Alternative Hip Hop from Trust Tate

Trust Tate is a hip hop artist who turns hardship into art, using music as both an escape and a tool for self-expression. Originally hailing from New Jersey and currently based in Minot, North Dakota, he draws inspiration from the likes of A$AP Rocky, Schoolboy Q, Kendrick Lamar, Drake and Mac Miller to forge his own fiercely original sound which serves as a reflection of determination, growth and the pursuit of something greater than the struggles that shaped him.

His journey hasn’t been easy; as a victim of gun violence at just seven months old and growing up in an environment where danger was a constant presence, Trust Tate’s path could have taken many different turns. With a verbally and physically abusive father, an absent mother and a childhood friend who’s been missing for years, the weight of his past could have held him down. Instead, music became his outlet. He recorded his first song in 2008 while in high school in Atlanta, and from that moment, it became clear that music was his purpose and guiding light.

He pursued his passion while studying TV and Film in high school and later earned a psychology degree from Rutgers University in New Jersey. During his time at university, his dedication paid off when he signed to an independent record label, marking the beginning of his professional music career. His ability to mix styles and deliver concsiouc lyricism makes each of his releases a compelling listen, offering a window into his world and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

First sharing his sound in 2021, he dropped his debut single “Facetime” and has since followed up with several impressive full-length records. His latest album, the expansive LP called Don’t Look Down, is the sonic distillation of his attempt to let go of the past and look forward. Lifted from the album, his new single “City Never Sleep” offers the perfect snapshot of the latest chapter in his musical story.

Recorded in his apartment in Minot, the track lays down a gripping slice of alternative hip hop, packed full of impactful beats, slick vocal delivery and layers of enveloping synths. Brought in by spacey vocal samples, hazy instrumental textures, bold bass energy and rattling percussion, Trust Tate’s commanding vocal flows enter to spin powerful storytelling lyrics, recounting moments from his past.

With intricate beat switch ups and an array of zapping synth elements riding the fuzzy bass lines, “City Never Sleep” serves up an engrossing soundscape that’s catchy and fiery from start to finish. Wrapped up in a brisk two minute dose of riveting energy, it’s a killer track that sees Trust Tate put his meaningful lyrical writing, vocal performance flair and immersive arrangement talents on full display. As he continues to impress with his unique and engaging musical output, we can’t wait to see what he’s got lined up for the rest of 2025 and beyond.

Listen to City Never Sleep below

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