Kid Cudi Remembers Virgil Abloh With Moving Heavenly Birthday Tribute
Kid Cudi shared a emotional video message on Instagram wishing a happy heavenly birthday to his late friend, fashion designer Virgil Abloh. According to reporting by Complex, the musician spoke candidly about their long-standing creative bond, shared memories, and Abloh's enduring influence.
Musician and actor Kid Cudi paid tribute to his late friend and collaborator Virgil Abloh on Wednesday, September 30, honoring what would have been the visionary designer's 46th birthday, according to reporting by Complex.
In a candid video shared on Instagram, Cudi addressed the late fashion pioneer directly while reflecting on their bond and the personal memories they shared over the years. Cudi expressed his continued affection and gratitude for the guidance and inspiration he received from Abloh throughout his creative journey.
According to the video cited by Complex, Cudi said, "Yo, it's that time of year again. I want to take the time to just wish my brother a heavenly happy birthday." He continued in the clip, "Virgil, we love you. We miss you. I'm over here smoking this blunt thinking about all the amazing moments we had together."
The relationship between the two figures spans more than a decade. Complex reported that Cudi first met Abloh in 2009, with the two becoming fast friends. Their personal connection extended into professional projects, as Cudi repeatedly collaborated with Off-White, the luxury brand established by Abloh. Earlier this year, Cudi partnered with Off-White on a collaborative fashion collection.
During the birthday video message, Cudi reflected on the lessons Abloh imparted and expressed a desire to keep making his friend proud. "I think about you all the time, we miss you," Cudi said in the Instagram video. "I hope you proud of me, man. … The shit I learned from you, you know, I hope I did you proud, man. We love you, bro. We love you. We miss you every day. Peace and love, man. Happy birthday."
Abloh, who gained international acclaim as the founder of Off-White and artistic director at Louis Vuitton, was diagnosed with cardiac angiosarcoma in 2019. He chose to keep his health struggle private prior to his death in November 2021 at the age of 41, according to Complex reporting. Cudi's tribute illustrates how deeply Abloh's memory and mentorship continue to influence his peers across music and fashion.