College Kidd TYE

Who are you? Tell us where you from. 

I’m College Kidd TYE, an aspiring artist from Cincinnati, OH. I am an artist that details the

success and challenges of being a young educated successful black man trying to succeed

while simultaneously fighting the opposition of systemic racism, crooked society, and sadly other

members of the black community.

How did you get into the music scene?

I’ve been doing music since I was in the first grade. It started with electric guitar, and wanting to

be a rockstar lead guitar player. Then I got into percussion in an elementary school band that

took me all the way into being a Grand Champion Percussionist in High School. I was also good.

at freestyling on the back of the bus during middle school and rapping for school projects. I

didn’t get into the rap scene until my sophomore year of college at the University of Cincinnati.

Would you make this a career?

I would love to make this a career but not in the regards that all my money and stability is built

on the music industry. I feel like people lose sight of the art, and development of their craft to

achieve more money. So that is why I have a separate career, and creation of passive wealth to

be able to fuel my career making music once I decide to fully immerse myself. 

What made you take it seriously?

What made me take music seriously was that it was the most raw and therapeutic form of

therapy while I felt I was selling my life short for a nice career stuck in a cubicle. Especially after

I released my first song “Not Everyone Lives”, and I got a cascade of support, and love from my

fellow students at the University of Cincinnati who identified with my story.

If I could change one thing I think I’d change the stereotype of artists or rappers in general not

being intelligent, or competent and how we look at self-development and education.

How is the music scene in your city? Anything different compared to other places you’ve been or seen?

The music scene in Cincinnati is rich. There are so many different flavors of music, stories,

perspectives, and talents in Cincinnati. I believe we are the next city to blow similar to the

Memphis’s, Chicago’s, and other cities that created a wave. Sadly not different from most cities

that could blow even faster with unified efforts, and more genuine love for fellow artists.

Who is your top artist right now?

I don’t really have a top artist because I love artists on the rise right before they reach stardom,

because the art is always the rawest, and the artists are the most hungry to make it. Some of

my favorites are Tupac, Roddy Ricch, Rod Wave, Calboy, T-Pain, Silk, Boyz II Men, and Smino

Has music changed your life? If so, how?

Music has helped me create a living memoir for when I’m no longer here. It also has created a

language that helps me connect with others, and some past moments in my life. I feel that

creating art from my life, helps show my trials, tribulations, and triumphs that I’ve encountered.

showing my growth through adversity.

What do you do outside of the music scene? 

What would you tell your younger self? 

I would tell my younger self, that don’t try to fit in when you were always made to stick out. Also

to always stick up for yourself, and the challenges your going through will prepare you for the

life to come. Also stay motivated, but don’t overwork yourself, even Rome wasn’t built in a day.

Something people don’t know about you. 

Some people don’t know that I was a D.A.R.E essay winner in elementary school, or that I love reading.

Dropping anything soon? Any surprises?

Currently I’m going be dropping a music video called Find Me produced by my brother before

the music Kenny Kalentega, and filmed by my day one Bakardi Lani. Also, I have my first EP

called “Love 1001” Coming Soon this year.

There you have it! Thanks for taking the time to tell us your story. Everyone check out Tye's Instagram below.