Nashville’s Tay Keith: Redefining Music Across Genres and Inspiring the Next Generation

Nashville: A Hub of Creative Innovation with Tay Keith

In the vibrant city of Nashville, where country music reigns supreme, a breath of fresh air is coming from an unexpected source—hip-hop producer Tay Keith. This talented Memphis native isn’t just making waves in the music industry; he’s redefining what it means to bridge the gap between genres. With accolades like a Grammy nomination and being named a three-time BMI Producer of the Year, Tay Keith is proving that with drive and creativity, you can reshape the landscape of music.

A Humble Beginning

Tay’s journey into music started back in middle school, where he was self-taught in rapping, producing, and DJing. He grew up in a family that encouraged creativity. In a recent interview, Tay recalled, “My mom was married and her husband at the time was DJing. That’s what exposed me to it.” He fondly remembers weekends spent at his dad’s house, recording music with his brothers and neighbors, saying “I said, ‘One day I’m going to get me a mic and do this shit.’ And that’s what I did.”

Local Success to Global Fame

Starting out in Memphis, Tay Keith teamed up with local stars like Yo Gotti and Moneybagg Yo, creating hits that made a name for himself in the area. However, it wasn’t until he began working with BlocBoy JB that his career truly took off. The duo collaborated on tracks such as “Look Alive”, featuring global superstar Drake, which skyrocketed Tay to international fame. He reminisced, “[BlocBoy JB] started paying me like $15 or $20 for beats and to record him when we were in high school.”

With every new collaboration, Tay cemented himself more firmly in the industry. The track “SICKO MODE” by Travis Scott, which Tay produced, earned him his first Grammy nomination while he was still finishing college. It was a remarkable feat, especially as he balanced studying at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) during this whirlwind of success.

A New Chapter in Nashville

Tay Keith graduated in 2018 as the first in his family to earn a college degree. He proudly took to the stage at his graduation, adorned with a cap that celebrated his impressive track record of hits even at such a young age. He shared, “I had to have something to prove as a first-generation grad… My graduation from college was special for them.”

Fast-forward to today, and Tay’s influence is firmly rooted in the Nashville music scene. He has produced chart-topping tracks for Drake, Beyoncé, and more, melding the worlds of hip-hop and country music. With his state-of-the-art studio called Drumatized, Tay has created a space where genres collide and new ideas thrive. “We’re trying to bring our world here, and it’s been a challenge, but we’ve been staying consistent and networking,” he noted.

Fostering Creativity and Inclusivity

The Drumatized studio is not just about recording hits; it’s about community. Through monthly music camps that blend hip-hop and country, Tay is paving the way for innovation in Nashville. By partnering with companies like Apple Music and Prescription Songs, these camps encourage collaboration and new styles to emerge.

Tay believes in giving back and empowering the next generation. His role as an honorary professor at MTSU allows him to mentor young artists and nurture talent in the industry. He continues to passionately guide newcomer artists like Sexyy Red, helping her rise to fame as an executive producer on her EP In Sexyy We Trust.

Looking Ahead

As Tay Keith’s career continues to flourish, he has set his sights on producing a No. 1 country hit. Working with country artists like Kane Brown and Reyna Roberts, he is eager to explore new creative avenues. He is excited about the challenge, saying “I’ve been working with a lot of different country artists… It’s a journey I’m looking forward to.”

Conclusion

Tay Keith represents a new beacon of hope and creativity in Nashville’s music scene. His journey from a small-town boy in Memphis to a global music producer exemplifies persistence, innovation, and the drive to achieve. By embracing a blend of cultures and musical styles, Tay is not only shaping his own future but also the future of music as a whole. As he continues to push boundaries, we can’t wait to see where his incredible journey takes him next!