Travis Scott: Photos From the Billboard Cover Shoot

Key Takeaways:

• Travis Scott is set to perform at the College Football Playoff National Championship halftime show, taking his career to new heights—literally.
• He has achieved four No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 and five Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 singles.
• Scott holds records for the highest-grossing tour ever by a solo rap act and being the first rapper to sell out Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium.
• His deep passion for sports, particularly Houston teams, has significantly influenced his performance style.
• From being a ball boy for the Houston Rockets to witnessing iconic sports moments, Scott’s sports background fuels his drive to captivate audiences.

Perched Atop the Stadium

On a chilly January night in Atlanta, Travis Scott stands atop the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, poised to deliver a performance that will elevate his career to unprecedented heights—literally. Just ten feet from the edge of the rooftop, he prepares for the halftime show at the College Football Playoff National Championship, embracing both the thrill and the risk of the moment.

His latest track, “4X4,” which soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 upon its release in early February, reverberates through the speakers. Under the direction of Gibson Hazard, Scott moves with fearless energy, embodying the daring spirit that has defined his career.

Record-Breaking Achievements

At 33, the Houston native has amassed a remarkable list of accomplishments unusual for a modern hip-hop artist. With four albums reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and five singles topping the Billboard Hot 100, Scott has cemented his status in the music industry. His tours have shattered records, including the highest-grossing tour ever by a solo rap act, and he made history as the first rapper to sell out Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium.

Roots in Houston’s Sports Culture

Scott’s passion for delivering electrifying performances is deeply rooted in his love for sports, especially those of his hometown. In his youth, he worked as a ball boy for the NBA’s Houston Rockets, immersing himself in the energy of professional basketball. Reflecting on those days while enjoying a slice of pizza the day after recording his performance, he reminisces about his time with the Rockets and his unwavering support for the team.

Inspiration from Iconic Moments

As a teenager, Scott witnessed some of Houston’s most memorable sports events. He recalls watching the nail-biting 14-inning Game Three of the 2005 World Series between his beloved Houston Astros and the Chicago White Sox from his grandfather’s kitchen. The Astros ultimately lost both the game and the series, but the intensity left a lasting impression. He also vividly remembers Rockets legend Tracy McGrady’s astonishing 13 points in 33 seconds against the San Antonio Spurs in 2004—moments that ignited his drive to captivate audiences on grand stages.

Fueling the Fire

Scott’s connection to sports transcends fandom; it profoundly influences his artistry and stage presence. The adrenaline, competitiveness, and ambition he observed in athletes translate into his own performances. Whether he’s electrifying a crowd from a soaring platform or pushing the boundaries of live shows, Scott draws inspiration from the sports legends he grew up idolizing.

Continuing to Soar

As he prepares to unveil his high-octane halftime show to the world, Travis Scott demonstrates that his pursuit of innovation knows no bounds. With “4X4” dominating the charts and his performances reaching new heights, both literally and figuratively, he remains a formidable force in hip-hop, continually fueled by the passions that have driven him since his youth.