Tyler's early releases, including Bastard (2009) and Goblin (2011), featured gritty, horrorcore-influenced lyrics during this era, Tyler was often criticized for his use of homophobic and misogynistic slurs. After releasing his debut studio album, Goblin, via XL Recordings in April 2011, he signed a joint deal with RED Distribution and Sony Music Entertainment for himself and his label, Odd Future Records. Following a large contribution to Odd Future's early work, Tyler released his debut solo mixtape, Bastard, in 2009. Tyler Gregory Okonma (born March 6, 1991), professionally known as Tyler, the Creator, is an American rapper and record producer.