Laugh Now, Fly Later

Released in late 2017 as a precursor to his full-length studio album Rolling Papers 2, Laugh Now, Fly Later serves as a focused mixtape that highlights Wiz Khalifa's ability to curate a specific sonic atmosphere. Moving away from the EDM-influenced pop rap of his mid-2010s era, this project leans heavily into 'nocturnal trap' and 'cloud rap' aesthetics. The production, largely handled by frequent collaborators like Cookin' Soul and Sledgren, utilizes lush synthesizer pads and crisp 808 percussion to create a sense of 'luxury rap.' The track 'City of Steel' stands out as a significant moment, offering a longer-form, atmospheric tribute to his Pittsburgh origins. Critically, the album was seen as a return to the 'cool' and 'hazy' vibes of his earlier mixtape run, prioritizing flow and vibe over commercial hooks. It occupies a space in his catalog as a transitional, mood-heavy project that bridges his mainstream success with his underground roots.