Introducing T Marte: A New Voice in Music with “Block Party”

[Urban$ound va]

Asheboro, North Carolina, is known for its deep-rooted musical heritage and its knack for producing remarkable talent. From the soulful melodies of Nina Simone to the lyrical prowess of J. Cole, North Carolina has long been a wellspring of influential artists. At just 26, Tierrany Marshall-McBride, who performs under the moniker T Marte, is emerging as a fresh voice from this storied lineage. Now based in the vibrant DMV area, T Marte is poised to make her mark with her debut single, "Block Party," dropping on September 21, 2024. This single is not just a track but a heartfelt ode to coming together after a period of separation—a sentiment deeply personal and universally relatable.

"Block Party" emerges from a time of profound global disruption, with the COVID-19 pandemic having impacted personal connections and family gatherings worldwide. T Marte’s new single is a celebration of reconnection and community, reflecting her own experiences and the lessons learned through challenging times. The song captures the joy of family reunions and neighborhood festivities, bringing to life the energy and togetherness that have been sorely missed. With "Block Party," T Marte channels her own journey of reconciling past and present into a vibrant musical experience that promises to resonate deeply with listeners.

Urban$ound: Can you share how growing up in Asheboro, North Carolina influenced your music career?

T Marte: Growing up in Asheboro had a huge impact on my music. The state’s rich musical heritage exposed me to legendary artists like Nina Simone and J. Cole, who shaped my understanding of music and storytelling. The competitive nature of North Carolina, whether in basketball or music, instilled a strong work ethic in me. It made me strive for excellence and helped me develop my own unique sound.

Urban$ound: What motivated you to start working on music, and when did you first realize it was your passion?

T Marte: I’ve always been a writer, and combining that with rhythm was a natural progression for me. My wife’s passion for music also motivated me to dive deeper into making my own tracks. I realized music was my passion when I started seeing how much joy and expression it brought me and how it became a way to channel my experiences and emotions.

Urban$ound: How did your move to the DMV area impact your musical journey and opportunities?

T Marte: Moving to the DMV area was a game-changer for me. The culture here is incredibly rich and supportive of black excellence and musical creativity. It pushed me to be more consistent and confident in my craft. The vibrant music scene also opened doors to new opportunities and collaborations that have been crucial for my growth.

Urban$ound: Who were your early musical influences, and how did they shape your style?

T Marte: Early on, I was influenced by artists like TLC, MC Lyte, and Lauryn Hill. They showed me the power of female voices in rap and their ability to convey strong messages. Their work encouraged me to embrace my own voice and explore how I could blend different genres and styles to create something unique.

Urban$ound: Can you describe any significant milestones or turning points in your music career so far?

T Marte: One major milestone was landing my distribution deal. It was a huge moment because it meant my music was getting heard beyond my immediate circle. It validated my efforts and opened up new avenues for sharing my work with a broader audience.

Urban$ound: How do you balance your love for basketball with your music career?

T Marte: Basketball has always been a passion of mine, and I use it as a way to focus and clear my mind before diving into music. Even though I don’t play as much as I used to, I still use it as a mental reset, especially before working on new tracks or practicing.

Urban$ound: What role has your family played in supporting your music career?

T Marte: My family has been my rock. They’ve supported me through thick and thin, providing honest feedback and encouragement. Their belief in me has been a driving force, and their input helps me refine my music and stay grounded.

Urban$ound: Can you tell us about a moment when you felt your music truly connected with an audience?

T Marte: The first time my music was shared beyond my family and friends was incredibly rewarding. Seeing people respond to my lyrics and connect with the message was a powerful moment. It made me realize that my music could resonate with others and that I was on the right path.

Urban$ound: How has your personal experience and background influenced the themes and messages in your music?

T Marte: My background deeply influences my music. From growing up in North Carolina to moving to the DMV area, my experiences shape the stories and themes I explore. “Block Party,” for instance, reflects my journey through the pandemic and my desire to reconnect with family and community.

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 balancing my Navy career with my music. Finding time to work with my producer and manage everything while maintaining professionalism has been tough. However, it’s taught me to be disciplined and efficient with my time, ensuring I can give my best to both worlds.

As T Marte prepares to release “Block Party,” she’s not just sharing a song; she’s inviting listeners into a celebration of togetherness and resilience. With her distinct voice and heartfelt message, T Marte is set to make a significant impact in the music world.

Stay updated on T Marte’s journey and upcoming releases by following her on Instagram, YouTube, X, and TikTok. For inquiries, reach out to her at [e-mail].