Apollo XXI garnered widespread critical acclaim. Named as one of the best releases of 2019, critics praised its originality, cohesiveness and introspective lyricism. Thematically, the album explores Lacy’s sexuality and coming out.[13] Apollo XXI was nominated for Best Urban Contemporary Album at the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards, Lacy's first Grammy nomination as a solo artist.[14]
Background[edit]
Lacy started working on the album in 2017, recording in his younger sister's bedroom (which he named Paramore Palace) after she left for college, in between sessions he had with other artists, as well as touring with his band, the Internet.[15][1] He also stated that he recorded much of the album using other methods than an iPod or iPhone.[1] The song, "Like Me", was written and recorded in July 2017, after a period in which Lacy said he hadn't written any music because of the emotions and fears he had expressing his sexuality.[1] The song features Daisy Hamel-Buffa who says they connected talking about their sexuality together in 2017 and Lacy came back later to ask that she sing on the track.[16]
Singles and promotion[edit]
On April 8, 2019, Lacy released the lead single from Apollo XXI, "N Side". The song was released after the Internet announced that two solo albums from unnamed band members had been completed.[8] On May 16, he announced the title and revealed the cover art of the album.[17] On May 21, he released the second single titled "Playground" and revealed the track list of the album.[18] A final single, "Hate CD", was released hours before the album debuted.[11]
All songs written and produced by Lacy, unless otherwise noted.