Lil Tjay: The Ultimate Guide
Posted by Onassis Krown on
Everything You Want to Know About Lil Tjay
When you think about the new generation of hip-hop artists making waves and defining the sound of melodic rap, one name that consistently rises to the top is Lil Tjay. A young artist from the Bronx, New York, Lil Tjay’s meteoric rise in the music industry has been fueled by raw talent, personal resilience, and an unwavering connection with his fans. This ultimate guide covers everything you need to know about his life, career, music, struggles, and achievements.
Who Is Lil Tjay?
Lil Tjay, born Tione Jayden Merritt on April 30, 2001, grew up in the Fordham neighborhood of the Bronx in New York City. Raised by a single mother alongside two younger siblings, Tjay's early life was marked by adversity. Like many young men growing up in underprivileged neighborhoods, he faced the temptations of street life and became involved in petty crimes at a young age.
But out of those challenging beginnings came the seeds of his artistry. During a stint in a youth detention center, Lil Tjay began writing raps as a form of therapy and self-expression. What started as a way to process his life experiences quickly revealed itself to be a remarkable talent.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
In 2017, Lil Tjay began uploading his music to SoundCloud, a platform known for launching the careers of many new-age hip-hop artists. Tracks like “Resume” and “Brothers” quickly gained traction. His ability to blend street narratives with melodic hooks resonated with listeners, earning him a loyal following almost overnight.
His big break came after performing at a Coast 2 Coast LIVE showcase in New York City. The performance caught the attention of talent scouts and soon led to a deal with Columbia Records. With a major label backing him, Lil Tjay began releasing official projects that would solidify his place in the industry.
In 2018, he released his debut EP, “No Comparison,” featuring the viral hit “None of Your Love,” which creatively sampled Justin Bieber’s “Baby.” The song amassed millions of streams and introduced Tjay’s sound to a broader audience.
Breakout Success and Collaborations
Lil Tjay's star power took a major leap in 2019 when he featured on Polo G’s hit single “Pop Out.” The track soared to No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100, exposing Tjay to mainstream audiences. Around the same time, his single “F.N” became his first charting song as a lead artist, further establishing his reputation.
Later that year, Tjay released his debut studio album, “True 2 Myself.” The project debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200, a remarkable achievement for a young artist just a couple of years into his career. The album was eventually certified double platinum, confirming that Lil Tjay wasn’t just a one-hit wonder — he was here to stay.
Musical Style and Influences
Lil Tjay’s music falls within the realm of melodic rap — a style that blends rapped verses with sung, Auto-Tuned hooks. His tracks often detail personal struggles, street life, love, and ambition. The vulnerability in his lyrics and emotive vocal delivery set him apart from many of his contemporaries.
He has cited Drake, Meek Mill, and Usher as major influences, which is evident in the fusion of melodic R&B elements with hard-hitting rap verses. Critics and fans alike have often compared his sound to A Boogie wit da Hoodie, another Bronx native, though Tjay has successfully carved out his own niche in the genre.
State of Emergency and New York Drill
In 2020, Lil Tjay dropped the EP “State of Emergency,” a project that embraced New York’s thriving drill scene. Featuring collaborations with artists like Fivio Foreign and the late Pop Smoke, the EP reflected the gritty, street-oriented side of Tjay’s artistry while still incorporating his signature melodic touch.
The standout track “Zoo York” became a fan favorite, showcasing the synergy between the city’s young stars and cementing Lil Tjay’s position as a versatile artist who could effortlessly navigate different sounds within hip-hop.
Destined 2 Win and Commercial Highs
In 2021, Lil Tjay released his second studio album, “Destined 2 Win.” The album debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 and included one of his biggest hits to date, “Calling My Phone” featuring 6lack. The single reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Tjay’s highest-charting song as a lead artist.
The album balanced introspective tracks with street anthems, demonstrating both the artist’s growth and his commitment to telling authentic stories from his life. Songs like “Headshot” with Polo G and Fivio Foreign showcased his collaborative prowess, while tracks like “Run It Up” featuring Moneybagg Yo and Offset highlighted his ability to hold his own alongside established industry veterans.
The 2022 Shooting Incident
Lil Tjay’s journey hasn’t been without its trials. On June 22, 2022, he was the victim of a violent attempted robbery in Edgewater, New Jersey. The rapper was shot multiple times — reports indicate he was hit seven times — and was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
The incident shook fans and the hip-hop community alike. Thankfully, Tjay underwent successful surgery and began a long road to recovery. The assailant was later arrested and charged with attempted murder and other related crimes.
Not one to shy away from adversity, Lil Tjay used the experience as inspiration for his music. In August 2022, he released “Beat the Odds,” a single recounting his near-death experience, resilience, and gratitude for a second chance at life. The raw emotion and honesty in the track reminded fans of the very qualities that had endeared them to Tjay in the first place.
Third Studio Album: 222
In 2023, Lil Tjay returned with his highly anticipated third studio album, “222.” The title carried personal significance — it referenced both an angel number and the time he was airlifted to the hospital following the 2022 shooting.
The album included collaborations with notable artists such as The Kid LAROI, NBA YoungBoy, Jadakiss, Summer Walker, and Fivio Foreign. “222” served as a testament to Tjay’s resilience and growth, both as a person and an artist. It addressed themes of survival, loyalty, fame, and introspection, delivering some of his most mature and reflective work to date.
Farewell EP and Independent Moves
By 2024, Lil Tjay had fulfilled his contractual obligations with Columbia Records and released a final project under the label, “Farewell.” The EP featured guest appearances from NLE Choppa, Rich the Kid, Polo G, and G Herbo.
The project felt like a reflective conclusion to a chapter in Tjay’s career, with songs exploring topics of betrayal, lessons learned, and gratitude. Rumors swirled about whether Tjay would go independent or sign with a new label, but what remained clear was his desire to take control of his career and artistic direction.
Legal Issues and Personal Life
Like many young artists in the hip-hop industry, Lil Tjay has had his share of legal troubles. In 2019, he was arrested in Brooklyn for firearm and marijuana possession. In 2023, he faced similar charges after being pulled over during a traffic stop in the Bronx. Tjay’s legal team has consistently contested these charges, often citing issues with unlawful search procedures.
In terms of his personal life, Lil Tjay was linked romantically to rapper Rubi Rose in 2020. Their on-again, off-again relationship made headlines, though both have largely kept the details private in recent years.
Lil Tjay’s Legacy and Influence
Though still in his early twenties, Lil Tjay’s influence on modern hip-hop is undeniable. His melodic, emotionally charged style has helped shape the current sound of rap and inspired a new generation of artists.
He’s not just a product of his environment; he’s a testament to how raw talent, resilience, and authenticity can carve a path out of even the most difficult circumstances.
Whether it’s through his chart-topping singles, heartfelt ballads, or gritty street anthems, Lil Tjay has proven he’s more than just a fleeting name in the industry. He’s an artist with a story worth telling — and he’s only just begun.
Final Thoughts
From SoundCloud uploads to Billboard charts, from near-death experiences to platinum plaques, Lil Tjay’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and triumph. His ability to channel pain and adversity into music that resonates with millions is a testament to his artistry and humanity.
As he continues to evolve, both personally and professionally, one thing is certain: Lil Tjay isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. His story, music, and message will continue to inspire fans around the world for years to come.
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