Cleveland, OH – August 3, 2025 – Kid Cudi has announced a significant shift in his creative approach, stating he will no longer include guest features on his future albums. Teh decision, revealed via a post on X (formerly Twitter), stems from experiences with collaborators who lacked engagement following album releases.
Cudi explained that past collaborations have left him feeling uneasy, citing instances where featured artists failed to promote the album or maintain contact afterward. “No features, just me. I think im over features unless it happens organically. Theres people ive had on my albums that i havent talked to in years. Didnt promote the album, just whent ghost.Makes me feel weird,” he wrote. “So w this one, I was like, fuck that. I dont need anyone else on this one. Im enough to keep u engaged.”
This announcement arrives as Cudi prepares to release his upcoming project, Free, slated for release on all streaming platforms on Friday, August 22, 2025. The album’s lead single, released July 5, 2025, is titled “Grave” and features cover art created by visual artist Norman Jean Roy, known for his work with artists like Kanye West and Travis Scott.
In a July 15, 2025 Instagram post, Cudi described the album’s concept as a visual representation of freedom, inspired by the 1998 film The Truman Show, directed by Peter Weir. He anticipates the album art will be fully realized in accompanying visuals. “I wanted something that really expressed freedom, so the concept of me leaping into the clouds made so much sense,” Cudi wrote. “You’re in for a lovely ride. Promise.”
Beyond his music, Cudi recently celebrated a personal milestone, marrying fashion designer Lola Abecassis on July 11, 2025, in a private ceremony held in the Hollywood Hills, California. abecassis’s wedding dress was custom-designed by Alain Miguel, a designer based in Paris, France.
“Nan, I’ve been waiting for this moment my whole life. A truly special day with amazing friends and loving family. I love this woman so so much, and I know she loves me in the same way. Its always a battle sayin “I love you more” because she always wins that battle haha my best friend,” Cudi shared on Instagram. “My ride or die. To all of the fam that came thru, it was truly a pleasure having you with us on our special day. I love each and everyone of you.”
