in september 2014, aiko released her debut album, "souled out", which was met with critical success. in 2016, aiko collaborated with american rapper big sean for the 8-track album "twenty88" as a duo under the same name. "trip" was originally announced in under the name "trip 17", creating anticipation with non-album singles such as "maniac", "first fuck" with 6lack, and "hello ego" with chris brown between 2016 throughout early and mid-2017.