Teztifye

His music began with a love of words.

In seventh grade, Edgar Allan Poe's The Raven introduced him to the power of poetry. Its rhythm, imagery, and storytelling sparked a fascination with language that would eventually find its way into hip-hop.

Ludacris's Southern Hospitality was an early musical turning point, introducing him to the possibilities of distinctive flows and fearless creativity. By 2008, he was recording music with friends, beginning a journey that would include collaborations with Bryson the Alien, a childhood friend he had known since the age of twelve.

As his artistry developed, Kendrick Lamar's Rigamortus challenged his understanding of lyrical technique, while Joyner Lucas and P.M. Dawn influenced his appreciation for storytelling and the emotional possibilities of hip-hop.

Recording under the name Tezmanian, he continued developing his sound through independent releases, collaborations, and his 2023 project, TEZMANIA 64.

In November 2023, life took an unexpected turn with the passing of his mother. A fiercely independent, outspoken woman who raised him alone, she was a force of nature who never hesitated to speak her mind. Her influence shaped his strength, character, and sense of responsibility.

Even hours after learning of her passing, he returned to work, carrying the responsibilities of providing for his family while privately navigating an unimaginable loss.

Music took a temporary back seat, but his passion never disappeared.

Through years of exchanging poetry and sharing a love of music, his wife recognized a gift worth revisiting. Her encouragement reignited his creative spirit, and together they co-wrote every song on his upcoming EP.

The project explores grief, remembrance, family, and the lasting impact of losing his mother.

Now performing as Teztifye, his new name reflects his purpose: to testify to the experiences that shaped him, honor his family, and give a voice to stories that might otherwise go unheard.