mabu’s career skyrocketed. His ability to generate buzz on platforms like TikTok and Instagram helped him build a loyal following early on.
His viral videos and stunts, including his references to movies like 8 Mile and playful jabs at artists like YoungBoy Never Broke Again, solidified his presence online.
His music videos—often high-energy and visually engaging—helped him carve out a niche in the drill music scene while appealing to a broader, younger audience.
Collaborations with Major Artists
As a young artist, Lil Mabu has already shared the stage with some heavy hitters.
Notably, his collaboration with Fivio Foreign on “Teach Me How to Drill” propelled him into the mainstream spotlight.
His work with other artists like DD Osama, PnB Rock, and Kay Flock has showcased his versatility and ability to collaborate with established stars while maintaining his unique style.
His debut album, Young Genius, was released under his self-founded label, Young Genius Academy Inc., and received praise for its innovative sound and lyricism.
The album’s success marked a significant milestone in his career, proving that Lil Mabu isn’t just another viral sensation but a serious artist making waves in the music industry.
The Influence of His Age on His Music
Lil Mabu’s youth plays a key role in how he relates to his audience.
His music often touches on themes of growing up, navigating the pressures of social media, and embracing his identity as a college rapper.
His fans, many of whom are in their teens and early twenties, resonate with his authenticity and the way he blends his college life with his music career.
His lyricism, often reflecting the confusion and excitement of being young in today’s world, sets him apart from older artists who may not have the same connection to Gen Z’s experiences.
What’s Next for Lil Mabu?
Future Projects and Evolution as an Artist
As Lil Mabu continues to balance college life with his musical career, it’s clear that his future is bright.
He has already established himself as a hip-hop influencer and a mainstay in the drill scene. But with his growing popularity, it’s only a matter of time before he begins to experiment with other genres and further develop his sound.
The possibility of Lil Mabu expanding into pop music or experimenting with new genres like club music is exciting.
Given his track record of viral moments, his fans are eager to see what he does next.
Long-Term Potential: Beyond the Drill Scene
While Lil Mabu has made a name for himself in New York drill, his future in the industry seems limitless.
His business acumen, combined with his creativity and social media prowess, suggests that Lil Mabu could soon transcend the drill scene to become a mainstream star.
Artists like Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and Migos have already set the blueprint for long-term success in the music industry.
It’s clear that Lil Mabu has the potential to follow in their footsteps, provided he continues to evolve as an artist and stay connected to his roots.
Conclusion
At just 19 years old, Lil Mabu has already made a significant impact in the music world. His journey from a college student rapper at Emory University to a rising star in New York drill music is inspiring to many.
His age has undoubtedly influenced his music, public image, and fanbase, giving him a unique edge in a competitive industry.
As Lil Mabu continues to grow both personally and professionally, his age will remain a defining factor in how he approaches music and his career.
Whether he’s dropping viral videos or collaborating with major artists like Fivio Foreign and DD Osama, one thing is certain: Lil Mabu is here to stay.
His combination of youth, talent, and business savvy ensures that he’ll remain at the forefront of the music scene for years to come.
