42 Dugg Reunites With Lil Baby and Rylo Rodriguez on New Single “It Is What It Is”

Detroit heavyweight 42 Dugg is ushering in his next era with the release of “It Is What It Is,” a highly anticipated new single featuring Lil Baby and Rylo Rodriguez. Arriving this Friday via CMG Records/4PF/Interscope Records, the track sets the tone for Dugg’s forthcoming mixtape, slated for release on January 23.

“It Is What It Is” marks a powerful reunion between three of rap’s most dependable and distinctive voices. Over a moody, hard-edged production, Dugg leans back into his trademark introspective aggression, delivering sharp, reflective bars that balance street realism with emotional weight. Lil Baby meets him with equally raw intensity, while Rylo Rodriguez rounds out the record with his signature melodic grit, bringing a smooth but streetwise contrast that ties the collaboration together.

The single arrives alongside a striking black-and-white music video that underscores the song’s emotional depth. The visual opens with haunting imagery of ballerina dancers and a cello player, surrounded by masked figures wearing “RIP” shirts, immediately setting a somber, reflective tone. From there, the focus shifts to the artists themselves: Dugg performs from the back of an SUV alongside Lil Baby, before Baby steps into his own solo moment. Rylo later joins Dugg, the two pairing their flows for a memorable closing sequence that reinforces the chemistry behind the record.

“It Is What It Is” continues the steady momentum Dugg has built through a consistent run of impactful releases and visuals, further cementing his reputation as one of hip-hop’s most compelling storytellers. His upcoming mixtape is expected to expand on this foundation, offering fans a deeper look into his growth, perspective, and renewed creative focus.

The release follows closely behind “It Get Deeper Pt. 3,” Dugg’s recent collaboration with Doughboy Clay and the latest installment in his long-running fan-favorite series. That track finds Dugg reflecting candidly on street life and the pressures that come with success, paired with a Paradice Media–directed video that captures moments from life on the road, downtime with his crew, and the rewards of relentless work.

Beyond new music, Dugg has spent the year strengthening his connection with fans across the country. He recently wrapped a 20-city tour in support of his debut studio album, 4eva Us, Neva Them. The project features an impressive lineup of collaborators, including Lil Baby, Meek Mill, Sexyy Red, Jeezy, EST Gee, Rylo Rodriguez, and Blac Youngsta, and standout tracks such as “Fresh From The Feds,” “Catch 1,” “Go Again Pt. 2,” and “4eva Us Freestyle.” Together, the album and tour offered a deeper look into the mindset and lived experience of the 29-year-old star, solidifying his place as a central voice in today’s rap landscape.