Meet TAJ SIMONE of Atlanta

Today we’d like to introduce you to TAJ SIMONE.

Hi TAJ, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Early in my childhood, I knew that my gift was writing–being able to convey and express my thoughts freely on paper, leisurely and academically. After my family and I moved from Detroit, MI, to Atlanta, GA, I received accolades for the highest score on the Georgia state writing exam in the 5th grade and continued to express various avenues of writing. My unconditional and unwavering love for music, specifically R&B and Soul, has always been present, yet intensified once I reached the age of 13. Although reserved and private, I began my songwriting journey in middle school, despite the lack of confidence to share my lyrics. Surprisingly, the gift of voice came shortly after from looking up to the likes of Kehlani, Aaliyah, Mary J. Blige, SWV, Xscape, and more of my personal idols.

From 2020 to 2023, I experienced trials and tribulations that many in my audience, I’m sure, can relate to, such as instability, risk of homelessness, family differences, and sexual abuse, resulting in mental health challenges. These events are what ultimately posed a roadblock to my ultimate destiny–a singer/songwriter and multi-talented entertainment personality. I experienced mental warfare like no other. I prayed endlessly for God to bring me out of dark places and instances where I felt like I wasn’t going to sustain or survive.

It wasn’t until January 2024 that I was ready to record music for the very first time in my life, catering to a mixture of contemporary R&B, Afro, Hip-Hop, and Rap, with Midwest and Southern influence. As an adult, I will not hold myself back the same way I did as a child. I will not live in fear or seek the validation of the world, but only God, because not only did He bless me with the gift of song, He brought me out of hiding. For me to hide my gift is a disservice to myself, and I can no longer wait for the “right moment”. I know and fully understand that it is now or never. For the times I felt unseen and overlooked, I am making my strides, big and small, in music for “Lil Taj”, who was shy to soar. Currently an independent artist, I have been working diligently to develop my sound, while also releasing singles such as “Show Me”, “Control Me”, and “Have You Ever” (available on all major platforms). I choose to bet on me and channel my focus into my craft every single day, in hopes of becoming one of the greats–with hard work and dedication.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has been challenging because I don’t yet have a dedicated management team. Every dollar spent on studio time, visuals, and show appearances has been funded solely by me. I am my own source of motivation and coach to hold myself accountable in terms of work ethic and time management. The main struggle has been financial circumstances, as I was evicted from college housing in August 2025. Moreover, the comparison was made between my sister, whom I grew up seeing successfully evolve in music as a rapper. Due to me being studious and a natural bookworm, my family always looked at me as the “next Oprah”. Always feeling like I had to live up to my family’s expectations, it took years to stand firm on what it is that “Taj” desires, despite reservations and concerns. Consequently, not having a big support system, in-house, led to me to question myself before embarking on this long-overdue path.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am an independent singer/songwriter, best known for my versatility, raspy, and heartfelt blend that I show on social media with “Bathroom Sessions”, where I sing timeless hits in the setting where I started vocally projecting as a little girl. I am most proud of my resilience and my willingness to be a student/teacher when it comes to artist development, and in general. Personality-wise, my bubbly yet reserved persona grabs the attention of many because I am approachable and coachable. Physically, my birthmark is what makes me stand out, as it covers the right side of my face, embracing natural beauty and confidence.

How do you think about happiness?
When I listen to a track, I brainstorm on the flow and begin writing–I grow beyond eager to not only see what the result is, but what’s to follow. My progress and my commitment to grow are what keep my energy elevated and at its highest. Collaborating and working with other independent artists who have the same goals as me is fulfilling because of the type of aura I want to be around, which motivates me to keep going, no matter the obstacle.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thenameistaj?igsh=Z3BzaTExanZrM3g3&utm_source=qr
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UC0d7XQXMw-m5UeSOwuSGZBQ?si=5kRf_vCZy9964w93

Image Credits
EyeofaKing