I decided to start a new feature on the site called "Tidal Taught Me". Tidal has an algorithm based on the things you search for, and listen to, that takes that data and creates a personalized mix for you. I'm sure other streaming platforms do the same, but I only pay for Tidal. I've been introduced to quite a few artists I'm sure I wouldn't have been exposed to otherwise. I know I'm late to some of these artists and songs, but the goal is to bring awareness to those who have not yet been exposed to these artists. Let me know what you think!
First up is TeaMarr who emerged on the scene in 2017. Boston born, (although her accent says something different), and LA-based, TeaMarr is the flagship artist on Issa Rae's "Raedio" record label which is a partnership with Atlantic Records. According to her website, TeaMarr counts The Notorious B.I.G. and Amy Winehouse as her biggest influences, and if you've ever listened to any of her music, it's quite understandable why. While I've never heard Biggie and Amy Winehouse mentioned in the same breath, the two of them could tell a story with a level of rawness, and grittiness that TeaMarr has completely embodied.
The prime example is the song "One Job" released in 2018, which is the first I've ever heard of TeaMarr. Tidal snuck this song into one of My Mixes and I swear I listen to it daily. The aggressive song could be said to be sung from the perspective of a woman as if she was a man. The song begins "Dry your eyes, the fuck you cryin' for? Where's your spine? You ain't got that no more. The dick was fire, that's what I signed up for, but after all this time you're so damn insecure. You only had One Job nigga, the fuck?!?!?" I'm pretty sure many people have issues with her language and delivery but would be ok with the same lyrics/sentiments coming from a man. I'm glad that that double standard is no longer acknowledged and because of that, we are blessed with an artist like TeaMarr who freely expresses herself in such an honest and melodic way. She recently released a drum-heavy, almost boom-bap sounding single; "Cool Enough" which is also in heavy rotation for me. She doesn't stray too far from the artist I fell in love with, giving us lyrics like " Handle biz like it's jizz, wipe it clean". From what I can find, she's only had one full-length project, titled "Thanks for the Chapstick" which was released in 2017 and a few singles that she's dropped here and there. I look forward to hearing more from TeaMarr as the First Lady of Raedio. Not sure if her forthcoming project would be labeled a "debut", but whatever it is, I can't wait, because I'm sure Issa Rae/Raedio will remain an advocate for her to remain true to her sound and artistry, I just hope Atlantic Records doesn't ruin that for us. Were you a follower of TeaMarr prior to this post? What are your favorite TeaMarr tracks?