Rio Da Yung OG Drops “Rio Free (Something Happen)”
Rio Da Yung OG, the Flint, Michigan rapper recently released after serving three years and eight months in prison, has dropped “Rio Free (Something Happen),” adding 10 new tracks to the original “Rio Free” EP—his first project since regaining his freedom.
The new edition arrives on the heels of the announcement of a massive 57-date tour, kicking off July 18 and making stops in Denver, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, New York, and more before wrapping up with a hometown show on October 10.
You can buy tickets here.
“Rio Free,” which features the viral hit “RIO FREE” and fan-favorite “WYDT,” has amassed over 50 million streams in its first month, earning Rio his first Billboard Top 200 entry. Since his release, he’s received co-signs from major artists like Lil Yachty and Veeze and made his first post-prison interview appearance on ‘Million Dollaz Worth of Game.’
Despite being behind bars since 2021, Rio remained one of Michigan rap’s most consistent and beloved voices. He released multiple projects during his incarceration—including “Fiend Lives Matter,” “The F Tape,” and “Rio Circa 2020“—while a steady stream of singles kept his name alive. His track “Legendary” even achieved gold certification, proving his influence never wavered.
News of Rio’s release sparked widespread excitement, with fans flooding social media to celebrate his return. On TikTok alone, millions of views have poured in from fans rapping along to his songs, underscoring how deeply his music resonated—even while he was locked up.
Rio Da Yung OG’s music stands out for its raw storytelling, dark humor, and unfiltered detail, offering listeners a vivid glimpse into his world. His contributions have been instrumental in pushing Flint and Michigan to the forefront of a new rap renaissance, alongside Boyz ENT and EMPIRE contemporaries Peezy and RMC Mike.
Now free, Rio is back to lead the movement he helped build.
