Music news: After leaving Euphoria weeks before the premiere, Labrinth enters his next chapter
Labrinth, the composer behind Euphoria’s defining sound, has left the hit TV show, expressing his frustration with the music industry.
In a statement on Instagram, the artist called out the show, saying: “I don’t want to use anyone I don’t want to be used… fake ain’t a good business plan.”
Since leaving the show, fans are wondering what’s next for Labrinth, writes Music News Blitz’s Olivia Carolan.
Labrinth's impact on Euphoria
Less than a month before the highly anticipated premiere of Euphoria season three, Labrinth clarified that he had stepped away from the show, stating on Instagram that he was “done” and didn’t like how he was treated.
More than background noise, the artist was an integral part of the show, curating its identity and shaping how scenes were interpreted. Many believe the new season won’t be the same without him.
His soundtrack defined the series, reflecting the characters’ psychological states and reinforcing the show's themes of identity, addiction, and emotional instability.
With songs such as ‘Still Don’t Know My Name’ and ‘Formula,’ Labrinth shaped the show's emotional depth in its early seasons.
In an interview with GQ, he stated that as the cast and directors became more famous, respect began to deteriorate. “Everyone's turning into their own Louis Vuitton bag,” he said.
His career before Euphoria
Many know Labrinth from his remarkable soundtrack for Euphoria, but where did it all start?
In 2010, he signed with Simon Cowell's record label Syco Music and has since built a career as a singer, songwriter, and producer.
His early success began with his collaboration with Tinie Tempah, and he has since worked with a wide range of artists, including The Weeknd, Beyoncé, and Rihanna, as both a producer and co-writer.
His first solo single, ‘Let the Sun Shine,’ reached the top five on the UK Singles Chart, while his debut album Electronic Earth established him as a major talent.
Winning awards ranging from the BRIT Awards to the Grammy Awards, his 2014 single ‘Jealous’ was certified Platinum in the UK.
Since then, he has performed at Coachella, marking a major moment in his career, bringing out guest performers such as Zendaya and Billie Eilish.
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Moving forward
The prominent artist returned to the festival in 2026, continuing his new chapter since leaving Euphoria, while still performing parts of his iconic soundtrack, showing his work remains influential.
This time, he took a solo approach with no guest performances, perhaps signalling his intention to move away from reliance on collaborations.
Taking his own artistic direction, he released an album on January 30, COSMIC OPERA ACT I, and has announced part two of the album for May 29.
On the same day that the first episode of Euphoria season three premiered, he released a new single, ‘SHUT YOUR DAMN,’ adding to the ongoing discussion, intentional or coincidence?
With lyrics such as “Riding like a lone ranger, I could do this by myself,” many wonder whether the new single coincides with his decision to leave Euphoria.
Earlier this week, he announced his American tour, The Undoing Tour, stating on Instagram: “I’m not done.”
With his new album, he is redefining his career, positioning himself as more than just part of Euphoria, but as an artist in his own right.
Despite his immense success with the show, he has chosen creative freedom, refusing to be defined by it.
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What does this mean for the music industry?
As Labrinth leaves Euphoria, it reflects a broader shift among artists seeking independence and creative control.
His departure highlights the tensions that can arise when the music and entertainment industries intersect.
The show's creator and writer, Sam Levinson, told Rolling Stone, “I wanted to lean into an old-fashioned Hollywood Western score.”
This raises an important question: how do artists create what they envision when directors have their own creative direction?
Who ultimately takes control?
While many questions remain unanswered, Labrinth steps into his next chapter on his own terms, with his tour beginning on July 31.
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