British rapper Skepta listened to music by @apollored1 while preparing for the 2026 [1] Met Gala.
The revelation provides a glimpse into the psychological preparation of high-profile artists before one of the fashion world's most scrutinized events. By sharing his pre-event routine, Skepta highlights the influence of emerging artists on established global stars.
Skepta, whose real name is Joseph Junior Adenuga [1], attended the event at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City [2]. The rapper used the specific soundtrack to help him enter the correct mindset for the evening's festivities.
"I'm listening to @apollored1 while getting ready for the Met Gala," Skepta said [1].
The Met Gala is an annual fundraising event for the museum's costume institute. Attendees often use the occasion to blend high fashion with personal artistic expression, a process that for Skepta included a curated auditory experience.
Skepta's choice of music underscores the symbiotic relationship between veteran musicians and new talent. The rapper's public endorsement of @apollored1 serves as a significant platform for the artist during a high-visibility global event [1].
Throughout the preparation process, the rapper focused on the atmospheric quality of the music to maintain his composure before facing the international press and fashion elite in New York City [2].
“"I'm listening to @apollored1 while getting ready for the Met Gala,"”
The intersection of music and fashion at the Met Gala often extends beyond the red carpet. Skepta's use of a specific artist to manage his mindset illustrates how contemporary celebrities use curated audio environments to navigate the high-pressure expectations of elite social and professional appearances.
