Lil Berete: Time Flies
The 17-year-old rapper/singer is being tipped as the potential next big thing from the Six. This cut from his just-released debut mixtape shows why, as it showcases his vocal chops alongside smart production on a breezy and catchy tune.
By Kerry Doole
Lil Berete - "Time Flies" (New Gen/Beggars): On Friday, this Toronto rapper/singer released his debut mixtape, Icebreaker. Look for it to do just that, as the 17-year-old seems poised to break through fast.
Earlier tracks “Southside” and “Northside" made a mark, and one of Icebreaker's tracks, "No Makeup (feat. JoEazy)," quickly scored 623K YouTube views.
"Time Flies" is rapidly gaining momentum also, with its cause aided by an eye-catching video shot in the Caribbean island of St. Vincent. That complements the breezy and catchy vibe of a well-produced (by KR Moore) cut that shows Lil Berete has a melodic vocal style.
His chops caught the ear of New Gen, an imprint of XL Recordings, and that label began working with him late last year. His work had already been resonating around the Toronto housing projects of Regent Park where Berete (of Guinean descent) was raised. Flanked by his crew known as STN, who were known for unifying the once opposing two sides of town Northside and Southside, Lil Berete and his crew were doing things differently and on their terms.
Berete cites Akon, T-Pain and Young Thug as key influences, and he has been tipped for the top by the likes of Fader and Complex. We concur.
Links
Management: midtownmusicmanagement3m@gmail.com
Label contact: David Freeman, Beggars
The Weeknd at Rogers Centre in Toronto on August 8, 2025.Hyghly Alleyne, Courtesy XO Records