Today we’d like to introduce you to Tajai Ling.
Hi Tajai, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My story starts in Orland Park, Illinois. This is where I grew up prior moving to Nashville. My music journey started off of a snowball mic and making parodies and remixes of popular songs from 2012-2016. I didn’t do any music during my 4 years of college however I rediscovered my love for music in 2020 when I started to release under my name Tajai. I was graced with the opportunity to be a part of Creative Futures Collective x Soho House 2023 Cohort. I was mentored by Ben Hutto at the time who introduced me to the live music scene of Nashville. I then attended my first ever ca.mp3 in April of 2024 where I met Jack Vinoy, Southside Vizzy, Ben Yonts, & Luke Halski who all (including myself) make up the current board for ca.mp3. The environment was perfect to meet other aspiring artists in Nashville who I’ve had lasting friendships to this day and have the opportunity to collaborate with from time to time.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has been bumpy since there isn’t a big highlight on the different genres of music in Nashville outside of country and rock style music. I think booking venues and finding funds has been the hardest part. Along with finding time to make music with such a busy schedule. However when you love what you do you find ways to do it regardless of circumstance.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a writer and artist mainly in the hip hop genre but I have songs that touch every genre. My biggest song at the moment is called “Thesedays”, reflecting on how time moves faster the older you get and that it should not be taken for granted. I’m proud of having the opportunity to have been played on radio especially WNXP 91.1 Cashville Radio. I would say that my music stems from from my internal feelings and the songs people relate to the most have been the songs most personal and dear to me. I pride myself on making songs that can be a voice for voiceless.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Most people don’t know that I’m a big fan of boy bands and always wanted to be in one. I’m part of an artist collective called “The Wholesum”, which consists of myself, Weston Slutz, Dante Williamson, WHOISJORDAN, & TJ!. We also work and collaborate with WithLoveMalcom, Southside Vizzy, & Ben Yonts often. We had a single release in spring 2025 names Exit Away. Which led us to create our first backyard show called “Summers Over” in fall 2025. It was a great DIY experience and the community showed up and showed out to support us.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://iamtajai.weebly.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialtajai/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@tajai.
- Other: https://linktr.ee/tajai
