From Viral Sensation to Rising Artist: Laid3 Opens Up About Champagne Scars and His Next Chapter
For many people, Laid3 is the charismatic personality behind viral videos and collaborations with some of social media’s biggest
For many people, Laid3 is the charismatic personality behind viral videos and collaborations with some of social media’s biggest names. But beyond the laughs and millions of views is a man determined to show the world a different side of himself.
Born Keenan Deal and originally from East St. Louis, Laid3 is stepping into a new chapter of his career with the upcoming release of his debut mixtape, Champagne Scars, arriving in July 2026, and the launch of his podcast, Straight Like That, set to debut in Fall 2026.
“I’m just a talented individual with talents I’m ready to showcase to the world,” Laid3 tells Tha Culture Report.
Before pursuing music full-time, Laid3 built a loyal following through comedy and content creation, collaborating with personalities including Desi Banks, That Boy Too Funny, Reggie Baby, and Robiii World. Surprisingly, many of those opportunities came naturally.
“Everything happened by chance me meeting them and working with them all,” he says. “It’s been a great experience. I definitely built genuine relationships with them all.”
While his online presence helped establish his name, music has always been part of the plan.
“Music has always been a passion of mine,” he explains. “I’m deciding now that it’s something I have to pursue.”
That passion will soon come to life through Champagne Scars, a project that Laid3 says reflects his evolution both personally and creatively.
“They can expect to hear nothing but bangers,” he says. “I put my all into this first project. I pray the world receives me and my music. I had fun making it.”
The mixtape’s title hints at a deeper story. Behind the entertaining persona lies someone who has overcome tremendous obstacles. Laid3 revealed that experiencing homelessness while maintaining hope became one of the driving forces behind his artistry.
“Being homeless and still having hope is something that drives me daily,” he shares.
It’s that perseverance that continues to shape his outlook on success. Growing up in East St. Louis, he witnessed firsthand how difficult it can be to escape challenging circumstances.
“I’m from the trenches,” he says. “A lot of the folks from my neighborhood don’t make it out, but I did. I am doing this for them and myself. Successful people do come from nothing, and that’s what I want the world to witness.”
Musically, Laid3 refuses to be boxed in. He describes his sound as “versatile,” allowing him to connect with listeners through different emotions and experiences.
“I can create heartbreak, uplifting, and inspiring music,” he explains. “I love to show my supporters every side of me. My goal is to appeal to every audience.”
Of course, transitioning from influencer to recording artist comes with its own set of challenges. While some content creators struggle to gain credibility in music, Laid3 remains focused on proving himself through authenticity and consistency.
“I just want to be taken seriously as an artist,” he says. “Showing my supporters a different side of me has been a little nerve-wracking, but they’ve been very supportive.”
Outside of music, Laid3 is expanding his platform with Straight Like That, a new podcast where he’ll discuss everything from entertainment and politics to culture and personal growth. He also plans to use the platform to spotlight emerging artists and document their journeys.
“I want to talk about everything from entertainment, the culture, politics and beyond,” he says. “As well as spotlight artists to show their evolution in their music.”
When asked what success looks like over the next five years, Laid3’s answer centers around family, impact, and creating opportunities for others.
“I want to make an impact and build a solid foundation for my son Ashton and my future kids and grandkids,” he says. “I want to get booked more for movies, secure bigger shows, and gain more exposure. I also want my own production company and to teach others how to be successful in content creation.”
Even the story behind his name carries personal significance. The nickname “Laid” came from his late football coach, Flake, who affectionately called him “Koolaid.” The number three is a tribute to his favorite basketball player, Allen Iverson.
As Champagne Scars prepares to introduce listeners to this new chapter, Laid3 hopes audiences walk away with a message rooted in healing and optimism.
“I want listeners to know that pain and heartbreak doesn’t last always,” he says. “There’s nothing wrong with being happy and allowing lessons to be learned in life, which lead to bigger blessings.”
For Laid3, the next chapter isn’t about abandoning the platform that helped build his audience. Instead, it’s about expanding his story, embracing his purpose, and proving that reinvention is possible for anyone willing to bet on themselves.
With a mixtape on the horizon, a podcast in development, and bigger aspirations in sight, Laid3 is ready for the world to see him for who he truly is: not just a viral personality, but an artist with something meaningful to say.
