Meet YTBZai, one of the most compelling new voices out of Stockton, California. Born Xzaiver Hardiman, this rising artist is turning personal pain, street wisdom, and musical heritage into a distinct sound he calls Trap Art — a gritty blend of real-life storytelling, soul, and raw West Coast energy.
Music runs deep in YTBZai’s blood. Coming from a family full of musicians, stepping into the booth was more of a calling than a choice. He turned that legacy into momentum and hasn’t looked back since. With standout tracks that speak directly to the struggles and triumphs of everyday life, he’s been steadily building buzz. In fact, he’s currently ranked third in his region for the Rolling Stone contest, and one of his songs is set to appear on the Mac Dre documentary coming to Netflix — a major co-sign for an artist rooted in Northern California’s sonic legacy.
His lyrical approach is real and relatable. Whether it’s the weight of the trenches or lessons learned from the hustle, YTBZai speaks the truth for those who’ve lived it or know someone who has. He’s not afraid to get vulnerable while keeping his delivery raw, honest, and undeniably street. His upcoming tape, “Zai Griffey Jr. Hardball: GBaby Edition”, is set to elevate that sound even further.
Despite being currently independent, YTBZai is no stranger to teamwork. From sessions with trusted producers to strategic input from his manager, he knows the value of collaboration — but only when the vibe is right. Not every opportunity makes the cut, and he moves with intention.
Songs like “Awhile Longer” and “Trenches” are already slated for international radio play, marking a major milestone in a career still on the rise. Inspired by artists like Bankroll Fresh, MO3, JBlacc, Young JR, and Young Thug, he stays motivated by the grind, the music, and the mission to make his voice heard worldwide.
Social media plays a key role in his strategy, especially on Instagram, where his stories and reels keep fans tapped into his process and personality. He engages with his audience consistently, not just to promote — but to build.
With industry interest heating up, YTBZai is open to a distribution deal and ready to scale his reach. His journey is just getting started, but the message is clear — this is more than music, it’s a movement.
Stream his music: Watch Here
Follow on Instagram: @tmf_ytbzai5