Roger Tyler carves his own lane in RVA Hip-Hop scene
Roger Tyler, the rapper also known as RT, sees no comparison to him in the Richmond Hip-Hop scene. Tyler, who released his album “TIME (This Is My Everyday)” this year, is gearing up for a big year in 2017.
“I’m not with a lot what’s out right now, the mumble rap. I cam
e from the era of Dipset and JAY Z. Soul samples,” Tyler said. “I carry that myself because my soul is in my music. My fans recognize the soul. I’m real, honest and truthful ― what people don’t really hear nowadays.”
In light of recent events of social injustice and police violence, Tyler said he plans to make his mark beyond the booth.
“I’m tired of people on social media simply talking about change,” Tyler said. “The best way we can change is by changing the community.”
Tyler, who is 31, said he has seen a lot throughout his life and plans to put his experience to good use. With community projects like a mentorship program, he vows to inspire a new generation of young leaders in the city in addition to making great music.
Beginning to rap at the age of 14, Tyler said he was inspired the first time he heard JAY Z’s 1999 album, “Vol. 3… Life and Times of S. Carter.” After a few years in the battle rap scene, Tyler moved to Richmond.
Since then, he’s released a slew of albums and become an active fixture in the Richmond music scene. Despite a lack of mainstream music attention on Richmond, the rapper said he sees big things to come in the near future.
“We have so many people in this city that’s doing big things but no one’s connected,” Tyler said.
Praising Virginia artists like Nickelus F, DRAM and Skillz, Tyler said he plans to do the same with his career. Describing himself as humble and genuine, the rapper said he views his style as a direct culmination of his life experiences.
Tyler said growing up without an active father and a struggling mother, he’s always had obstacles to overcome. Experiences like working a dead end job and overcoming depression and an attempted suicide is what makes Tyler’s music so visceral, he said.
“I’ve had the drugs around me. I’ve seen a lot of downfalls with financial issues. I’ve gone through a lot but now I feel like it’s all working,” Tyler said. “I’m at a good place in my life. Since I’ve been involved in the music scene here, it’s been steady growth.”
Due to his involvement with the Cheats Movement podcast, Tyler said he’s grown by encountering other artists.
Led by Marc Cheatham, the podcast is the most active Hip-Hop blog in the city. With a show every other week, the podcast invites local rappers to display their skills and drop new music.
“Me and Cheats have always had a great relationship. That first podcast is where we first clicked. Ever since then, we’ve just been growing. From us having people like Joey Gallo to now Joe Budden soon,” Tyler said.
Being a co-host to the show, Tyler said he has had the opportunity to meet some of his biggest inspirations such as rappers Styles P, AZ and most recently, producer 9th Wonder. As a result, the rapper has said he’s been motivated to widen his fan base.
“You have to be able to connect with the people,” Tyler said.
Along with rapper Repitun, RT will begin the Forever Changes tour very soon. In addition to shows in Tucson, Virginia Beach, Brooklyn and Richmond. While preparing his new album for next year, the rapper has also began working on improving his skills as an actor.
“Acting is addictive. Changing characters,” Tyler said. “Becoming a solid actor is something I strive for. I would love to get involved with Marvel one day.”
All of RT’s music, including TIME, can be found at his website, rogeRTyler.com
STAFF WRITER
Muktaru Jalloh
Muktaru is a graduate student working on a Master’s of Teaching after earning an undergraduate degree in English and Political Science. In addition to writing for the CT, he also co-founds his own music and arts site, STROKES N RHYMES. Topic areas Muktaru enjoys covering include music, sports and pop culture.
jallohmm@commonwealthtimes.org
