The Race Began in 2000
Rapper Tay-K, born Taymor Travon McIntyre on June 16, 2000, in Long Beach, California, skyrocketed to fame in 2017 with his hit single “The Race.” While his sudden success was rooted in undeniable talent, it was also overshadowed by his legal troubles, making Tay-K a controversial figure in the rap world. This blog post delves into the life of Tay-K, exploring his rise to fame, his music, including popular Tay-K songs, and the criminal activities that led to his incarceration, with a particular focus on his viral track “Tay-K The Race.”
Early Life and Beginnings in Music
Tay-K was born into a troubled environment, with both his parents involved in gang activity. His father was a member of the Baby Insane Crips, a gang affiliated with the Crips in Long Beach, while his mother had connections to other local gangs. When Tay-K was a child, his family moved to Arlington, Texas, where he would eventually grow up. The struggles of his upbringing heavily influenced his life, and this is reflected in his music.
In his teenage years, Tay-K became involved in rap, starting with a group called “Daytona Boyz,” alongside his friends Pimpyz and Santana Sage. The group gained minor local recognition but remained largely underground. However, Tay-K’s individual talent and raw storytelling abilities began to stand out, and soon he was pursuing solo success.
Rise to Fame: “The Race”
Tay-K’s breakout moment came in 2017 with the release of “Tay-K The Race.” This song wasn’t just another track in his discography—it was a chilling and controversial narrative of his real-life experience. Tay-K The Race was released while he was on the run from the police, facing capital murder charges in connection to the robbery and killing of 21-year-old Ethan Walker.
The lyrics of Tay-K The Race describe his time on the run, a harrowing combination of boastful defiance and self-awareness. Lines like “I was tryna beat a case, but I ain’t beat that case, b***h, I did the race” were not only provocative but highlighted the intense reality of his situation. The song’s music video, filmed while Tay-K was still a fugitive, features him holding up wanted posters of himself, further fueling the notoriety surrounding the track.
The song quickly went viral, fueled by social media attention and memes, and eventually climbed the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 44. Tay-K The Race remains one of his most iconic tracks, with millions of streams on platforms like Spotify and YouTube. The song’s viral success and its connection to his criminal case made Tay-K an infamous figure, drawing comparisons to the legendary outlaw figures of hip-hop.
Legal Troubles and Incarceration
Tay-K’s rise to stardom was marred by serious legal issues. In 2016, before his major success, Tay-K was involved in a home invasion robbery in Mansfield, Texas, which led to the death of Ethan Walker. He was placed under house arrest in early 2017, but before his trial, he cut off his ankle monitor and fled, embarking on “the race” that would later inspire his hit song.
During his time as a fugitive, Tay-K was allegedly involved in more violent crimes, including the robbery and murder of 23-year-old Mark Anthony Saldivar in San Antonio, Texas. His run from the law ended in June 2017 when he was captured in Elizabeth, New Jersey, after three months on the run.
Despite the growing success of Tay-K The Race, his legal troubles caught up with him. In 2019, he was found guilty of murder and sentenced to 55 years in prison. Additional charges, including another murder and robbery, could further extend his sentence. While Tay-K’s legal team continues to file appeals, it’s uncertain if he will ever regain his freedom, making his story one of both musical talent and tragic consequences.
Popular Tay-K Songs and Discography
Beyond Tay-K The Race, the rapper released other notable songs that showcase his raw style and street storytelling.
- “Megaman” – Another standout track, “Megaman” showcases Tay-K’s aggressive flow and lyrical focus on street life. Released prior to his breakout hit, the song helped establish his growing reputation in the underground rap scene.
- “Murder She Wrote” – Known for its menacing beat and vivid imagery, “Murder She Wrote” continues Tay-K’s narrative of street violence and criminal activity, adding to the dark persona he had begun to craft.
- “After You” – This song is somewhat more reflective, as Tay-K delves into the hardships of growing up in a tough environment. It’s a departure from the pure aggression of his other hits, giving fans a more personal look at his life.
- “I Love My Choppa” – Another popular track, “I Love My Choppa” sees Tay-K glorifying weapons and the gang lifestyle. While the content is controversial, the track became widely popular among his fanbase for its catchy hook and high-energy beat.
Tay-K has left a considerable impact on the rap scene, despite his short career. His tracks often revolve around themes of street life, violence, and crime, which resonated with many listeners, particularly within the subgenres of trap and gangsta rap.
Legacy and Controversy
While Tay-K The Race helped catapult Tay-K to fame, it also contributed to the controversy surrounding his image. Critics have debated whether his music should be celebrated or condemned, given its close ties to real-life violence. Some argue that his rise exemplifies how the music industry can sensationalize crime, while others believe his story is a reflection of the harsh realities many young black men face in America.
Even behind bars, Tay-K maintains a loyal fanbase. His incarceration has only increased the mystique surrounding him, and some of his supporters advocate for his release, while others remain conflicted about the glorification of his criminal behavior.
Conclusion
Tay-K’s life is a tale of immense talent overshadowed by poor choices and violent crime. His music, particularly Tay-K The Race, will likely be remembered as both a cultural touchstone and a cautionary tale about the dangers of glamorizing criminal behavior. While his legal battles continue, Tay-K remains a notable figure in the world of rap, with Tay-K songs continuing to amass millions of streams despite his absence from the music scene. Whether his story ends behind bars or takes a different turn, his influence on modern hip-hop is undeniable.
As the music world watches, Tay-K’s legacy will remain one of the most debated topics in rap, blending fame, infamy, and the all-too-real consequences of life in the streets.