XXXTentacion's life was profoundly shaped by a traumatic childhood and a lack of consistent parental support. Born to a financially struggling mother who was often disinterested in raising him, he spent much of his early years moving between homes, which contributed to his feelings of instability and abandonment14. His father was arrested and deported, further compounding his sense of loss and disconnection5. These early experiences fostered a nihilistic and volatile persona, reflected in both his music and personal life. Onfroy's struggles with depression and mental health issues were well-documented, often manifesting in violent behavior and legal troubles from a young age. By 17, he had already faced charges for firearm possession, armed robbery, and resisting arrest, among other offenses14. His music, characterized by themes of pain, depression, and emotional turmoil, mirrored his internal battles and the chaotic environment in which he was raised13.

XXXTentacion began his music career on SoundCloud in 2013, where he quickly gained a following with his unique blend of emo, trap, and lo-fi music. His first track, "Vice City," released in 2014, marked the beginning of his rise in the underground music scene. He was a pioneer in the SoundCloud rap genre, which allowed him to bypass traditional music distribution channels and connect directly with fans. His raw and unfiltered approach resonated with a young audience, leading to a cult following. The platform's democratizing effect enabled him to build a substantial fanbase, which later translated into mainstream success with hits like "Look at Me" and his debut album 17123.

Members Only is a hip-hop collective formed in 2014 by rappers Ski Mask The Slump God and XXXTentacion after they met in juvenile detention. The group originated in Broward County, Florida, and quickly became known for its raw and energetic style, contributing significantly to the SoundCloud rap movement. Members Only served as a platform for its members to collaborate and release music, fostering a sense of community and mutual support among emerging artists. The collective's influence grew as its members gained individual success, with XXXTentacion's rise to fame bringing additional attention to the group13.

XXXTentacion's relationship with his fans was uniquely intense, characterized by a deep personal connection to his confessional and autobiographical lyrics about pain and mental health struggles. His music, which often delved into themes of depression, suicide, and emotional turmoil, resonated profoundly with listeners who saw their own struggles reflected in his work12. This connection fostered a cult-like devotion, with many fans viewing him as a misunderstood prophet rather than a flawed individual1. Despite widespread knowledge of his abusive actions, including severe allegations of domestic violence, many fans chose to defend or dismiss these behaviors, focusing instead on the emotional solace his music provided23. This unwavering support was evident in the aftermath of his death, as his songs broke streaming records and his fanbase continued to grow, underscoring the powerful, albeit controversial, bond between XXXTentacion and his audience12.