The Introspective Genius: 5 Ways Tyler, The Creator’s “Like Him” Defines His CHROMAKOPIA Era

The phrase "Like Him" is not just a lyric, but the title of a deeply introspective track from Tyler, The Creator's critically acclaimed 2024 album, CHROMAKOPIA. Released amidst a whirlwind of career-defining achievements—including being named Apple Music's Artist of the Year for 2025—the song serves as a raw, vulnerable centerpiece, exposing the complex emotional landscape of one of music's most enigmatic figures.

As of December 2025, the song "Like Him" has sparked intense discussion among fans and critics, who view it as a pivotal moment in Tyler Gregory Okonma's artistic evolution. This track, featuring the soulful vocals of English singer Lola Young, moves beyond the character-driven narratives of his previous works, offering a direct, almost aching look at his personal struggle with identity and the profound impact of an absent paternal figure on his life.

Tyler Gregory Okonma: Complete Artist Profile

Tyler, the Creator, born Tyler Gregory Okonma, is a polymath whose influence spans music, fashion, and visual art. His career is marked by continuous transformation, moving from the abrasive, controversial sound of his early work to the lush, orchestral, and introspective style of his Grammy-winning later albums.

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• Full Name: Tyler Gregory Okonma
• Born: March 6, 1991 (Age 34 as of late 2025)
• Hometown: Hawthorne, California, U.S.
• Occupations: Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Director, Fashion Designer
• Key Collaborations: Pharrell Williams, Frank Ocean, Kali Uchis, A$AP Rocky, Lola Young
• Major Projects/Groups: Founder of the hip-hop collective Odd Future (OFWGKTA) and the fashion brand GOLF WANG.
• Grammy Wins: Best Rap Album for IGOR (2020) and Best Rap Album for Call Me If You Get Lost (2022).
• Recent Honors (2025): Apple Music Artist of the Year, Variety's Innovator of the Decade Award.

Okonma’s artistry is defined by his subversive approach to pop culture and his relentless pursuit of creative freedom. His willingness to constantly reinvent his sound and aesthetic—from the bright, pastel colors of the *Flower Boy* era to the preppy, sophisticated looks of *CHROMAKOPIA*—cements his status as a true innovator.

The Deep Dive: Unpacking the Meaning of "Like Him"

The song "Like Him" (Track 13 on *CHROMAKOPIA*) is arguably the most emotionally resonant piece on the album. It is a four-minute, twenty-second journey into Tyler's psyche, where the central conflict revolves around the shadow cast by the man he never truly knew: his father. The phrase "Like Him" acts as a painful, recurring question about inherited traits and the fear of mirroring an absent figure.

1. The Paternal Figure and Inherited Traits

The core theme of "Like Him" is Tyler's struggle with his identity in relation to his absent father. The song opens with a poignant voice memo from his mother, Bonita Smith, who notes a physical resemblance, saying, "Damn, nigga, every time I look at you, I swear to God / Nigga, you got that nigga feet." This seemingly small detail immediately establishes the song’s premise: the unavoidable, physical connection to a man who was not present.

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The lyrics repeatedly question whether he possesses the same negative qualities as his father—the same instability, the same propensity to leave. This internal conflict is a powerful exploration of nature versus nurture. Is he destined to be "like him," or can he forge his own path? This vulnerability is a trademark of Tyler’s mature work, contrasting sharply with the brash persona of his *Goblin* days.

2. The Significance of Lola Young's Feature

The inclusion of English singer Lola Young is crucial to the song's emotional weight. Her soulful, haunting vocals provide a contrasting perspective and a sense of melancholic introspection. Young’s contribution elevates the track from a simple rap song to a complex, layered musical piece. Her voice often acts as the conscience or the emotional echo chamber, reinforcing the pervasive feeling of longing and uncertainty that Tyler is expressing.

The collaboration highlights Tyler’s sophisticated ear for curation, a skill he has honed across albums like *IGOR* and *Call Me If You Get Lost*. He consistently chooses vocalists who can convey deep emotion without overshadowing his own narrative, making the feature feel essential rather than ornamental.

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CHROMAKOPIA: The Album Context and Theatrical Themes

To fully grasp "Like Him," one must understand the theatrical and highly personal nature of its parent album, *CHROMAKOPIA*. Released in 2024, the album continues Tyler's trend of creating concept-driven records, though this one is less character-focused than *IGOR* or *Flower Boy*. Instead, it's a deep dive into genuine personal anxieties and experiences.

The album’s themes are centered around the discovery of one's true identity, the fear of fatherhood, and the influence of his mother on his life. *CHROMAKOPIA* is characterized by its experimental sounds, blending jazz, rock, and orchestral arrangements, showcasing Tyler’s progression as a producer. The sonic palette is rich and complex, often mirroring the tumultuous emotions in the lyrics.

3. A Soundtrack to Internal Conflict

The production on "Like Him" is deliberately sparse and moody, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. This choice is a masterclass in musical storytelling. The instrumentation—often featuring melancholic piano chords and subtle, driving basslines—creates a soundscape that perfectly captures the feeling of a cold, hard truth being confronted. The song uses repetition of the titular phrase to simulate an internal echo, the thought that keeps running through Tyler's mind: "Do I look like him? Am I going to be like him?"

This introspective style is a direct continuation of the emotional maturity Tyler first displayed on *Flower Boy* and refined on his subsequent Grammy-winning projects. It speaks to a broader audience who grapple with generational trauma and the search for self-acceptance outside of a traditional family structure.

Tyler’s Cultural Impact and Legacy (2025)

Tyler, the Creator's influence extends far beyond a single song or album. His recent accolades in 2025—including the Innovator of the Decade Award—underscore his long-term impact on music, fashion, and youth culture. He has successfully cultivated a unique ecosystem around his brand, transforming from a controversial figure to a respected cultural icon.

4. The GOLF WANG and Preppy Aesthetic Influence

Tyler’s fashion label, GOLF WANG, and its associated aesthetic have become synonymous with his style evolution. The shift from skate-punk graphics to a more refined, preppy look—characterized by loafers, cardigans, knitted sweaters, and pastel colors—has been hugely influential on younger generations. This style, which is prominent in the *CHROMAKOPIA* era, represents a maturation that mirrors his musical journey.

He has turned staple pieces into high-fashion statements, proving that the lines between streetwear and luxury are increasingly blurred. This visual identity is part of his overall topical authority, as his influence is felt in every creative field he touches.

5. The Future: Hollywood and Continued Evolution

Looking ahead, Tyler is not slowing down. Recent news in 2025 has highlighted his foray into Hollywood, with a big-screen debut that promises to add "actor" to his already extensive resume. This move is a natural progression for an artist who has always incorporated visual elements and cinematic narratives into his music videos and album concepts.

His constant need to evolve and explore new mediums is what keeps his work fresh and unique. "Like Him" is a testament to this, showing that even at the height of his commercial success and critical acclaim, he is willing to strip away the bravado and confront the most vulnerable parts of his personal history. The song is not just a track; it is a profound artistic statement about self-discovery and the relentless pursuit of one’s own identity, separate from the shadows of the past.