As the music scene continues to evolve, emerging artists like T Marte are making waves with their unique sounds and personal stories. T Marte, born Tierrany Marshall-McBride, is a 26-year-old artist from Asheboro, North Carolina, now thriving in the DMV area. Her latest single, “Block Party,” is a testament to her resilience and creativity, reflecting a powerful message about reconnecting with family and community in a post-pandemic world. With a blend of nostalgia and contemporary beats, T Marte is poised to capture the hearts of listeners and make her mark on the industry.
Urban$ound had the privilege of sitting down with T Marte to delve into her musical journey, influences, and the inspiration behind “Block Party.” From her early days in North Carolina to her current experiences in the DMV area, T Marte shares insights into how her background and life changes have shaped her music. Here’s a closer look at our conversation with the rising star.
Urban$ound: Growing up in Asheboro, North Carolina, must have been influential. How did your hometown shape your music career?
T Marte: Asheboro had a huge impact on me, especially because North Carolina has such a rich musical heritage. Growing up, I was surrounded by incredible talent and iconic artists like Nina Simone, Ben E. King, and J. Cole. This environment instilled in me a deep appreciation for music and a drive to contribute my own voice to this legacy. The competitive spirit in NC, whether in music or basketball, taught me the value of hard work and perseverance.
Urban$ound: What inspired you to start making music, and when did you realize it was your true passion?
T Marte: I’ve always loved writing, and when I combined that with rhythm and music, it felt like a perfect fit. My wife’s passion for music also played a huge role. Her encouragement pushed me to dive deeper into different styles and genres. I realized music was my passion when I started feeling a strong emotional connection to the beats and lyrics I was creating—it just felt right.
Urban$ound: Moving to the DMV area must have been a significant shift. How did it affect your musical journey and opportunities?
T Marte: The DMV area has been incredible for my growth. The culture here is vibrant, with a strong emphasis on black excellence and musical innovation. It gave me the confidence to explore new ideas and be more consistent in my writing. The diverse musical environment has also opened up more opportunities for me to collaborate and get my music heard by a larger audience.
Urban$ound: Who were your early musical influences, and how have they shaped your style?
T Marte: I grew up listening to a mix of old-school legends like Notorious B.I.G., Eminem, and Nas, along with more recent artists like J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar. From female pioneers like TLC and Lauryn Hill, I learned the importance of strong, impactful lyrics and self-expression. These influences have shaped my style by teaching me how to blend meaningful messages with engaging music.
Urban$ound: Can you share a significant milestone or turning point in your music career?
T Marte: One of the biggest milestones for me was releasing “Block Party.” It was a major breakthrough that helped me reach a wider audience. The song got in front of the right people, which opened doors for me to share more of my music. It was a moment of validation and a stepping stone towards achieving my bigger dreams in the industry.
Urban$ound: Balancing your love for basketball with your music career must be a challenge. How do you manage both?
T Marte: Basketball has always been a huge part of my life. Even though I don’t play as much now, it’s still my go-to for focus and motivation. When I do hit the court, music is always with me. It helps me get in the zone, whether I’m preparing for a game or just working on my skills.
Urban$ound: How has your family supported you in your music career?
T Marte: My family has been my rock. They’ve always believed in me and supported my dreams. Their honesty and constructive feedback have been crucial in helping me refine my music. My wife, in particular, has been an incredible supporter, especially during long nights working on my tracks. Their belief in my vision keeps me motivated.
Urban$ound: Can you describe a moment when you felt your music truly connected with an audience?
T Marte: Landing my distribution deal was a standout moment. It meant that my music was reaching beyond my immediate circle of family and friends. Seeing how people resonated with my work and understood my vision was incredibly fulfilling. It felt like a validation of everything I had worked towards.
Urban$ound: How do your personal experiences and background influence the themes in your music?
T Marte: My music is deeply personal and reflects my experiences and the lessons I’ve learned. Whether it’s the sense of community in “Block Party” or the struggles I’ve faced, everything I write comes from a place of authenticity. I want my music to be a reflection of my life and to connect with others on a genuine level.
Urban$ound: What challenges have you faced in the music industry, and how have you navigated them?
T Marte: One of the biggest challenges has been managing my time between music and other responsibilities, especially with my job and the distance from my producer’s studio. Finding a balance and making the most of our time together has been tough, but it’s all part of the journey. Persistence and adaptability have been key in overcoming these obstacles.
Urban$ound: Finally, what are you most excited about with the release of “Block Party,” and are there any special promotions or events planned?
T Marte: I’m thrilled about sharing “Block Party” with a broader audience. It’s my first professional release, and I’m excited for people to hear it and relate to its message. While there aren’t any special events planned at the moment, I’m looking forward to future opportunities to engage with my fans and bring more of my music to them.
T Marte’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the influence of personal experiences on artistic expression. With “Block Party” setting the stage for her future, it’s clear that T Marte is an artist to watch in the coming years.
For more updates and to follow T Marte’s musical journey, connect with her on Instagram, YouTube, X, and TikTok.