Lil Tjay

Tione Jayden Merritt (born April 30, 2001), known professionally as Lil Tjay, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter from the Bronx, New York City. He is known for blending melodic rap with drill, hip hop, and R&B influences.

Early life

Lil Tjay was born and raised in Fordham, Bronx, New York City. He grew up in a single-parent household and faced challenges during his upbringing, including legal issues at a young age. While in juvenile detention, he began writing rap lyrics that later shaped his career.

Career

Lil Tjay began releasing music on SoundCloud in 2017. His breakout came with the single Resume, followed by Brothers, which gained viral success and led to a record deal with Columbia Records. He rose to mainstream recognition through collaborations and charting singles.

Breakthrough

His collaboration with Polo G on Pop Out introduced him to the Billboard Hot 100 audience. His debut album True 2 Myself (2019) peaked in the Top 5 of the Billboard 200.

Musical style

Lil Tjay is known for melodic rap delivery, emotional storytelling, and frequent use of Auto-Tune. His music often explores themes of struggle, success, street life, and personal growth.

Discography

• True 2 Myself (2019)
• Destined 2 Win (2021)
• 222 (2023)
• They Just Ain't You (2026)

Legal issues

Lil Tjay has faced multiple legal challenges, including arrests related to weapons possession. He was also involved in a high-profile shooting incident in 2022 in New Jersey, where he was critically injured but later recovered.

Associated acts

• Polo G
• Fivio Foreign
• Ice Spice
• 6lack
• YoungBoy Never Broke Again