On the Rvn was originally expected to be released on September 11, the same day that Young Thug turned himself into authorities for DeKalb County police in Georgia after a warrant was put out for his arrest for possession of and intent to distribute various drugs, as well as possession of a firearm. It was also originally supposed to be his debut studio album.[2] Although he had submitted the mixes before turning himself in, audio engineer and Thug's associate Alex Tumay stated that the clearance for the tracks would take time.[2] Thug was later released on bond.[2]
After his release, Thug teased the project on Instagram, releasing a video teaser featuring footage of news reports referencing the warrant.[3] Thug then announced On the Rvn would be released at midnight on September 24.[3]
On August 21, 2018, a song by Young Thug remixing Elton John's "Rocket Man" was leaked online.[4] Upon receiving warm reception, the song was released as the final song on the EP as "High" featuring Elton John.[5]
When the EP was released, guest features from Offset and T-Shyne were accidentally left off. T-Shyne's verse on "Real in My Veins" was added on 26 September.[6]