Lloyd‘s drastic new look had fans in pure shock initially until he explained why he said goodbye to his curly tresses.
“I cut my hair as a tribute to my beautiful Aunt Diane, Aunt Sue, and Uncle Ellis, as an act of solidarity as they fight each day to #BeatCancer,” he shared on Instagram. “Let this New Year be a year of reincarnation and rebirth, and prove it’s okay to let go of the attachments that weigh us down, giving us all the opportunity to really focus on the things that matter the most.”
The “Lay It Down” singer debuted his haircut onstage at Usher’s Past Present Future Tour.
When sharing footage of the surprise performance with the King of R&B, Lloyd wrote, “Dear inspiration, also known as @usher , thank you for the countless hours of practice, sacrifice, and dedication that you’ve given to the world through your music.”
He continued, “You’ve had a profound impact on my life since I was a kid, and have played an integral role in my journey, both directly and indirectly. I often learn from you without having to speak to you, which is what leading by example is all about.”
Lloyd reflected on first meeting Ursher at age 11 and reuniting with him while recording his 2007 classic hit, “Get It Shawty.” Fast forward “to this week rocking the stage with you in Miami,” Lloyd expressed, “I have been blessed beyond compare. I literally had goosebumps the whole time, and felt like I was 11 yrs old all over again.”
He later thanked God for “giving me the chance to pay homage to one of my heroes through the gift of performance that you have bestowed upon me.”