When people search for “The Kid LAROI age,” they’re often surprised to learn just how young he is considering his massive success. Born August 17, 2003, Charlton Kenneth Jeffrey Howard—better known by his stage name The Kid LAROI—is 21 years old as of 2025.

Despite his age, he’s already become one of the most recognized names in pop and hip-hop, known for blending emotional honesty with radio-ready melodies. His story proves that age is no barrier to global success when talent, timing, and hard work align.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

August 17, 2003 — The Beginning

The Kid LAROI was born in Waterloo, New South Wales, Australia, to a family with artistic roots. His mother worked in the music industry, which helped shape his early passion for hip-hop and R&B. Growing up, he was inspired by artists like Tupac Shakur, Kanye West, and The Fugees, and began writing lyrics before he was even a teenager.

By age 13, LAROI was already experimenting with recording and sharing his own music online. His raw talent stood out, earning him attention in Sydney’s underground scene and among local music producers.

Teenage Breakthrough

Between ages 14 and 17, his life changed dramatically. LAROI gained early recognition with his debut EP 14 With a Dream, a fitting title for a kid determined to make it big.

A major turning point came when he met the late rapper Juice WRLD, who became his mentor and close friend. Juice helped him refine his sound and introduced him to the global music scene. That mentorship helped LAROI transition from a promising Australian teenager to an international recording artist.

By age 17, his collaboration with Justin Bieber on the global smash hit “Stay” launched him into superstardom, topping charts worldwide and making him one of the youngest artists to achieve such success.

Why The Kid LAROI’s Age Matters

Youthful Perspective Shapes His Music

LAROI’s music stands out because it feels real, emotional, and rooted in the experiences of youth. His lyrics often revolve around heartbreak, growing up, and navigating fame—topics that resonate deeply with young listeners.

Albums and songs like Fck Love* and The First Time capture the raw energy of adolescence and early adulthood. His perspective isn’t nostalgic; it’s current. He’s writing about moments as he lives them, which gives his songs an authentic and relatable edge.

The Advantages and Pressures of Early Fame

Being successful so young has obvious perks—but also big challenges.

Advantages:

• He has years ahead to experiment and evolve artistically.
• Starting young allowed him to build a dedicated fanbase early.
• His relatability to Gen Z and Gen Alpha fans keeps him culturally relevant.

Challenges:

• Managing fame and pressure while still developing as a person.
• Maintaining longevity in a fast-changing industry.
• Dealing with scrutiny from both media and fans.

In interviews, LAROI has often said that growing up in the public eye isn’t easy. But it’s also clear that his age hasn’t stopped him from maintaining focus and pushing boundaries.

Age and Fan Connection

For fans, LAROI’s youth isn’t just trivia—it’s part of why they connect with him. He represents the idea that you don’t need to wait until you’re older to chase your dreams. Many of his fans are close to his age, making his lyrics feel personal and familiar.

At the same time, older fans admire his maturity and introspection. His ability to balance youthful emotion with professional polish is rare—and that’s part of his appeal.

A Case Study: “Stay” and the Power of Youth

Let’s look at his hit song “Stay” as a case study in how age and timing intersect.

Released in 2021 when LAROI was only 17 years old, “Stay” with Justin Bieber became a cultural phenomenon. The upbeat yet emotionally charged song dominated global charts and stayed at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 for weeks.

The success of “Stay” transformed LAROI’s career overnight. It showcased not only his songwriting ability but also his knack for connecting with both younger and older audiences. It was proof that, despite his youth, he could compete with the world’s biggest stars.

Since then, he’s continued to collaborate with major artists and headline tours—something few 21-year-olds can claim.

What 21 Looks Like for LAROI in 2025

Growing Beyond “The Kid”

Now that The Kid LAROI is 21, many wonder when he’ll drop “Kid” from his name. While that’s yet to happen, his recent music shows growing maturity and evolution. His 2023 album The First Time reflects deeper emotional storytelling and more complex production, marking a step into adulthood both musically and personally.

At 21, he’s at an exciting point: no longer a teenage prodigy, but not yet a veteran. This is where many artists reinvent themselves, experimenting with style, genre, and message.

What’s Next for His Career

If history is any indication, LAROI’s next few years will likely include:

• More experimentation across pop, R&B, and alternative sounds.
• Collaborations with diverse artists from different genres.
• Greater involvement in producing and creative direction.
• Continued global touring and brand partnerships.

He’s also hinted at using his platform to inspire young artists and give back to his community—something that reflects the maturity that comes with growing up in the spotlight.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Kid LAROI’s Age

Q: How old is The Kid LAROI right now (2025)?
He is 21 years old.

Q: When was The Kid LAROI born?
He was born on August 17, 2003, in Sydney, Australia.

Q: When will he turn 22?
He’ll celebrate his 22nd birthday on August 17, 2025.

Q: Did he become famous as a teenager?
Yes. His breakout hit “Stay” came out when he was 17, launching his global career while he was still in high school.

Q: How does his age affect his music?
His youth brings authenticity, vulnerability, and relatability to his lyrics, which focus on love, loss, and self-discovery.

Conclusion

The Kid LAROI’s age—21 years old in 2025—is a testament to just how quickly talent and drive can turn dreams into reality. From growing up in Sydney to topping charts alongside global superstars, his journey proves that success has no age limit.

What makes LAROI special isn’t just that he’s young; it’s that he’s managed to channel his youth into powerful, emotional storytelling that connects across generations.

As he moves through his twenties, fans can expect to see an artist who continues to evolve—balancing the energy of youth with the wisdom that comes from experience. One thing’s for sure: whether he’s “The Kid” or not, LAROI’s story is only just beginning.