The Heat would like to welcome a very special correspondent to the staff – a young lady whose first submission is about the rapper Tyga.
Diatrice Braggs is only 13 years old, but she is already embarking upon a very productive journalism career. We are so impressed with Miss Braggs and we believe you will be also. Please welcome her by leaving a comment at the end of the article!
MUSIC MATTERS: Tyga
By: Diatrice Braggs
On November 19, 1989, a beautiful baby boy named Michael Stevenson was born. Michael Stevenson is better known by his stage name, “Tyga”.
The name “Tiger” was given to him by his mother, because he was mixed and slightly resembled Tiger Woods. He later changed the spelling to form the acronym T.Y.G.A., meaning Thank. You. God. Always.
Tyga grew up in the city of Compton, California. He was an only child who was raised by his mother, Pasionaye Nguyen. His father, who was briefly in his life, is unknown. This part Vietnamese and Jamaican artist did not have an easy childhood. His father was abusive and Tyga recalled being hit and beaten by his father while his mother, Pasionaye, did nothing.
In 2007, his dreams of becoming a rapper took a turn for the better. He ran into Travie Mccoy, member of Gym Class Heroes. They went from discussing shoes to talking about rapping. Tyga took it upon himself to give Travie his “little” mix tape as Tyga once put in an interview. One thing lead to another, and he was soon hanging with his “cousin” Travie along with Fall Out Boy member, Pete Wentz.
Tyga was eventually signed, but he had to part ways because he was looking for something more. He later signed with Warner Bros. but left as well, because he didn’t like the way things were being done.
Soon after, he met Lil Wayne while performing at the VMAs in 2007. He talked to Lil Wayne about how big of a fan he was, and how he was a rapper too. They exchanged information, and Tyga began sending Lil Wayne songs. Out of interest, Wayne decided to fly Tyga out to record some music.
In 2009, Tyga made one of the biggest decisions of his life, and signed to Young Money. Since then, he has made amazing hits such as “Far Away” and “Rack City.” He also received nominations such as a Grammy and a BET Award nomination for the song “Deuces” featuring Chris Brown and Kevin McCall.
I chose to highlight Tyga this month, because he is such an amazing and inspirational artist. I love how his lyrics constantly mirror my problems or my exact thoughts at the time. I also love the way he raps, and how his rhymes flow together. He has a certain rapping pattern that is very relaxing. He doesn’t scream and yell when he raps like some artists do. My favorite piece of music by him would be his mix tape called “The Potential”. This would have to be my favorite because it features the song entitled “Dad’s Letter.” In “Dad’s Letter” Tyga talks about his life and what it would be like if he sent a letter to his father. It’s songs like “Dad’s Letter” and “Far Away”, which truly make him such an amazing artist, along with his personality.
Before you decide to judge him by his looks, the way he spells his name, or even his choice to use profanity, take the time to get to know the man behind the tattoos.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Diatrice Braggs is a positive example of what’s really good with our youth. She is a vibrant young lady who has a future that’s so bright, words cannot explain. We are proud of her and hope to see much, much more of her work!
