From Truck Driver to Platinum Artist: Atlus Announces Raw and Personal EP

Atlus, the platinum-certified recording artist known for turning life's hardships into universal anthems, has announced his official label debut EP, Secondhand Smoke, arriving on October 10. This six-song collection is more than just a musical project; it's a profound look into the artist's personal history. After a remarkable journey from working as a commercial truck driver to becoming a viral sensation with a billion-plus on-demand streams, Atlus is now ready to share his most vulnerable work yet.

Maria Rabellino September 12, 2025

A New Chapter For a Viral Hitmaker

Atlus’s rise to prominence is a story of grit and resilience. Raised in a single-parent home shaped by poverty and and addiction, he began writing songs behind the wheel of his truck to help support his family. This background fueled a commitment to authenticity that has resonated deeply with millions of fans. His music has garnered massive attention, including a Platinum single and a performance alongside Jelly Roll at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Now, with the backing of BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, he’s bringing that same raw honesty to a major-label stage.

Confronting the Past to Forge a New Path

The songs on Secondhand Smoke pull back the curtain on Atlus’s life, directly addressing topics like a turbulent home life, his mother’s resilience, his sister’s battle with addiction, and his own journey with mental health. As he explains, “The songs on Secondhand Smoke are more than just individual tracks; they are chapters from my life.” This deeply personal approach ensures every song tells a real story. The new single “IOD on YOU,” out today, is a prime example, transforming his family’s history of addiction into a striking love story with an uplifting soundscape.

The Power of Authentic Storytelling

Atlus’s music is a testament to the power of authentic storytelling. He proves that personal struggles, when shared with honesty, can become universal sources of hope. His hope is that his music will “push somebody out there to keep fighting, dreaming, and that there is something in one of those chapters that helps them keep showing up.” As Atlus prepares for a special performance at Nashville’s Cannery Hall on October 9, the anticipation for this revealing EP is building.