In an era where music serves as both a refuge and a rallying cry, artists like T Marte are redefining the landscape with their unique perspectives and heartfelt messages. Tierrany Marshall-McBride, known professionally as T Marte, hails from Asheboro, North Carolina, a town known for its deep musical roots and competitive spirit. At 26, T Marte has relocated to the DMV area, where she’s been making waves with her fresh sound and engaging storytelling. Her debut single, “Block Party,” is a reflection of her journey through the challenges of the pandemic and her celebration of family and community. This song not only marks a significant milestone in her career but also embodies her personal experiences and aspirations.
Urban$ound had the chance to sit down with T Marte to dive into the inspiration behind “Block Party,” the creative process, and what’s next for this emerging artist. From her reflections on family gatherings disrupted by COVID-19 to the vibrant energy she’s channeling through her music, T Marte shares how her past and present are intricately woven into her artistic expression.
Urban$ound: What inspired the concept and title of your first single, “Block Party”?
T Marte: The idea for “Block Party” came from a deep desire to reconnect with family after the pandemic. I had planned to visit home in April 2020, but travel restrictions kept me away. By the time I could finally attend a family function this year, it felt like a major celebration. The song is my way of commemorating that reunion and the joy of coming back together.
Urban$ound: How does “Block Party” reflect your personal experiences or current state of mind?
T Marte: “Block Party” represents a mix of nostalgia and anticipation. It’s about the things I’ve missed during the pandemic and my eagerness to return to those large family gatherings. The song captures my motivation to embrace those moments of unity and fun that we were all deprived of.
Urban$ound: Can you describe the creative process you went through while working on “Block Party”?
T Marte: The creative process for “Block Party” evolved quite a bit. It started as a love song, but as I worked on it, I felt it needed a more celebratory vibe. I drew from my experiences at family and neighborhood functions, incorporating elements of those memories into the song. The hook, in particular, was inspired by a casual conversation with my best friend, who mentioned something about being the “white boy invited to the BBQ.” It clicked perfectly and added a playful touch to the track.
Urban$ound: Are there any particular themes or messages you hope listeners will take away from the single?
T Marte: I hope listeners see “Block Party” as a call for reconciliation and togetherness. It’s about setting aside differences and coming together to enjoy each other’s company. The song is meant to be a soundtrack for those moments when family and friends reconnect and celebrate life.
Urban$ound: What makes “Block Party” stand out from other music you’ve created or are planning to release?
T Marte: “Block Party” stands out because it’s not just a vibe; it’s a relatable and energetic anthem that makes you want to dance and celebrate. While my other songs often tell stories or raise awareness, this track is all about having fun and embracing the joy of togetherness. It’s a unique entry in my music catalog and reflects a different side of my artistic expression.
Urban$ound: How did you choose the production style and collaborators for this single?
T Marte: I worked closely with my producer, who presented several tracks. The one that became “Block Party” immediately resonated with me. It had the right energy and feel that matched the vibe I wanted for the song. The production style was crucial in capturing the celebratory essence I aimed for.
Urban$ound: What was the most challenging part of creating “Block Party,” and how did you overcome it?
T Marte: One of the biggest challenges was balancing my professional persona with my music. As a Navy member, I have to maintain a level of professionalism, and finding the right words that connect with my audience while keeping it PG was tricky. It required a lot of thoughtful consideration and creativity to navigate that balance.
Urban$ound: How does the release of “Block Party” fit into your overall music career plans?
T Marte: “Block Party” is a significant step in my music career, but it’s not the entirety of what I want to express. It’s a standout track, but it also serves as a bridge to more varied and in-depth music that I plan to release. It’s an introduction to my sound and an opportunity to connect with listeners on a broader scale.
Urban$ound: What are you most excited about for the release of “Block Party”?
T Marte: I’m most excited about sharing my music with a larger audience and seeing how people relate to it. This is my first professional release, so the excitement is palpable. I’m eager to see how listeners respond to the lyrics and the overall energy of the song.
Urban$ound: Are there any special promotions, events, or visuals planned to accompany the release of “Block Party”?
T Marte: As of now, there aren’t any special events planned, but I’m definitely open to exploring those opportunities as the release progresses. I’ll keep everyone updated on any upcoming promotions or visuals that might accompany the single.
T Marte’s “Block Party” is more than just a song; it’s a celebration of family, unity, and the joy of coming together after a challenging period. With her debut single making a strong impression, T Marte is set to continue making waves in the music industry.
For the latest updates and to follow T Marte’s journey, check out her Instagram, YouTube, X, and TikTok. For inquiries, reach out to her at [email protected].
