T-Money, was one of the leading pioneers in the rap industry with the group “Original Concept.” He was a vital player in the evolution of hip hop as one of the original innovators of the sound and the scene, extending into the modern rap genre. T-Money was a host of “Yo! MTV Raps” with Doctor Dré and Ed Lover, the tv show that did more than any other to make rap music and hip-hop culture a global phenomena.
T-Money was born and raised in Westbury, New York. The name “T-Money” was derived from his mantra, “I’m so money,” with “money” being a euphemism for success, lavishness, and fame. In the early part of his career, he dee-jayed at parties and clubs, with spinning and freestyle being a signature of the scene. Although the sound of hip hop has changed drastically over the years, the element of spinning, freestyle, storytelling, and dance remain a key component in the theme of hip hop today, lending credit to T-Money as one of the originators of the sound who paved the way for modern hip hop in the mainstream.
