Tay-K: Running the Race

Didn’t Beat the Case, Do the Race

Taymor McIntyre, a young rapper out of Texas, (unfortunately) lived the life that he raps about in his music. After a home invasion in 2016, young Tay-K went on the run — evading a capital murder charge. This is partially because of the courts intent on trying him as an adult. The way the justice system holds black children to a different standard is so obvious, but that’s a quarrel for a different time.

After being tracked down in New Jersey and a lengthy legal process, he was sentenced to 55 years in prison for the murder charge, 30 years in prison for one of the counts of aggravated robbery, and two 13-year prison sentences for the remaining two counts of aggravated robbery (Fort Worth Star Telegram).

Now introducing, perhaps, one of the most gangster songs of all time — “The Race”. So much so, that the song was used in court as a source of evidence to indict the rapper. The song was created while on the run from law enforcement, like some Bonnie and Clyde type stuff. By strategically releasing this song upon being arrested, Tay-K garnered national attention. This attention with the adept and addicting production created a cult following, which I am amongst. I don’t know if it’s the southern rap element, the viciousness of the bars, or the lifestyle associated but it’s a great listen if you’re into that type of music.

Your boys deep? Well, let’s get to subtractin’

Smith & Wesson made my 9 with sub-compaction (some compassion) — Tay K, The Race

There are a few songs with legendary lyrics such as the ones above. Take the following for example:

Turn this bitch sideways, rip him like some homework

Sneak up in his trap under the bed like a monster

Pop up out the cut with the choppa, who’s the owner?

Today, you’re not a trap-star, today, you are a donor

[…]

I said, “Yes,” dentist said, “Are you a smoker?”

OG cookies and pussy niggas, ’cause I do both — Tay K, Murder She Wrote

I mean come on, 1) who has the mind to come up with this string of words, 2) who has the balls to do it while on the run from the law?

Honestly, I hate seeing a kid so young (17 years old at time of arrest) falling into that kind of life and end up in prison for, likely, the rest of his life. But damned if he didn’t go out in a blaze of glory. Maybe he’ll get that Kodak or Bobby Shmurda treatment and get out after a few years. Regardless, this doesn’t dismiss the lack of regard for life. Even when you’re not the one pulling the trigger, that life will catch up with you and quick.

Provided below is Tay K’s only full work, Santana World. I don’t expect most people, especially on Medium, to like this kind of music — it’s gangster, trap rap. It’s a niche! But give it a listen if you’re interest, see what all the hooplah is about.

Originally posted on Medium