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Bronx artist Thunder Bklu is officially pivoting. In a deeply personal new video, the rapper addressed his long absence from the music scene, revealing that a brush with death and time spent in Rikers Island have fundamentally shifted his perspective on the genre that made him famous.
No stranger to the cycle of violence—having lost his brother and several close friends to the streets—Thunder is now using his platform to push a message of healing and positivity.
Choosing Peace Over “Ops”
In the video, Thunder clarifies why he hasn’t been dropping the drill music fans have come to expect. He explains that his mental health and spirit could no longer align with music that belittles others. He emphasized that he is now focused on pushing peace regardless of gang affiliations, noting that mutual respect between men should be the priority.
He even went as far as to directly address anyone who previously considered him an enemy, asking them to no longer view him as an “op.” He expressed that he has no intent to cause harm to anyone and simply wants to go about his way, leaving the cycle of retaliation behind.
The Reality of Rikers
Reflecting on his time behind bars, Thunder described the “backdoor” behavior and the lack of loyalty that often plagues street life. He recalled the frustration of being locked in a cell for a week straight, realizing that the lifestyle many glorify is actually a trap that takes men away from their families.
He spoke candidly about being in Rikers, feeling angry at himself and the situation, questioning why friends celebrate being in jail together. He now openly regrets the things he was doing in his past and refuses to continue producing content that he believes hurts both himself and his community.
A New Chapter: Healing from the Bronx
With the recent sentencing of Kay Flock leaving a void in the Bronx scene, many expected Thunder to grab the drill baton. Instead, he is heading in a different direction. While he hasn’t shared specific song titles yet, he revealed that his new music focuses on healing from the negativity and the trauma he experienced as a kid growing up in the Bronx.
He noted that while he should have been broken by his experiences, he is choosing to look forward. Thunder Bklu’s sincerity marks a rare moment of maturity in a genre often defined by its hostility. By choosing to lead the youth toward financial stability and family instead of “spinning blocks,” he is positioning himself as a necessary game-changer for the culture.
The rapper concluded by apologizing to fans who were waiting for traditional drill music, but he maintained that he can no longer participate in “unrighteous” or “ungodly” activities. He is standing firm in his new direction, ready to influence the next generation to do better for themselves and their families.
Watch Thunder Bklu’s full message below: