Executive Voice
Interview with New Jersey Hip Hop Artist TyLoTheGentleman
Tell us about your background; what has gotten you to where you are today?
“I am the oldest of 6 boys. I have always been the class clown and musically inclined. Mom helped me with acting and public speaking, and my dad helped me with music. I love performing in front of people and making sure they have a great time. I also love making people laugh. Our mother forced us to go to Mr. Ray Tyler’s writing workshop, and then we ended up turning our poetry into music. I started an Instagram page where I would post music and comedy. The comedy took off first. The music started to follow shortly after.”
Where are you from?
“I am from Atlantic City, New Jersey. I grew up in a rough area, but it made me the strong and motivated person that I am today.”
When did you start music?
“I started performing in church at a really young age, but started rapping with my I got into music because my dad (Tyrone Logan Sr.) played piano/keyboard for many different churches in the Atlantic brother Stephen Logan aka @therealsteviemccall about 12 years ago.”
What is the most challenging thing you have overcome in your life?
“The most challenging thing I have ever had to overcome was the statistics in my area. Most people from that area die early, are hooked on drugs, or are in jail. I made it out of the “hood” and graduated from Rutgers University. I am starting to make a better life for myself and my family. I am also starting to show other people from my neighborhood that there is a better life outside of the city.”
Are you currently signed or independent?
“I am currently independent. I always reinvest any money I make back into my craft because I know I can compete with the best artists that are out if enough people get an opportunity to hear me.”
Who inspires you the most musically?
“My brothers inspire me the most musically because we all are in constant friendly competition. No one wants to be the worst rapper. If they do a crazy verse or song, I have to work that much harder the next time around. I would also say Dj Jayhood (one of the fathers of Jersey Club music) because no matter what, he is always working on getting what he wants and deserves.”
What do you want people to take away after listening to your music?
“I want people to know that they are not alone and it is okay to feel how they feel. Many men are taught to hide their feelings, which is a strong example of toxic masculinity. It is okay to be happy, sad, or mad. It is not okay to hold those feelings in and then explode on someone else. Lastly, I want everyone to know that it is okay to be you. I play sports, play video games, watch anime, and do well with the ladies. Just be yourself. If all people were themselves, it would be easier for everyone to relax. It is okay to be you.”
Tell us about any new music you have coming out? When is it coming out? What is it about?
“My new music will be coming out in the Spring or Summer. I am letting my brothers drop their music first then I will rerelease it. I have a music video dropping on Valentine’s day that features my brothers for my song Baecation.”
Stream TyLoTheGentleman’s music on Spotify here.
Follow TyLoTheGentleman on Instagram here.
