Young Thug made a triumphant return to the stage at the 2025 Lyrical Lemonade Summer Smash, marking his first performance since his 2022 arrest. The Atlanta rapper headlined the event at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, Illinois, following standout performances by fellow ATL legend Future and a duet set from Yeat and Don Toliver.
The atmosphere was electric as Young Thug, donning Joker makeup, captivated the crowd of tens of thousands. His performance kicked off with a dramatic video package where he expressed his gratitude to fans for their support during his absence. As the video concluded, the stage was set for a grand spectacle, featuring a massive circular structure and flame-throwing ramps that set the tone for an unforgettable night.
Young Thug’s performance had been highly anticipated, especially since he and Gunna were originally booked as headliners for the 2022 festival before their arrests. Berto Solorio, the Summer Smash president, and Jake Milan, the event’s talent buyer, reflected on the excitement of finally bringing Thug to the stage. Milan remarked on the significance of the night, likening it to a welcome-home party filled with unique moments and collaborations.
The performance was packed with surprises, including special guest appearances by Travis Scott, who joined Thug for the “Hot (Remix),” and T.I., who performed their classic collaboration “About the Money.” Young Thug also premiered a new song with Ken Carson, building anticipation for his upcoming project, UY Scuti.
Chicago rapper G Herbo emphasized the importance of Young Thug’s presence, stating, “His presence is everything, bro. Being incarcerated at that time and the world missing him, his fans missing him, his peers, his brothers—guys like me, I missed him when he was gone.”
The impact of Young Thug’s music on a new generation of artists was palpable, with performers like Homixide Gang expressing how his style and creativity have shaped their careers. The crowd sang along to hits like “Slatty” and “Lifestyle,” though some fans expressed disappointment at the absence of classics like “Check” and “Danny Glover.”
While the performance was a celebration of Young Thug’s return, it also served as a poignant reminder of the changes within his world. The likelihood of him performing alongside Gunna again remains uncertain, but the night reinforced that Young Thug is back and ready to reclaim his place in hip-hop.
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