How Lil Nas X got his name(s)

Breakout star Lil Nas X recently divulged the story behind the name we all know him for and the name on his driver’s license in an interview with Jimmy Fallon.

The “Panini” hip-hop artist, a native of Lithia Springs, spoke virtually with Fallon on “The Tonight Show” about his career and his unique stage name. The 21-yearold also offered some background on his memorable real name in the lighthearted interview.

Since spawning hit “Old

Town Road,” Lil Nas X, whose real name is Montero Hill, has won two Grammy Awards and released other Billboard hits. In his chat with Fallon, he talked about how he crafted the hip-hop image that led to his success. It all started with the name, which he said was inspired by other rap artists — think Lil Wayne and Lil Uzi Vert — who rose to prominence with “Lil” names.

Since his real name, Montero, is also unique, Fallon asked the musician about its origin, which Lil Nas X said was “slightly embarrassing but not embarrassing.” He said his mom came up with the name in honor of her favorite car at the time.

“So my mom wanted the car, the [Mitsubishi] Montero, and she never got one ... so, yeah, I’m named after a car.”