Lil Uzi Vert’s alternative version of Kanye West’s ‘Fade’ has surfaced online, offering fans a glimpse into a collaboration that never officially materialized.
For those who might have forgotten amid Lil Uzi Vert’s artistic evolution, the rapper has been a dominant force on the charts for a decade. Collaborations with the industry’s biggest names, including Kanye West, are a testament to their impact. Although Uzi Vert and West officially teamed up on Travis Scott’s 2018 single ‘Watches,’ their partnership almost began two years earlier on West’s album ‘The Life of Pablo.’
Uzi Vert recorded vocals for ‘Fade,’ but they were ultimately left off the final cut. Fans were left wondering how Uzi’s version would sound—until now. On May 29, an alternate version of ‘Fade’ featuring a verse from Uzi was leaked online. While the rest of the song remains similar, Uzi’s unique style brings a fresh vibe to the track. They kick off the song with a verse that flows effortlessly over the bouncy house instrumental, opting for a cool and understated delivery. This contrasts significantly with the high-energy elements typically associated with Uzi, like their guest appearance on ‘Bad and Boujee.’ Kanye’s decision to scrap it in favor of a more energetic version becomes understandable, but hearing this rendition is undeniably intriguing.
Back in 2016, Uzi laid down a guest verse for the track and has been open about the trove of unreleased music they have with Kanye. At the 2018 Grammy Awards, Uzi told Complex Magazine, ‘Me and Kanye been working ever since Lil Uzi ever existed in his music career. I always knew ‘Ye. We have like hundreds of stuff, but trying to get it together.’
Kanye has been one of Uzi’s loudest supporters, frequently praising their work. During a 2022 episode of ‘Drink Champs,’ Kanye described Uzi and Playboi Carti as the future of hip-hop, and even likened Uzi to Steve Jobs in a 2020 tweet. When rumors circulated that Kanye was no longer a fan, he was quick to dispel them, tweeting, ‘I love Uzi. I be saying the same thing about Steve Jobs I be feeling just like Uzi.’
The leaked version of ‘Fade’ reignites curiosity about what other unreleased gems could be hidden in the archives of Uzi Vert and Kanye West’s collaborative sessions. For now, fans can enjoy this rare peek into what might have been.
