i-D Meets: Teezo Touchdown

Summary

Teezo Touchdown reflects on his journey from Beaumont, Texas, to becoming a rising star in music. From a memorable middle school performance gone wrong to his evolution as an artist, Teezo shares his passion for free expression, creativity, and performance. He touches on the influence of MySpace, his love for fashion, and the challenges of balancing regular jobs with his artistic pursuits. Teezo also discusses the importance of staying authentic and memorable in his music, embracing individuality, and breaking free from societal expectations. His story is one of perseverance, personal growth, and self-expression.

Takeaways

• 😀 Teezo Touchdown reflects on his early struggles with fashion, including being picked on for wearing skinny jeans, and his journey to finding his own style.
• 😀 The name 'Teezo Touchdown' originated from a combination of personal interests and an admiration for the confidence of artists like Little B and football players creating highlight tapes.
• 😀 Teezo's first public performance in eighth grade didn’t go as planned, as he fell while trying to throw money into the crowd, leading to a memorable mishap that made the audience react wildly.
• 😀 His upbringing in Beaumont, Texas, exposed him to a unique mix of regional influences, including local rap culture and Myspace-era fashion trends, which helped shape his identity.
• 😀 Teezo emphasizes the importance of authenticity in his performances and believes in giving every audience the same high-energy experience, no matter the size of the crowd.
• 😀 He credits the internet and Myspace for connecting his small hometown with broader global trends, from music to fashion, and views this as an early form of marketing.
• 😀 Teezo shares his connection to Marc Jacobs, who helped him secure his first passport through a collaboration, marking a significant milestone in his career.
• 😀 His diverse work experience, from janitor to retail, helped Teezo appreciate his creative freedom, as he strives to never go back to a regular job or conform to societal expectations.
• 😀 Teezo is passionate about the precision of his music, ensuring that every line in his songs has purpose and is not filler, reflecting his dedication to his craft.
• 😀 Teezo also discusses his love for fashion, mentioning how his personal style is often influenced by the practical necessity of adjusting his wardrobe for his iconic nails, which he customizes to suit his look.

Q & A

How did Teezo Touchdown first get involved in performing?

Teezo's first experience with performing came during a middle school talent show at Martin Luther King Middle School in Beaumont, Texas. Although his performance didn't go as planned, with a mishap involving throwing money into the crowd, it marked the beginning of his passion for the stage.

What inspired Teezo Touchdown's stage name?

Teezo’s stage name, 'Teezo Touchdown,' came from his desire to have a strong and memorable name. He originally considered names like 'Rico Suave' but wanted something that resonated with both his musical journey and the athletic journey of football players. He chose 'Touchdown' to reflect his aspirations to reach the next level in his career.

What was Teezo's early music scene like in his hometown?

In Beaumont, Teezo was influenced by the internet culture and hip-hop, particularly through platforms like Myspace. He and his friends were heavily involved in the trends of artists like Lil Boosie and Soulja Boy, using Myspace for self-promotion, personal branding, and discovering new music.

What impact did Myspace have on Teezo's artistic development?

Myspace played a crucial role in Teezo's early development as an artist. It allowed him to discover new music, promote his own work, and understand the basics of self-promotion and marketing. It also helped him learn about building a unique aesthetic that continues to influence his style today.

How does Teezo Touchdown approach live performances?

Teezo views live performances as opportunities for discovery, both for himself and his audience. He strives to give every show a unique experience, ensuring that each performance is memorable and leaves the audience wanting to come back for more.

What advice did Bun B give Teezo about performing?

Bun B advised Teezo to give the same level of performance, no matter the size of the audience. Whether performing for 100, 500, or 20,000 people, Teezo is committed to delivering the same quality of show every time.

How does Teezo Touchdown see the role of fashion in his artistry?

Fashion is a key component of Teezo’s self-expression. He carefully curates his wardrobe and even adjusts his clothing and accessories, like nails, for each performance. His attention to detail in his style is an extension of his broader approach to artistic freedom and individuality.

Why does Teezo emphasize the importance of his nails in his fashion?

Teezo places a significant emphasis on his nails as part of his style. He chooses specific nail types for different performances and has even tailored his wardrobe packing to accommodate them. This is indicative of his broader approach to self-expression, where every detail matters.

What does Teezo mean by 'free expression' in his career?

Teezo describes his career as an embodiment of free expression. He feels liberated from the conventional expectations of societal roles, having left behind traditional jobs and the restrictions of formal attire. His focus is on being true to himself and expressing his individuality without concern for what others may think.

What is Teezo's ultimate goal as an artist?

Teezo's ultimate goal is to become the biggest star in the world while remaining accessible to his fans. He wants to be remembered as someone who is both globally recognized and personally reachable, emphasizing the importance of connection over distance.