Emerging R&B Artist T-Royal Discussing Songwriting, Performing, Influences & More

Atlanta has always been a hub for high-level hip-hop and R&B acts, and it continues to do its job with rising artist T-Royal. The R&B singer is really starting to make his mark, like with his sunny summery new single “Piece of My Lovin’.” Perfect for the season, the bright, uplifting track combines old-school R&B vibes with modern melodies. To all you old school R&B heads, the song will feel like a bit of a throwback to the golden age of modern R&B of the ’90s. The positive vibes are all leading towards the release of T-Royal’s debut project, East Atlanta Superstar, which is on its way soon.

A product of his local environment, T-Royal grew up heavily influenced by Atlanta icons like Usher and TLC. He began singing, rapping, and trying his hand at songwriting when he was only 8. His music is defined by his emotionally rich vocals, which have been widely praised for their uniqueness. T-Royal’s career has really started to pick up over the last couple of years. One of his earliest wins was hitting the road nationally with Jacquees in 2023. He has demonstrated a commendable work ethic, finding his own way, forging his own path to where he is at now, which is one of the brightest and best young voices in R&B.

We are pleased to be joined today by T-Royal to get to know him a little better. He discusses songwriting, performing, musical influences, and more.

What do you think of the current state of R&B music?

T-Royal: “I think R&B is filled with tremendous artists from the U.S. to London and Africa. It’s a lot of new and experienced artist holding R&B down right now.”

Do you have any rituals before you hit the stage? If so, what are they?

“Yes, I always start with a cup of hot tea and use a breathing machine to clear my airways. Then I do 100 push-ups and drink a Red Bull. I also do a quick warm-up before going on.”

What is the story behind the name of your new record?

“I connected with the legendary Atlanta producer Mr. Hanky, who told me he had a record for me, and the rest is history. ‘Piece of My Lovin’’ is classic R&B with a fresh sound. It’s a celebration and empowerment of women, a sensual but respectful vibe that I feel is missing in today’s R&B.”

T-Royal, photo by Matthew Watkins

T-Royal, photo by Matthew Watkins

What’s your favourite city or venue to play?

“Austin, Texas. There’s so much support for artists in Texas—the love and hospitality they show is unmatched.”

How would you describe your creative process?

“My creative process comes straight from my heart and soul. Whatever I’m feeling in the moment, I pour it out onto my canvas and paint.”

When you write, do you do so with the live setting in mind, or do you write a song just for the song’s sake?

“Honestly, I mostly write for the song itself. But as I’m growing as an artist, I’ve been evolving my writing style to keep in mind that I’ll be performing these songs live and that the crowd will be experiencing them too.”

What’s the best criticism you’ve ever received about your music or performance?

“Someone once told me to explore more of my vocal range, especially my lower tones and bass. I took that advice, practiced it, and started bringing more variety into my music instead of sticking to one tone. It really helped me become a better singer.”

If you had an unlimited budget, where and with whom would you record your record? What about production and mastering? And why?

“Even with an unlimited budget, I’d probably keep working with the same team I’ve been creating with and just pay them more. We’ve built a strong bond and creative connection, and I wouldn’t want to change it.”

How does it make you feel when the power and energy you channelled in the studio comes to life in front of a crowd?

“Sometimes it makes you want to cry, and other times it gives you an adrenaline rush. It’s like you become a star in that moment and feel confident in yourself and proud of the work you’ve created.”

T-Royal, photo by Matthew Watkins

T-Royal, photo by Matthew Watkins

Do you ever get stage fright? What’s your solution for it?

“I’ve always had stage fright since I was a kid. But I’ve learned it usually comes from not feeling 100 percent sure of yourself. To push through it, I talk myself through it and remind myself exactly who I am. Especially before a show, when the energy is high. I lock in and the only thing on my mind is: SHOW TIME.”

Who are your biggest influences?

“My biggest musical influences are Future and Michael Jackson. They both know how to ignite emotion through their music, and that’s really inspired me to do the same.”

What do you like most about playing music?

“I love the release it gives me when I’m creating. It helps me feel alive and connected to myself.”

Is there anywhere you would like to go that you have not been?

“London! I’ve been seeing so many great things coming out of there—the actors, the artists, the fashion, and just the culture overall. It really inspires me.”