NEW YORK (AP) – Ty Dolla $ign is back in the spotlight with the release of his fifth studio album, titled "Tycoon." This marks his first full-length solo album in five years, reflecting his vibrant state of mind. The artist describes "tycoon" as a representation of being at the peak of one's career while acknowledging that there is still more to achieve. With a slew of multiplatinum records under his belt and a recent collaborative project with Kanye West, this album signals a triumphant return for the Grammy-nominated artist.
Since 2018, Ty Dolla $ign has solidified his presence in the music industry, which includes his successful collaboration with Kanye West, resulting in two chart-topping albums, "Vultures 1" and "Vultures 2,"released in 2024. These albums debuted at No. 1 and No. 2 on the Billboard 200, affirming his position in R&B.
"Tycoon" embodies the classic Ty Dolla $ign style—an engaging blend of catchy, explicit R&B anthems centered on themes of lust and love. The album features an impressive array of collaborations, including appearances from artists such as Quavo, Juicy J, 2 Chainz, Tyga, and Travis Scott. A notable collaboration also occurs with rappers Kodak Black and YG on the track "SMILE BODY PRETTY FACE." Ty Dolla $ign states that when creating the song, it was clear that YG's involvement was essential to its success.
The romantic undertones in "Tycoon" reflect Ty Dolla $ign's own journey with love and devotion. His lead single, "All In," exhibits this sentiment, as he sings about being fully committed to a partner. The song samples Wayne Wonder's 2002 reggae fusion track "No Letting Go," adding depth to his exploration of relationships. Ty Dolla $ign shares that love has always inspired his music, despite his personal experiences indicating that it hasn’t consistently worked out in his favor.
In addition to his music, Ty Dolla $ign is making strides in the business world with his label, EZMNY, launched in partnership with Motown Records executive Shawn Barron. The label's first signing, R&B artist Leon Thomas, achieved significant success with his single "Mutt," which peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Ty emphasizes his goal with EZMNY is to provide opportunities for genuine artists, noting his own late start in the industry at the age of 27.
Ty Dolla $ign envisions a resurgence for R&B, particularly with the talents of Leon Thomas. While the release of the rumored "Vultures 3" remains uncertain, Ty reflects on the successful experience of creating music on his own terms, stating that their prior projects were rewarding, both creatively and commercially. He maintains an open mind about future collaborations, suggesting that anything is possible.
As he embarks on the "Tycoon" tour, Ty Dolla $ign is also preparing to share his new documentary, "Still Free TC," which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival. The documentary, which revisits themes from his debut album "Free TC," focuses on his brother Big TC, who is serving a life sentence for murder, a conviction Ty believes is wrongful. Additionally, the film reveals more about Ty Dolla $ign's personal journey, shedding light on the mass incarceration concerns affecting his family.
Ty expresses his desire for viewers to connect with his documentary, stating, "I’ve had a lot of friends and fans tell me that, like, ‘Yeah, you never show anybody for real. You never let anybody in.’ So, this is the time where I let everybody in." Through "Tycoon," he aims to inspire listeners to believe in themselves and assures them that he will continue to deliver exceptional music.
