Belly says that he intends to retire after the release of his next three albums. The Canadian rapper explained his decision in a post on Twitter, last week. In it, he admits that the “industry has taken its toll” on him. Belly has released three studio albums during his career, but he’s found the most mainstream success through his songwriting. He’s co-written hits for The Weeknd, Beyoncé, and more. Among the songs he’s credited with is the 2019 single “Blinding Lights“, which eventually became the Billboard #1 Greatest Hot 100 Hit of All Time in 2021. Belly was named the Songwriter of the Year at the 2016 SOCAN Awards for his “significant and outstanding contributions to popular music over the past year.”
“I love yall with all my heart, sincerely, but this industry has taken it’s [sic] toll on me,” Belly wrote on Twitter on February 17. “MR2 will be the first of my last three albums ever. Mini tour for MR2 then a farewell tour after my next 2.” Belly didn’t provide any more information about the upcoming three albums nor did he reveal any tour information regarding when fans will be able to catch him for the last time.
Belly’s Announcement
“You have been an inspiration for all of us back home in Ottawa,” one account replied. “Hope we get to see you perform one last time. Can’t wait for the albums.” Another added: “Thank you for your incredible contributions to our very species. The common being may be oblivious to how far reaching your talents and creations have been but needless to say the best of you will echo in eternity. You are appreciated, Legend.” “We will be always grateful for the amazing music you gave us Belly!” one more fan wrote back.
Belly came onto the music scene in 2005 with the release of his debut mixtape, Death Before Dishonor: Vol. 1. He eventually signed with The Weeknd’s XO label back in 2015. In total, he’s released three studio albums, 11 mixtapes, and 24 singles. He’s also received writing credits on countless songs from The Weeknd including “Often,” “The Hills,” “Shameless,” “Earned It,” “Party Monster,” “False Alarm,” “Save Your Tears,” and more.
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