Tyler, the Creator Praised for Ten Years of 'Amazing, Outstanding Stuff' at Variety's Hitmakers Event

At Varietys Hitmakers celebration on Saturday, Tyler, the Creator accepted the Innovator of the Decade award, using the moment to reflect on the journey that has defined his last 15 years. Speaking to the audience in Hollywood, he admitted he was initially taken aback when he learned hed been selected, noting that he has long admired trailblazers such as Stevie Wonder, Kanye West, Pharrell Williams and Missy Elliott.

He explained that receiving the recognition pushed him to pause and acknowledge his own path something he rarely does. Im always focused on whats next, he said, adding that it felt rewarding to hear that his work over the past decade and a half has resonated so strongly.

The award was presented by Andr 3000, who praised Tylers commitment to uplifting fellow artists and his dedication to evolving creatively. He highlighted Tylers wide-ranging talents from music and business to acting, including his upcoming role in the film Marty Supreme alongside Timothe Chalamet. According to Andr, Tylers enthusiasm and drive are contagious, and his ability to continually reinvent himself makes him a true creative force.

Josh Safdie, writer and director of Marty Supreme, also spoke about Tylers achievement, describing him as a rare artist whose vision remains unified across everything he creates whether its an album, a fragrance, clothing, a music video or a character on screen.

Tylers influence in hip-hop has grown steadily since the rise of Odd Future and the release of his debut album Bastard in 2009. Throughout the past decade, he has pushed the boundaries of the genre while expanding into fashion, film and other creative ventures. His eighth album, Chromakopia, arrived last year and was followed by an international tour, during which he began crafting his ninth record, Dont Tap the Glass. The surprise release dropped in July and, like its predecessor, earned a nomination for the 2026 Grammy Awards with Chromakopia competing for album of the year and Dont Tap the Glass nominated for best alternative music album.

Author: Ava Mitchell