By: Ally Brewster
Fast-rising artist Rarin has released his liberating, pop-rap debut mixtape Toxic Ends. An aspirational, ambition-fueled introduction which champions human connection and self-growth, inspiring listeners to be themselves free of insecurity, Toxic Ends unites Rarin’s recent string of hard-hitting singles and adds six new tracks to his prolific catalogue.
Originally recording music for fun and continuing to create in his bedroom despite his success, Rarin has racked up over 75 million global streams with his string of viral singles including “GTA” and “YESSIR!” which topped Spotify’s viral charts and trended on YouTube. Adding to his hot streak, and distilling rap, pop, and relatable storytelling into his own unique sound, Toxic Ends will follow his recently released singles: deceptive flex anthems that speak to what is achievable in life if you free yourself from insecurity. “Toxics Ends” imagines what life would be like if we let go of the negative thoughts that hold us back, while Rarin “levels up” to become the most polished version of himself on “Big Spendin’,” a version without heartbreak or self-consciousness, that is excited for the future. “SO WHAT! ft. Brxkenbxy” speaks to brushing off minor issues to find value in mistakes without letting them derail you from seizing big opportunities.
“I think we’re all destined for something greater than our expectations. We just have to let go of what’s holding us back,” says Rarin on the inspiration for the mixtape. “This project is mainly about letting go of our ‘toxic ends.’ People are tempted to commit themselves to things they cannot obtain, especially in relationships, leading their emotions to consume them. Just because you want something, doesn’t mean you need it.”
We had the opportunity to ask Rarin about his career, Toxic Ends, and what’s next for the artist:
How did you get your start into music? When did you know if it was something you wanted to pursue?
I originally got into music because of my parents. They had me learn to play the piano because they wanted me to try out new things when I was younger. I think that really gave me an ear for making music and it helped a lot. Singing and rapping came many years later and that really started out of boredom. Later, with time, I found myself enjoying recording music more and more and eventually I recognized music as something I wanted to pursue professionally.
Who were your biggest inspirations for going into the music industry? How has their careers inspired/impacted your own decisions and direction for your music?
My biggest inspirations are Lil Peep, Travis Scott, and Billie Eilish. The career of Lil Peep has made me see how important fan interaction is, and how being close with your fans can bring a really special connection. I also love Travis Scott’s live performances and seeing him perform made me realize that your fans and listeners will reflect your energy, so you need to show your enthusiasm in everything you do. Billie Eilish inspires me to go out of my comfort zone and to be more confident. In one interview she had said that you should embrace your mistakes in your music and keep them because that’s what makes it unique. That saying has stuck with me for the entirety of my career and has really given me motivation.
How does your new work compare to your other works you’ve done in the past in terms of process, production and message? Do you notice differences in creating singles versus mixtapes?
Overall, the production has gotten much better, but I also have more purpose when I record and write music. Currently, I tend to make faster and happier songs compared to my past music.
What was it like when you realized that your work was connecting with people? Was there a specific moment you remember realizing how your music impacted others?
It was honestly very motivating. I’ve had fans tell me that my music has helped them stay mentally strong in their hardest times, and that really means the world to me. I use music to help myself feel better so being able to provide that for others makes me really happy.
Were you surprised that your work became popular in gaming communities? What has that experience been like as you watched you work be appreciated by many different communities?
I never really expected my songs to blow up through video games. I used to edit gaming montages so it’s crazy to me that my music is being used in videos similar to what I used to edit.
Toxic Ends is a mixtape with “deceptive flex anthems that speak to what is achievable in life if you free yourself from insecurity.” What inspired you to make a mixtape that is vulnerable and honest about overcoming insecurity? Is there anything you hope fans take away from the mixtape?
My life inspires my music and, in my life, I’ve found myself unable to rid myself of toxic relationships and situations because I thought those situations were normal and that I didn’t deserve better. After listening, I hope my fans recognize the importance of loving yourself and what you do. I think it is the key to being successful and happy in life and I wish that upon everyone.
What are you most excited for next once your new mixtape is out?
I’m most excited to start doing live shows and possibly touring.
Toxic Ends Track List
Toxic Ends
Love Fix
Ashes
Had Enough
SO WHAT! (ft. Brxkenbxy)
Skipping Stones
Cash Out (ft. Darius King)
2 Seater
Big Spendin’
See Rarin’s mixtape music videos below:
Toxic Ends album visualizer here.
“Toxic Ends” music video here.
“Big Spendin’” music video here.
Check out Rarin’s debut mix, and keep a look out for what’s next!
