Nashville, TN – Platinum recording artist Atlus makes his BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville debut with the release of his deeply personal six-song EP, Secondhand Smoke, available everywhere today. The project marks a defining new chapter for the viral hitmaker whose journey from underground sensation to national recording artist has inspired millions.
Turning Struggles Into Stories
“The songs on Secondhand Smoke are more than just individual tracks; they are chapters from my life,” says Atlus. “Each one tells a story that I’ve lived through, and I hope they push somebody out there to keep fighting and dreaming.”
On this new collection, Atlus opens up about his past — a turbulent home life, his mother’s strength, his sister’s battle with addiction, and his own struggles with mental health. Each track, written or co-written by Atlus, blends emotional truth with the gritty storytelling that has defined his career.
A Tribute to Family and Resilience
The title track, “Secondhand Smoke,” serves as a moving tribute to his mother and to hardworking women everywhere. He recalls her long shifts, overdue payments, and moments of solace found in a simple cigarette — her only form of therapy. “I didn’t care about secondhand smoke because I saw what she was going through,” he shares.
“Baby Momma,” another standout track, continues that homage, weaving in a voice note from his mom singing a melody written by his late grandfather — a symbolic bridge between generations and genres.
From Truck Driver to Chart-Topping Artist
Before fame, the 33-year-old artist worked double shifts as a truck driver, UPS worker, and Uber driver to pay for studio time. His determination led to over a billion on-demand streams, a Platinum single, and collaborations with artists like Jelly Roll, including a packed show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Now signed to BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, Atlus continues his rise with Secondhand Smoke and his debut radio single “Devil Ain’t Done,” impacting country radio October 13. The track showcases his signature blend of country grit, pop melody, and hip-hop influence — a sound that’s both universal and unmistakably his own.
Listen to Secondhand Smoke now on all major streaming platforms.
Photo Credit: Spidey Smith
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