Tutzy

Tutzy is an independent artist whose music is rooted in storytelling, nostalgia, and a lifelong love of words.

Long before stepping into a recording booth, Tutzy was writing poetry. At just 11 years old, she began filling notebooks with poems and reflections, discovering an early passion for language and self-expression. By age 14, she performed her first spoken-word piece and received a standing ovation. In that moment, she realized she had a gift—not just for writing, but for connecting with people through her words.

That passion followed her into high school, where she attended a performing arts academy and continued developing her voice as a writer and performer. She later graduated summa cum laude from North Carolina A&T State University, a milestone she carries with immense pride as a member of the Aggie family and the rich tradition of HBCU excellence.

Music runs deep in Tutzy's family. She credits her father with nurturing her love for music, a gift passed down through generations. Her grandfather, Allen of Mississippi, was known throughout his community as both a gifted musician and a spiritual man who was often called upon to pray over and cleanse homes. His influence, along with the musical talents that flowed through her family lineage, helped shape the foundation of the artist she would become. Her older sister, OD Royale, is also a talented artist who had the honor of performing live at Showtime at the Apollo, one of the most respected stages for emerging talent. Growing up surrounded by musicians and performers reinforced the belief that creative expression wasn't just a passion—it was a calling.

Raised primarily by strong Black women and men, Tutzy's worldview and artistry were shaped by the culture, values, resilience, and storytelling traditions of the communities that poured into her throughout her life. More recently, she discovered her Indigenous, Mexican and Italian roots and continues to learn more about her family's history, embracing the many threads that make up her identity.

With roots stretching from Mississippi to Missouri and from Florida to Virginia, Tutzy's music reflects a unique blend of cultures, influences, and experiences. Her heritage and multi-state upbringing can be heard throughout her sound, creating music that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.

Outside of music, Tutzy is a devoted wife and mother. She is the proud mother of two children and bonus mom to two more. She has been with her husband, fellow recording artist Jimmy Codean, for more than 15 years and recently celebrated 10 years of marriage. Their partnership, built on faith, family, creativity, and perseverance, continues to inspire both their personal lives and artistic journeys.

Inspired by the soul of the 70s, 80s and 90s but grounded firmly in the present, Tutzy creates music that celebrates authenticity, confidence, community, and self-discovery. Whether she's delivering thoughtful lyricism, painting vivid pictures of everyday life, or crafting records that make listeners reminisce about simpler times, her music invites audiences into a world where storytelling still matters.

For Tutzy, music has never been about following trends. It's about honoring the art of communication, preserving culture, and creating songs that stay with listeners long after the music stops.