In mid-april, Complex Magazine broke a story in which they claimed to have "found Earl", the mysterious, and one-time "missing", seventeen year old Odd Future rapper.
About a month later, tonight, The New Yorker (an expensive magazine for old people) released their own story about Earl Sweatshirt. In this story they not only spoke directly to Earl's mother, but in-fact, corresponded with Earl directly through email. Although the article is only available online to subscribers of the magazine, writer Noz shared a quote from the article. The quote, is one from Earl, in which he expresses his disinterest in the "Free Earl" movement.
“Please listen: I am not being held against my will… Initially I was really pleased that all these people claimed that they wanted me released because I thought that translated into “they care.” So time progresses and the fan base gets bigger and the “Free Earl” chants get louder but now with the “Free Earl” chants come a barely indirect “Fuck Earl’s Mom” and in the blink of an eye my worry changes from “will there still be this hype when I get back” to “Oh shit I just inspired a widespread movement of people who are dedicated to the downfall of my mom…” The only thing I need as of right now is space… Space means no more “Free Earl.” If you sincerely care then I appreciate the gesture, but since you know the hard facts from the source you no longer need to worry.”
— Earl Sweatshirt (via Kelefa Sanneh’s Odd Future profile in the New Yorker)
This standpoint from Earl, on the subject matter of his own rallying cry, might surprise some. It might even surprise Tyler, The Creator and the rest of Odd Future. Regardless, this is the first public statement Earl has made since "vanishing" over a year ago. Free Earl
Previously: Mysterious Odd Future Rapper Earl Sweatshirt Has Been Found
