Rolling Vibes and Real Talk: Young Costa’s “Smoke Break” Brings the Fun Back to Hip‑Hop
- Alexandria Anglade
- May 4
- 2 min read
Written by Alexandria Anglade
Young Costa’s new EP, Smoke Break, dropped on April 20 and couldn’t be more aptly timed. Inspired by classic “roll‑up” releases like Wiz Khalifa’s Kush & OJ, Mac Miller’s The High Life, and DJ Clockwork & Treejay’s Piff Jar, the four‑track project is designed for feel‑good cruising—no overthinking, no pressure, just laid‑back bounce.
It’s a sharp left turn from his previous EP, Sorry, I Tend to Ramble, where every bar was mic‑checked for technical precision. This time, he traded relentless punchlines for breezy hooks and head‑nod grooves, determined to give listeners the same carefree rush those early‑2010s mixtapes gave him.
That shift mirrors a larger change in Young Costa’s mindset. “I used to chase ‘legendary,’” he admits. “Now I just make music I’d play myself.” By prioritizing his own tastes—whatever sound, style, or substance moves him in the moment—he’s found authenticity that resonates naturally with fans. If it hits him in the chest, he knows it’ll hit someone else, too.
His writing process is equally instinctive. Sometimes a beat speaks for itself and the lyrics pour out; other times he rides around humming half‑formed melodies, letting flow and rhythm gestate until a full idea snaps into place. It’s less science, more gut feeling—waiting for that telltale spark where everything feels right.
After nearly a decade of recording (he cut his first tracks at 16), Young Costa’s voice has matured alongside his perspective. Early sessions were all about grand statements and flawless delivery. Growing comfortable in his own skin helped him loosen that grip: perfection took a back seat to genuine enjoyment. The result is music that breathes—confident but unforced, personal yet inviting.
Collaboration still matters, though he’s selective. “I just want to be around people who love the music the way I do,” he says. Anyone chasing quick clout or a fast check can stay at arm’s length—that’s the side of the industry he finds most disheartening. Navigating who’s in it for art versus profit remains an ongoing challenge, but love for the craft keeps him motivated. After stepping away once and feeling hollow without creation, he realized he’d be making tracks whether the world tuned in or not.
Ultimately, Young Costa’s goal is simple: soundtrack real life. If a listener can pinpoint a memory—some late‑night drive, some inside joke—with one of his songs playing in the background, he considers the mission accomplished. With Smoke Break spinning, he’s betting plenty of good times (and good stories) are about to unfold.
Instagram: @theyoungcosta
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