Fetty Wap says he feels “new” and focused after release from prison

Fetty Wap says he is embracing a fresh outlook on life following his recent release from prison.

In a new interview with Rolling Stone, published Friday, Jan. 23, the “Trap Queen” rapper reflected on how his mindset has changed after spending nearly four years behind bars.

“I could say that whatever I lost when I went in, it was meant to be lost,” the 34-year-old New Jersey native said. “When I came out, I left it there. I just feel different. I feel new. I feel rehabilitated, in a sense.”

Fetty Wap, whose real name is Willie Junior Maxwell II, was arrested in October 2021 at the Rolling Loud music festival in New York on federal drug trafficking charges. He was later sentenced to six years in prison but was released early on Jan. 8 from a low-security facility in Sandstone, Minnesota.

Now home, the artist says the word that best describes how he feels is “free.”

When asked about the first thing he did just for himself after his release, Fetty Wap pointed to a small but meaningful moment. “Take a shower with my shoes off,” he said, explaining that inmates are required to wear shower shoes in prison. “It’s little things you don’t think about, but you don’t take them for granted anymore.”

The rapper also said he is committed to slowing down after years of moving at a nonstop pace, especially following his rapid rise to fame in 2015 with hits like “Trap Queen,” “679,” and “My Way.”

“I promised myself this time I’m just going to take my time through life,” he said. “Really enjoy life.”

That includes making memories, spending time with loved ones, and appreciating opportunities he knows many people never get. Faith, he added, played a major role in helping him stay motivated during his sentence.

Fetty Wap also focused on his physical health while incarcerated, saying he gained significant muscle through discipline and routine. “I went to prison at like 140 pounds. I came home at like 225,” he shared.

As a father of six, he is especially excited to reconnect with his children and watch them grow. For now, he’s enjoying learning about their favorite colors, games, and interests — including watching them bond over Roblox group chats.

Looking ahead, Fetty Wap confirmed that new music is on the way. However, he says his upcoming work won’t dwell on hardship.

“We’re going to have fun,” he said. “It’s going to make you feel good. It’s going to make you want to get dressed and go outside. We’re going to vibe.”

The rapper says this chapter is about gratitude, patience, and enjoying life — one moment at a time.