Fina De Fab

Detroit’s hip-hop scene is a crucible of resilience, creativity, and authenticity—a city that has given birth to some of the most influential voices in music. Out of this environment emerges Fina De Fab, a rising rap artist whose journey is as compelling as her sound. Her bold lyricism, electric stage presence, and unwavering dedication have set her apart, but it’s her connection to Detroit’s legacy and her own lived experiences that truly define her artistry.

For Fina, Detroit isn’t just a city; it’s a way of life. “Detroit shaped me as a person before it shaped me as an artist,” she reflects. Growing up amidst Detroit’s raw energy and unfiltered reality, she absorbed lessons in resilience, self-reliance, and honesty. The city’s storied hip-hop legacy inspired her, but it was the daily grind—the challenges and victories of real life—that molded her approach to music. “The city has a rawness to it, and I let that truth live in my music. I don’t hide the struggle or the growth—both are part of who I am.”

Fina’s music is a mirror of her journey. Her lyrics are unapologetically bold yet deeply personal, drawing on moments of triumph and vulnerability alike. “My inspiration comes from lived experience. I’ve had moments where I felt powerful and moments where I felt overlooked. Writing allows me to process both. Being honest in my lyrics is how I heal and connect with people who feel the same way.”Her songs often explore themes of perseverance, identity, and personal growth, resonating with listeners who see their own stories reflected in her words. She believes that strength and humanity go hand in hand. “I want strength to feel human, not distant.”

From an early age, Fina was drawn to artists who stood firm in their truth—those who balanced confidence with vulnerability. These influences shaped not just her sound, but her philosophy as an artist. “I was inspired by artists who stood firm in who they were. They weren’t afraid to show confidence or vulnerability. That balance is something I carry into my own music.”As she honed her craft, Fina learned to trust her instincts and embrace her unique voice. The turning point came when she stopped seeking validation from others and focused on her own vision. “The moment I stopped seeking validation outside of myself and trusted my instincts completely—that was a turning point.”

A recent highlight in Fina’s career was her collaboration with Curtis Young, the son of hip-hop legend Dr. Dre. The partnership was built on mutual respect and creative alignment. “The collaboration came together organically through mutual respect. Being in that creative space reminded me how far I’ve come and reinforced that I’m walking in alignment with my purpose.”This milestone not only affirmed her growth but also signaled her arrival as a force to be reckoned with in hip-hop. It was a testament to her relentless work ethic and the authenticity that sets her apart.

Music has always been more than a career for Fina—it’s been her anchor in turbulent times. She recalls a period when writing provided clarity and purpose during moments of uncertainty. “There was a point in my life where music became my outlet when nothing else made sense. Writing gave me clarity during moments of uncertainty, and that’s when I realized this was my calling.”

In an industry often driven by trends, Fina is adamant about staying true to her roots. “I stay grounded in my story. Detroit is in my foundation, but my voice is my own. I don’t chase trends—I let honesty lead the sound.”Her creative process is deeply intuitive. Sometimes she writes in silence, letting her emotions guide her pen; other times, she finds inspiration amid chaos. “I create from emotion first. Sometimes that means sitting in silence, other times it’s writing through chaos. I let myself feel fully before the music takes shape.”

Fina’s stage presence is legendary among her fans. Before every performance, she takes a moment to reflect and breathe, centering herself in her purpose and the people she represents. “Right before I step on stage, I take a moment to reflect and breathe. I remind myself why I started and who I represent. After that, I let go and trust the moment.”Her performances are more than entertainment—they’re a celebration of her journey and an invitation for others to find strength in their own stories.

Navigating the music industry hasn’t been without challenges. Fina has faced obstacles and setbacks, but she views each one as a lesson. “I’ve learned to see challenges as lessons. I allow myself to feel disappointment, but I don’t let it define me. Every obstacle has strengthened my resilience.”As a woman in hip-hop, she’s had to confront stereotypes and being underestimated. “Being underestimated has been a recurring challenge, but it pushed me to believe in my voice even more. I’ve learned to stand firm in my worth.”

Beyond the bold persona is a deeply introspective artist. “I’m very introspective. A lot of the confidence people see comes from quiet self-work behind the scenes.” This self-awareness fuels her authenticity, allowing her to connect with listeners on a profound level.Fina’s music isn’t just about her own journey—it’s about making others feel seen and understood. “I want people to feel seen and understood. My message is that strength doesn’t mean being unbreakable—it means continuing forward, even when it’s hard.”

With her sights set on growth and creative freedom, Fina is determined to build a legacy that’s both meaningful and authentic. Her advice to young women entering hip-hop is rooted in empowerment: “Protect your voice and your vision. Take your time, learn the business, and trust that your story matters.”Fina De Fab’s story is a testament to the power of authenticity, resilience, and heart. As she continues to rise, she remains a beacon for Detroit and a source of inspiration for artists everywhere. Her journey proves that with unwavering dedication and a fearless voice, anything is possible.

When people ask Latasha “Tash P” Perry where her story begins, she doesn’t hesitate: “Harrisburg, you know, that’s home, it’s what made me Tash P.” For Tash, Harrisburg is more than just a city—it’s the backdrop for every formative moment, the place that gave her both grit and inspiration. Growing up in Harrisburg in the early 2000s meant being surrounded by realness, resilience, and a sense of community where everyone knew your name. It was a place where music was everywhere—on street corners, in living rooms, and, most memorably for Tash, on the school bus.At 14, while most kids were still figuring out who they were, Tash P was discovering her voice. The MySpace era was booming—back when sharing music online felt revolutionary and every new friend request could change your life. “I’m kinda telling my age, but it was the MySpace days, lol,” she laughs. But for Tash, music started even before the uploads and profile songs. It started on those legendary high school bus rides home, where local teens would freestyle, battle, and show off their lyrical skills. “I used to hear other high school artists rap on the bus. I didn’t even know I could rap until I tried seriously, ‘cause I used to just rap with my homegirls and just make up silly rhymes.”What began as playful banter became something deeper. “I just kept trying, honestly. Pretty soon, I became one of the artists that rapped on the back of the bus too.” That space—raucous, supportive, competitive—became her first stage. It was here that Tash learned to hold her own, to command attention, and to let her creativity flow without fear or filter. The back of the bus was a proving ground, and Tash quickly became known as someone who could spit with the best of them.But Harrisburg’s influence went beyond music. The city taught her about loyalty, about standing tall, and about never forgetting where you come from. “That’s really where it all started for me. It was about being fearless, putting yourself out there, and just letting the music flow.” The lessons she learned here—about authenticity and ambition—would follow her throughout her career.

As Tash P’s confidence grew, so did her ambition. She started recording her own tracks—raw, unpolished, but full of heart—using whatever equipment she could get her hands on. “I had no idea about mixing and mastering at the time—just made a music MySpace.” In those days, MySpace was more than a social network; it was a digital stage, a place where unknown artists could connect with fans, collaborators, and even industry insiders.It was through MySpace that Tash’s world expanded. “I met the CEO K.O. (Danny) on MySpace around age 17 or 18. I sent one of my songs—I think I used to record on my computer—he heard it, was in the same city, next thing you know I’m rolling with them.” That simple message changed everything. K.O. saw something in Tash before she even fully believed in herself. He invited her to join Sykkline Entertainment, an independent label that was home to a tight-knit crew of up-and-coming artists: Spitz, Yinnix, Tuck, Shak, Mookie (R.I.P), and more.Sykkline was more than a label—it was a family. “Sykkline was honestly the blueprint of Tash P outside of my high school shenanigans. They saw the talent waaay before I did.” The crew welcomed her with open arms, giving her space to experiment, to learn, and to grow. “They really paved the way for me and showed me how to be an artist. They taught me about writing, performing, and the business. It was more than music—it was about building something together.”Studio sessions with Sykkline were legendary—long nights fueled by ambition and creativity, where everyone pushed each other to be better. “We were all hungry, just trying to make our mark. Sykkline gave me the space to experiment, to fail, to get back up and try again.” They celebrated each other’s wins, supported each other through setbacks, and built a foundation that would last long after the music stopped playing.Being part of Sykkline also meant learning the ropes of the industry—the importance of networking, the realities of promotion, and the power of believing in your own vision. “I learned so much from them—not just about music, but about life.” For Tash, those early years were about more than just finding her sound; they were about finding her tribe.

By 19, Tash P was no longer just a local talent—she was a force to be reckoned with. The turning point came when she was awarded Best Female Artist at the Central PA Hip Hop Awards. “Winning Best Female Artist indeed was huge! I was only 19 at the time, so it was kinda at that moment when I was like, ok, I really can make music, I really have a gift.”This wasn’t just another accolade—it was a moment of self-realization. For Tash, the award was validation that her passion, her persistence, and her willingness to put herself out there had paid off. “That win made me believe in myself. It was proof that all the hard work, all the bus rides, all the late nights in the studio were worth it. It gave me the confidence to keep pushing, to dream bigger.”But the recognition also came with responsibility. Suddenly, Tash had an audience looking up to her, peers cheering her on, and a city rooting for her success. She was determined not to let them down. “It wasn’t just about me anymore—it was about representing Harrisburg, representing women in hip hop, and showing the next generation that anything is possible.”Winning the award opened new doors—bigger shows, more collaborations, and a growing fanbase. But for Tash, the most important thing was staying true to her roots. “No matter how far I go, I’ll always be that girl from Harrisburg who started on the back of the bus.”

Looking back, Tash P sees those early years as the spark that ignited everything that followed. Each bus ride, each studio session, each small victory and setback was a building block, shaping not just her music, but her character. “Those bus rides, those studio sessions, those first shows—they made me who I am. They taught me to be fearless, to trust my voice, and to keep going no matter what.”Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and community. She didn’t have fancy equipment or a major label deal—just a computer, a MySpace page, and relentless drive. “I learned to never give up, to keep showing up for myself, and to always remember where I came from.”For Tash, the lessons of Harrisburg and Sykkline are woven into every lyric, every performance, and every new project. “These early experiences didn’t just shape my sound—they shaped me. I’m grateful for every moment, every lesson, every challenge. They made me the artist, and the woman, I am today.”As she continues to rise, Tash P carries her city, her crew, and her younger self with her—proof that greatness can start anywhere, even in the back of a Harrisburg school bus.

There are artists whose voices linger in your mind long after the last note fades, but few can warm your heart quite like Tea. Known on stage by a name that’s both a clever pun and a perfect metaphor, Tea pours her soul into every note, delivering music that comforts and uplifts, just like a steaming cup of tea on a chilly day. This is more than a stage name—it’s a reflection of her spirit, her artistry, and the impact she has on everyone lucky enough to listen.

Tea didn’t choose her name on a whim. Over the years, she noticed a pattern: people would approach her after shows, or slide into her DMs, sharing how her music helped them through heartbreak, loss, or moments of doubt. Some said her voice “ministered to their soul,” while others described feeling lighter and more hopeful after hearing her sing. Tea realized she was, quite literally, serving comfort and healing—one song at a time. That’s when it clicked: her music wasn’t just entertainment, it was a warm embrace, a light in the darkness. She became “Tea”—the artist who soothes and inspires.

Tea’s musical journey began before most kids can tie their shoes. Raised in a family where church was the heartbeat of the community, she found her first stage at five years old. Her uncle, recognizing her gift, handpicked her to sing a solo at their family church. The congregation was stunned—a tiny girl with a big, soulful voice, singing with the conviction of someone decades older. That moment wasn’t just a proud family memory; it was the spark that lit Tea’s lifelong passion for music.

By twelve, Tea had become the lead vocalist for her church’s youth choir. It was a big responsibility, but it taught her something priceless: how to lead, how to trust her instincts, and how to inspire others through music. “That experience built up a confidence in myself that I am as great as I think I am, and the sky is the limit,” she reflects. Those early days shaped not just her voice, but her sense of self-worth and her belief in the power of music to connect and uplift.

Tea’s teen years took her behind the scenes, where she honed her craft as a background vocalist for other artists—both live and in the studio. Far from being a step back, this chapter deepened her love for music’s subtler side. She fell in love with harmony, the magic of blending voices, and the thrill of creating ad libs that add unexpected flavor to a song. These skills now define her sound, giving her music a richness and emotional depth that’s instantly recognizable.

Ask Tea what’s happening inside when she sings, and she’ll describe a spark in her chest—a physical, electric feeling that tells her she’s exactly where she’s meant to be. “I close my eyes and feel every note before I belt it out,” she says. For Tea, singing isn’t just performance; it’s a full-body, soul-deep experience. Each show is a chance to connect, to heal, and to remind her audience (and herself) that music is a universal language of hope.

Tea’s artistry is a colorful blend of influences. She draws on the electric showmanship of Michael Jackson, the timeless soul of The Temptations, the emotional honesty of Selena, the smooth brilliance of Brandy, the creative spark of Victoria Monét, and the raw storytelling of Jessie Reyez. These legends inspire her harmonies, her chord choices, and her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. Tea’s songwriting is lightning-fast—she can write a full song in less than ten minutes—yet every lyric is packed with meaning and heart.

What does Tea hope you feel when you press play on her music? Pure passion. “Music is the only form of art that feels like home,” she shares. She wants listeners to feel that sense of belonging, to know they’re not alone, and to find comfort in her melodies.

Tea’s talent didn’t go unnoticed. In 2013, she signed as the lead female vocalist with Realeyez Entertainment, performing at Baltimore’s AFRAM Festival and countless open mic venues. Each performance brought new fans and deeper self-assurance. It was the audience’s response, their cheers and heartfelt messages, that made Tea realize: “I belong here.”

Looking to expand her reach, Tea released a Christmas album on SoundCloud, putting her own soulful twist on beloved classics. It was a strategic move—familiar songs, but with her signature warmth and originality, inviting new listeners to experience her voice in a fresh way.