The Kid LAROI, born Charlton Kenneth Jeffrey Howard on August 17, 2003, is an Australian rapper, singer, and songwriter who has quickly risen to international fame. Known for his emotive lyrics and unique blend of hip-hop and pop, he has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. But where is The Kid LAROI from? His journey from a young boy in Sydney to a global music sensation is both inspiring and remarkable.
Early Life in Sydney
The Kid LAROI was born in Waterloo, a suburb in the inner south of Sydney, New South Wales. Raised by his mother, Sloane Howard, and his uncle, his early life was marked by challenges. His father, Nick Howard, was briefly involved in the music industry but was not a consistent presence in his life. Despite these hardships, his mother played a pivotal role in his upbringing, introducing him to music from a young age. She would play artists like Fugees, 2Pac, Lil Wayne, and Kanye West, which ignited his passion for hip-hop. He later cited Kanye West’s 2008 album 808s & Heartbreak as his favorite of all time.
Move to Broken Hill
At the age of seven, The Kid LAROI moved with his family to Broken Hill, a remote mining town in New South Wales. This move was prompted by the tragic murder of his uncle in 2015, which deeply affected the family. In Broken Hill, he lived with his mother, brother, grandparents, and stepfather. He attended Sacred Heart Parish School, where he excelled academically and was even a house captain. However, the family’s financial struggles led them to move back to Sydney in 2017.
Return to Sydney and Pursuit of Music
Upon returning to Sydney, The Kid LAROI attended the Australian Performing Arts Grammar School on a scholarship. However, he dropped out midway through year nine to pursue his music career. During this period, his family lived in a Housing Commission building in Redfern, a suburb known for its socio-economic challenges. Despite these circumstances, he remained determined to succeed in music. He took a part-time job at a fruit store to support his family and began recording music on his mother’s iPhone. His hustle and dedication paid off when he started gaining attention online and eventually met American rapper Juice WRLD.
Connection with Juice WRLD
In 2019, The Kid LAROI met Juice WRLD during his tour in Australia. This meeting proved to be a turning point in his career. Juice WRLD took The Kid LAROI under his wing, mentoring him and helping him navigate the music industry. Their collaboration on the track Go marked the beginning of The Kid LAROI’s rise to fame. He was later signed to Juice WRLD’s label, Grade A Productions, in a joint venture with Columbia Records.
Indigenous Heritage and Artistic Name
The Kid LAROI’s stage name is a nod to his Indigenous heritage. His mother, Sloane Howard, is of Aboriginal and European descent, and his great-great-grandfather was part of the Stolen Generation, a group of Aboriginal children forcibly removed from their families by the Australian government. Through this ancestor, he is a Gamilaraay (or Kamilaroi) man. The name LAROI is derived from this heritage, reflecting his pride in his Indigenous roots.
Rise to International Fame
Following his association with Juice WRLD, The Kid LAROI’s career took off. In 2020, he released his debut mixtape, Fck Love, which featured the hit single Without You. The mixtape was a commercial success, charting in multiple countries and solidifying his place in the music industry. In 2021, he collaborated with Justin Bieber on the song Stay, which became a global hit, topping charts in several countries and earning him widespread recognition.
Current Life and Legacy
Today, The Kid LAROI continues to make music that resonates with fans around the world. He has performed at major events, including the NRL Grand Final, and has been recognized for his contributions to music, including being named Artist of the Year at the 2021 National Indigenous Music Awards. Despite his success, he remains grounded and connected to his roots, often speaking about his upbringing and the influences that shaped his music.
The Kid LAROI’s journey from the streets of Sydney to international stardom is a testament to his talent, resilience, and determination. His story serves as an inspiration to many, showing that with passion and perseverance, one can overcome adversity and achieve greatness. As he continues to evolve as an artist, his connection to his heritage and his experiences growing up in Australia remain central to his identity and music.