From: officialflagrant
That Mexican OT’s journey in the music industry has seen a notable evolution, moving from a traditional rap persona to embracing a distinct cowboy image that reflects his authentic self [01:34:15]. This shift has not only broadened his musical style but also resonated deeply with his growing fanbase [01:36:01].
Embracing Authenticity
Initially, That Mexican OT admits he would dress in typical rap attire, such as jeans and Jordans, because he was “trying to look like a rapper” [01:34:22]. The transition to his current cowboy persona began when he “just gave up on it” and decided to wear what he wanted, out of a sense of laziness and a desire for comfort [01:34:30]. This seemingly simple decision to embrace his authentic self, rooted in his Texas upbringing and cowboy lifestyle, unexpectedly led to a surge in his career [01:36:01].
The Cowboy Image
The cowboy persona is now a core part of his identity. He considers his cowboy hat and boots to be his “chain,” symbolizing his unique style over traditional jewelry [01:33:39]. He consciously saves money rather than buying expensive chains because he believes his music speaks for itself [01:31:10]. When traveling, like during a trip to Atlanta, he presents himself in denim shorts, a wife-beater, boots, and his cowboy hat, which often prompts reactions of curiosity from those unfamiliar with his style [01:31:44].
Musical Versatility
This personal shift has also influenced his music. While primarily a rapper, he has ventured into country songs, enjoying the fun and different “characters” he can embody [01:06:21]. He jokingly states that he doesn’t even know how to rap, he “just rhyme words” [01:07:10]. This confidence allows him to experiment with sounds and genres, as evidenced by tracks like “Cowboy Killer” which incorporates blues elements [01:07:04]. Having rapped since he was four years old, his deep musical fluency enables him to comfortably rap in different styles and explore new artistic avenues [04:56:58], considering it “unlocking new characters every day” [01:06:48].
Overcoming Self-Doubt
That Mexican OT shared that he used to “despise and hated everything of myself” due to negative opinions from family and peers [01:36:08]. He recalled people questioning his rapping in school and disliking him as a person [01:36:27]. This period of self-doubt lasted until he was around 20 or 21, when he made the conscious decision to “believe in myself” [01:36:46]. This newfound self-acceptance aligned with his embrace of the cowboy image, demonstrating a powerful connection between personal authenticity and professional success.