“Human spirit got killed because of the fear of being a Meme”: Tyler, The Creator opens up about new album ‘Don’t Tap the Glass’

Tyler, The Creator surprised fans by releasing his new album, Don’t Tap the Glass on July 21, 2025. The album has 10 songs and follows his 2024 release, Chromakopia. Early reviews say it is fun, energetic, and made for dancing.

Soon after the release, Tyler shared a long message on Instagram. He explained that the idea for the album came from a question he asked his friends: why do they avoid dancing in public? He said some of them answer, “Because of the fear of being filmed.” He added,

“It made me wonder how much of our human spirit got killed because of the fear of being a meme, all for having a good time.”

Then he described his private listening party. He said there were 300 people and told everyone - no phones, no cameras. He said they all danced, moved, and sweated. He called it “one of the greatest nights” of his life. He said it showed real freedom and energy. That night inspired him to make music that makes people move.

Tyler's call for real movement and freedom

Tyler used three rules to describe this album,

“1. Body movement. No sitting still. 2. Only speak in glory. Leave your baggage at home. 3. Don’t tap the glass.”

He wants listeners to feel the music and move with it. He said the album is best heard loud and while dancing, running, or driving. The album does sound different from his last work. Chromakopia was deep and emotional. This new one is full of upbeat songs and big sounds. One track samples a well-known party song from 2002. Another song, Stop Playing With Me, has a simple video with Tyler dancing hard in front of big speakers.

He also released the music video for Stop Playing With Me on the same day as the album. It features cameos from famous people like LeBron James and the rap duo Clipse. These appearances match the album’s feel‑good energy and call to dance.

Why is this album getting so much attention?

Tyler made this album in a world full of cameras and social media. He said he wants listeners to take a break from watching themselves and others. He said,

"It made me wonder how much of our human spirit got killed because of the fear of being a meme, all for having a good time."

The no‑phone listening party was a test. He wanted to see if people would really let go when no cameras were allowed. He said,

"I played the album front to back twice, it felt like that pent up energy finally got released and we craved the idea of letting more of it out. There was a freedom that filled the room."

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Don’t Tap the Glass is Tyler’s ninth studio album, released under Columbia Records. It has 10 tracks and lasts just under half an hour. This album marks a shift toward raw sound and real moments. Tyler used a surprise release to catch fans by surprise and let the idea land on its own. As more listeners explore the album, reviews will grow.

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