Friendship is at the heart of Lil Nas X and Camila Cabello’s newly forged connection, which blossomed during their collaboration on the 2024 track “He Knows.” In a new cover story for Paper magazine, Lil Nas X, the 25-year-old Grammy-winning artist, opened up about the meaningful partnership with Cabello and how their collaboration helped him regain his confidence at a difficult time in his life.
The rapper and singer, known for his chart-topping hits like “Industry Baby” and “Old Town Road,” discussed how working with Cabello, 28, served as a source of inspiration and emotional support. He described the experience as more than just a professional collaboration, emphasizing how the two artists uplifted each other both creatively and personally.
“We did a great job at uplifting each other and showing each other how we view the situation and how we view each other from outside of ourselves,” said Lil Nas X. He went on to express how deeply impactful it was to receive validation from someone whose work he admires. “Once you make up your mind: ‘Oh, the world doesn’t see me as something great or feels like I’ve done anything amazing.’ To hear affirmation from somebody who you greatly respect, and you love what they’ve done, it feels great, especially because you can feel like it comes from a genuine place, and not like someone trying to get something from you.”
Lil Nas X and Cabello, who previously collaborated on “He Knows,” a playful anthem about rivalry and relationships, are seen in the song’s music video engaging in a dramatic altercation where Lil Nas X pulls out Cabello’s hair at a nightclub. The duo fights over a man, with their confrontation escalating into a theatrical showdown. Yet beyond the tension seen on screen, their real-life friendship has been a grounding and positive force for both stars.
Lil Nas X continued to describe his time spent with Cabello as a refreshing break from the pressures of fame, calling their moments together “fun” and “genuine.” The collaboration occurred at a time when Lil Nas X was in the process of easing back into social spaces after facing personal challenges. The two spent time together at the 2024 Met Gala and multiple after-parties, during which Lil Nas X found comfort in Cabello’s company.
“It was just genuine fun,” he recalled. “It didn’t feel like work.” He went on to share how Cabello’s support made him feel more at ease, saying, “She made me feel so good. She made me feel so great. And that was the beginning of me getting my confidence back.” For Lil Nas X, the connection with Cabello marked a pivotal turning point in his personal growth. “To finally be at this place, where I’m like, ‘Okay, I know who the f— I am. I know where I’m going. I don’t care what none of these bitches say. I didn’t care at first. Why do I care now?’”
In his recent music, Lil Nas X has continued to explore themes of confidence and self-empowerment. In March 2025, he released his latest single, “Hotbox,” which quickly gained attention. Alongside the track, he dropped an EP titled Days Before Dreamboy, featuring several promotional songs that showcase a lighter, more carefree side of his artistry.
Reflecting on why “Hotbox” felt like the right choice for his latest major release, Lil Nas X told Paper, “‘Hotbox’ seemed light. It didn’t seem like me trying to prove something to my haters.” This sentiment marks a departure from his earlier tracks, which at times carried an edge of defiance. Lil Nas X explained how, for a period, he was consumed with the desire to retaliate against his critics, but he realized that this was not the energy he wanted to put into his music anymore. “For a minute I was like, ‘I want to get back at my detractors for how they made me feel,’” he said. “I was like, ‘No bitch. I want to make a bubbly, fun song.’”
The playful, upbeat nature of “Hotbox” reflects Lil Nas X’s evolving mindset, especially as the world faces heightened tensions. “I know a lot of people are very scared in the world right now, about all the s— that’s happening, especially in our own country,” he said. “S— is happening so fast. I don’t want to think about it. And I don’t mean that in the sense of being dismissive, but I’m just so f—ing tired of being tired of this s—.”
The artist emphasized the importance of providing an escape from the heaviness of the world, even if just for a few minutes. “If this song could even for three minutes make somebody forget what’s going on and feel some oblivious joy, then so be it,” Lil Nas X added, showcasing his focus on positivity and bringing lightness to his fans during a time when many feel overwhelmed.
Throughout his career, Lil Nas X has remained an outspoken advocate for individuality, self-expression, and LGBTQ+ visibility in the entertainment industry. His personal growth and confidence are mirrored in his music, which continues to serve as both a reflection of his journey and a beacon for his fans. As he works with talented artists like Camila Cabello and releases new, joyful tracks like “Hotbox,” Lil Nas X is showing the world that it’s possible to thrive and embrace one’s true self, even amid challenges and criticism.
For Lil Nas X, this new chapter is about standing in his power and embracing both his artistic voice and personal identity with pride. His collaboration with Cabello and his music are a testament to how, through friendship, mutual support, and creative expression, anyone can regain their confidence and keep pushing forward.
Fans and critics alike will no doubt continue to watch with excitement as Lil Nas X grows and evolves both professionally and personally. His unapologetic authenticity is not only redefining what it means to be a star in today’s music landscape but also setting a powerful example of self-love, resilience, and the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences.
