ThankYouSmitt’s Ascent: From Court to Studio, A Star Rising in Hip-Hop

ThankYouSmitt, born Tee Smith in Asbury Park and raised in Jersey City, is blending determination and talent as he transitions from standout student-athlete to promising hip-hop artist. His journey reflects the vibrant narrative of his music, emerging from the basketball courts of New Jersey to the music scene in Los Angeles.

Smitt’s debut album, Call God, introduced fans to an introspective artist unafraid to explore themes of faith and personal growth. The project offered a deeply personal look into his life, delivered with a distinct East Coast flair and lyrical finesse. Following up with ThankYou Day, a five-track EP released on Thanksgiving, Smitt shifts gears, showing his versatility with soulful samples and head-nodding beats. Tracks like “Racks Up” and “Feel Good Again” pulsate with energy, and “Stargaze” and “Bristol” balance the EP with introspection and depth.

The journey to this moment has been anything but conventional. Smitt’s athletics skills earned him over 30 basketball scholarship offers before committing to Duquesne University. There, he juggled a marketing degree while earning accolades like the Atlantic 10 Sixth Man of the Year award. Yet, it was in Pittsburgh’s ID Labs that Smitt discovered a passion for music that would rival his love for basketball.

After completing a postgraduate degree at the University of Connecticut Smitt made the bold move to pivot into music and entertainment full-time. This decision proved fruitful, as he’s since become a fixture in high-profile productions. From a starring role in Adam Sandler’s Hustle to appearances in Hennessy x NBA and Coca-Cola commercials, Smitt’s charisma and adaptability are undeniable.

What makes ThankYouSmitt particularly compelling is his authenticity. His music is grounded in lived experience, offering fans not just polished tracks but a genuine connection to the man behind the microphone. In an era where many artists chase trends, Smitt’s focus on storytelling and craft feels refreshing.

With plans for music videos to complement both Call God and ThankYou Day, and new singles on the horizon, ThankYouSmitt is solidifying himself as a rising force in contemporary hip-hop. His ability to merge the discipline and work ethic honed on the basketball court with the creativity and passion required in the studio is a rare combination—and one that is paying off in spades.

As ThankYouSmitt continues to evolve, one thing is clear: he’s not just playing the game—he’s redefining it. Fans and newcomers alike should keep their eyes on this rising star because his story, much like his music, is far from over.