Young Thug Drops “Money on Money” Featuring Future
Young Thug is officially back. After a long legal battle and time away from the spotlight, the Atlanta rapper has released his first official single since being released from jail in October 2024. Titled “Money on Money,” the song is a high-energy collaboration with longtime friend and collaborator Future, and serves as the lead single from his upcoming album UY Scuti.
With a fresh beat, lyrical intensity, and powerful visuals, “Money on Money” is more than just a song—it’s a statement. It signals not only Thug’s return but a reintroduction to the music industry on his own terms.
A Triumphant Return: From RICO Charges to Rap Charts
Young Thug’s journey has been anything but ordinary. In 2022, he was arrested along with several members of his YSL collective in a high-profile RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations) case in Atlanta. The case, which drew national attention, accused YSL of functioning as a criminal gang—a claim Thug and his legal team repeatedly denied.
After spending over two years behind bars, Thugger was released in October 2024 after accepting a plea deal. While many wondered if he’d retreat from music, he did the opposite. He re-emerged with new fire and purpose.
And now, “Money on Money” marks the beginning of this new chapter.
Inside the Song: “Money on Money” Breaks It Down
Clocking in at just over three minutes, “Money on Money” is exactly what fans hoped for. It features the signature blend of Thug’s experimental vocals and Future’s brooding, melodic bars, over a Wheezy production.
The beat is hard-hitting yet polished—an energetic trap rhythm perfect for clubs, cars, and festival stages. Produced by Wheezy and Southside, the production leans on 808s, rolling hi-hats, and cinematic synths that amplify the lyrical tension.
Lyrics with a Message
Beyond the sound, the lyrics carry weight. Both rappers explore themes of loyalty, betrayal, and rebuilding power after setbacks. Many fans online have speculated that several of Thug’s lines are aimed at Gunna, the fellow YSL artist who took an Alford plea in the RICO case. While no names are mentioned, the emotion behind the bars is clear: Thug feels betrayed.
That storytelling element makes “Money on Money” feel personal. It’s not just a flex anthem—it’s a response, a release, and a reflection.
Music Video: Symbolism and Style
The music video, directed by Kaito and Brendan O’Connor, enhances the message. It opens with Thug and Future surrounded by flames. One of the most striking moments is a burning YSL logo—a possible symbol of Thug’s decision to burn the past and start over.
Other scenes show the rappers driving luxury cars through a dystopian industrial landscape. There are no flashy crowds or product placements—just two artists in command of their lane, reclaiming space.
Album on the Way: UY Scuti
“Money on Money” is just the beginning. The single serves as the lead track from Thug’s upcoming fourth studio album, titled UY Scuti—named after one of the largest known stars in the universe.
Why UY Scuti?
The album title is symbolic. It speaks to Thug’s ambition to shine brighter than ever before. UY Scuti isn’t just a name—it’s a declaration that he plans to expand his artistry and legacy beyond anything he’s done before.
The project, due in May 2025, is expected to feature artists like 21 Savage, Lil Baby, and Travis Scott, though the full tracklist remains under wraps. Early insiders say the album will explore themes of transformation, survival, and self-mastery—a departure from his earlier works, which leaned more on lifestyle and vibes.
Future and Thug: A Legendary Duo
The pairing of Future and Young Thug is far from new. Over the past decade, the two have dropped dozens of tracks together, including hits like “Relationship,” “Super Slimey,” and “All da Smoke.” They’ve even teased joint projects and tours.
But “Money on Money” feels different. It’s more focused. It’s more urgent. It’s two veterans sharpening each other’s swords—and the result is electrifying.
Their chemistry remains unmatched, and this track reminds listeners why they’re still two of the most influential voices in Southern hip-hop.
First Live Shows Since Jail: Summer Smash and Splash! Festivals
Fans won’t have to wait long to see Thug in action. He’s set to return to the stage this summer with major festival performances:
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Summer Smash Festival – June 22, 2025, in Bridgeview, Illinois
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Splash! Festival – July 2025, in Germany
These performances mark Thug’s first concerts since March 2022. His return is expected to draw massive crowds, with fans eager to witness this new phase of his career live.
At Summer Smash, organized by Lyrical Lemonade, Thug will be sharing the stage with Don Toliver, Yeat, Chance the Rapper, and even Future, who’s also performing. Given their latest single, a joint stage appearance is all but confirmed.
What This Means for Hip-Hop
Young Thug’s re-entry into music isn’t just personal—it’s cultural. His sound, fashion, and fearless experimentation helped define a generation of hip-hop in the 2010s. His legal battles, while tragic, also became part of the broader conversation around rap lyrics being used in court, and the ways systemic issues intersect with art.
By returning to music with such clarity and confidence, Thug is showing that resilience matters—and that authenticity can’t be silenced.
What Fans Can Expect Next
If “Money on Money” is the tone-setter for UY Scuti, fans are in for a wild ride. Expect high-concept visuals, genre-pushing sounds, and lyrics that blend street smarts with philosophical musings.
We might even get more tracks that address the YSL RICO case, though probably in subtle ways. Thug has always preferred coded language over direct call-outs. But one thing’s certain—he’s back and more focused than ever.
A New Era for Young Thug
Young Thug is no stranger to reinvention. From his early mixtape days to his genre-defying albums, he’s always kept fans guessing. But this moment feels different. This is a comeback marked by intention, clarity, and vision.
“Money on Money” isn’t just a song—it’s a mission statement. It says: I’m still here, I’m still growing, and I’ve still got something to prove.
Whether you’ve been a fan since “Stoner” or you’re just tuning in, now is the perfect time to watch Young Thug’s next evolution unfold.
