Lil Nas X has announced that his new song, “World’s Greatest,” will be released on October 1, 2026. The song marks an emotional return for the Grammy-winning artist following the death of his mother in August.
The 27-year-old musician shared a video on Instagram showing him listening to a voicemail from his mother. In the recording, Tameka Hill encourages her son to keep his head up, continue walking by faith and not give up.
The message has a special meaning for Lil Nas X because “Walk by faith, not by sight” was one of his mother’s favorite phrases. He said the words have continued to stay with him as he moves through life.
Hill died in August, and Lil Nas X announced her death on August 29. At the time, he shared photos of his mother and wrote an emotional tribute to her. Her age and cause of death were not publicly shared.
The new song comes after a difficult period for the artist. Earlier this year, Lil Nas X spoke publicly about his mental health, including his bipolar disorder diagnosis and his time receiving treatment. He also took time away from the public eye before returning to social media.
Now, “World’s Greatest” gives fans a first look at his next musical chapter. The song also carries a personal connection to his mother through the use of her recorded voice.
Lil Nas X became a global star after “Old Town Road” became one of the biggest songs of 2019. His debut album, Montero, was released in 2021 and included hits such as “Montero (Call Me by Your Name)” and “Industry Baby.”
“World’s Greatest” is set to arrive Thursday, October 1 at 12 p.m. Eastern Time, giving fans a new song from Lil Nas X while also preserving a message from his mother that he says continues to guide him.
