Steve Lacy, the innovative singer-songwriter and producer, has reached a significant milestone on Spotify as his acclaimed single “Bad Habit” surpasses one billion streams, marking his second track to achieve this feat.
“Bad Habit” joins the ranks of Lacy’s previous hit “Dark Red,” which also crossed the billion-stream mark in October 2023, solidifying his status as a streaming powerhouse.
A standout from his sophomore album Gemini Rights, released via RCA Records, “Bad Habit” captivated listeners with its infectious blend of soulful melodies and introspective lyrics. Co-written by Lacy alongside John Carroll Kirby, Fousheé, Diana Gordon, and Matthew Castellanos, the track embodies the essence of Lacy’s musical evolution.
Gemini Rights made waves upon its debut, landing at No. 7 on the Billboard 200 chart and garnering critical acclaim for its refreshing sound and thematic depth. With collaborations featuring Matt Martians and Fousheé, the album offered a glimpse into Lacy’s artistic journey and personal growth.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind “Bad Habit,” Lacy shared with Grammy.com, “It’s a story that is very fluid [and] very fun. To me, the subject matter could be sad if you look at it that way, but I feel like it is way more hopeful — and that’s the story: finding happiness. I’m finding myself after a heartbreak.”
The success of “Bad Habit” extended beyond streaming metrics, earning Lacy his first No. 1 on the Hot 100 chart during the week of Oct. 8, 2022. Additionally, Gemini Rights garnered widespread recognition, earning Lacy four nominations at the 65th Grammy Awards and securing his first Grammy win for Best Progressive R&B Album.
While Lacy has been relatively quiet on the music release front since the Gemini Rights era, his creative endeavors continue unabated. He recently co-produced Summer Walker’s acclaimed track “Agayu’s Revelation” and teased new music with his band, The Internet, hinting at an exciting future for the acclaimed artist.
In a testament to The Internet’s enduring impact, the band received two new certifications from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for their hits “Girl” featuring Kaytranada and “Special Affair,” further solidifying their status as pioneers of contemporary R&B.
As fans continue to immerse themselves in the timeless allure of “Bad Habit” and eagerly anticipate Lacy’s next musical chapter, his influence and innovation within the music industry remain steadfast. Stream “Bad Habit” on Spotify to experience the magic of Steve Lacy’s iconic sound.
