Lil Tjay, New York Artist, Age, Real Name, Height & Bio

Artist Age: 23 (April 30, 2001)
Stage name: Lil Tjay
Birth name: Tione Jayden Merritt
Height: 5′10″ (178 cm)
Place of birth: Bronx, New York, U.S.
Instagram: @liltjay

Bronx Beginnings

Lil Tjay was born and raised in the Bronx, a borough known for its legacy in hip-hop and its harsh realities. Growing up, he experienced frequent fights, police presence, and the absence of structure. Raised by a single mother, he often got into trouble and was sent to a youth detention center at the age of 15.

During that time behind bars, he began writing music. The isolation gave him space to reflect, and writing became his way of processing emotion. What started as an outlet soon became his passion and purpose.

Lil Tjay Age 17–18: Breakout From SoundCloud

In 2017, Lil Tjay began uploading his songs to SoundCloud. At just age 17, he released “Resume” and “Brothers,” two tracks that quickly gained attention online. His blend of melodic hooks and real-life pain connected deeply with younger listeners.

Within months, he was being contacted by record labels. His early success was unusual because it came so quickly and without a team or major co-sign. His voice and style did the heavy lifting.

Lil Tjay Age 19–20: From Mixtapes to Albums

By 18, Lil Tjay signed a record deal with Columbia Records and landed a major feature on Polo G’s hit “Pop Out.” His verse helped catapult the song onto Billboard charts and set the stage for his solo debut.

Later that year, he released F.N, a breakout single that would become a street anthem and charting hit. His debut album True 2 Myself followed in 2019 and debuted in the top 5 on the Billboard 200. It was a major milestone that confirmed his place in the next wave of rap stars.

Building a Strong Identity

Between ages 19 and 20, Lil Tjay released several projects and singles that expanded his sound. He was more than just a melodic rapper—he was an artist with storytelling ability, emotional transparency, and a voice that resonated with a wide audience.

In 2020, he dropped the State of Emergency EP, showcasing collaborations with other New York drill rappers. He was evolving, staying current, and showing versatility while staying true to his melodic roots.

Destined 2 Win and Billboard Success

At age 21, Lil Tjay released Destined 2 Win, his second studio album. The album featured the single “Calling My Phone” with 6lack, which peaked in the top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. It became one of his most commercially successful tracks to date.

This phase of his career showed stronger songwriting, better production, and a more confident presence. He was still just a few years into the industry, but his music carried the weight of someone who had lived through decades of struggle and reflection.

Surviving a Near-Fatal Shooting

In June 2022, shortly after his 21st birthday, Lil Tjay was shot multiple times during an attempted robbery in New Jersey. He underwent emergency surgery and was in critical condition for days. The news rocked the hip-hop world and served as a stark reminder of how fragile life can be for young rappers.

After months of recovery, he returned with the track “Beat the Odds,” detailing his survival and mental state post-shooting. The song reflected raw emotion and gratitude for life, and it was one of his most powerful releases yet.

Turning the Page at 23

Now at 23 years old, Lil Tjay is entering a new chapter in both life and music. In 2023, he released his third studio album 222, a project that reflected maturity, emotional growth, and continued experimentation. Themes of healing, purpose, and resilience were woven throughout the album.

He’s also showing more care with his public presence. Whether it’s interviews, performances, or social media, there’s a clearer sense of direction and thoughtfulness in how he carries himself.

Sound, Style, and Impact

Lil Tjay helped pioneer the melodic drill/R&B-rap crossover sound that dominates playlists today. His voice can flip between singing and rapping seamlessly, often making heartbreak sound like anthems and pain feel poetic.

He also opened the door for many New York rappers to embrace vulnerability in their music. In a genre often defined by bravado, he leaned into softness, emotion, and reflection—without ever losing his street credibility.

Career Timeline by Lil Tjay Age

Final Thoughts on Lil Tjay Age and Growth

So how old is Lil Tjay? He’s 23 (April 30, 2001), and those years have been filled with pain, growth, and powerful music. From the Bronx streets to Billboard charts, his journey is proof that talent, vulnerability, and persistence can carve out a lasting space in music.

Lil Tjay age 23 represents both survival and evolution. And with everything he’s already overcome, his future still holds endless potential.

Explore more artists from the United States: https://croxxings.com/bios/artists/american-artists/