Lil Tjay Age: Everything You Need to Know About the Rising Rap Star

Lil Tjay is one of the most talked-about rappers of his generation, and fans around the world are constantly searching for details about his life, especially his age and career journey. Born in the Bronx, New York, Lil Tjay’s rise to fame has been both inspiring and dramatic. Known for his melodic rap style and emotional lyrics, he quickly earned the title of “Bronx’s Justin Bieber” when he first started making waves in the music industry.

But Lil Tjay’s story goes beyond his music. Many people also search with questions like “Is Lil Tjay dead?”, “Lil Tjay shot”, “What happened to Lil Tjay?”, and “Lil Tjay shooting” because of the highly publicized incident in 2022 when he was shot multiple times. Fortunately, the rapper survived and has since continued to thrive in his career. This incident not only raised awareness about the dangers young rappers face but also showed his resilience and determination to keep pushing forward.

At just a young age, Lil Tjay has already achieved chart-topping singles, major collaborations, and millions of fans worldwide. His songs resonate with young people who identify with his struggles, triumphs, and authenticity. In this article, we’ll dive into everything about Lil Tjay’s age, early life, personal relationships, career achievements, net worth, lifestyle, hobbies, and prospects—all in one detailed guide.

By the end, you’ll have a complete understanding of who Lil Tjay is, how far he has come, and why he continues to inspire millions despite the obstacles in his path.

Quick Bio

Category	Details
Full Name	Tione Jayden Merritt
Stage Name	Lil Tjay
Date of Birth	April 30, 2001
Age (2025)	24 years old
Birthplace	Bronx, New York City, USA
Nationality	American
Ethnicity	African-American
Religion	Christian
Zodiac Sign	Taurus
Family	Mother (name undisclosed), two younger siblings; raised primarily by his mother in the Bronx
Education	Attended local schools in the Bronx; later focused on a music career
Profession	Rapper, Singer, Songwriter
Genres	Hip-Hop, Drill, Trap, R&B
Career Highlights	Rose to fame with single “Resume” (2017); breakout hit “Brothers”; signed to Columbia Records (2018); debut album True 2 Myself (2019); albums Destined 2 Win (2021) and 222 (2023); collaborations with Polo G, Pop Smoke, Fivio Foreign, and others
Awards/Nominations	Billboard Music Award nominations; several platinum-certified singles
Net Worth (2025)	$8 million (approx.)
Primary Income Sources	Music sales, streaming, concerts/tours, brand endorsements, collaborations
Height	5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
Weight	68 kg (150 lbs)
Body Measurements	Chest: 40 in (102 cm), Waist: 32 in (81 cm), Biceps: 13 in (33 cm)
Body Type	Athletic, Lean
Eye Color	Dark Brown
Hair Color	Black (often styled in braids/dreads)
Distinctive Features	Tattoos, melodic rap style, Bronx street-influenced fashion
Relationship Status	Reportedly dating Lala Baptiste (model/influencer), though he keeps much of his personal life private.
Children	None publicly known
Residence (2025)	New Jersey, USA
Notable Facts	Survived a near-fatal shooting in June 2022; widely recognized as a leading Figure in the new wave of New York rap; nicknamed the “Bronx Justin Bieber” early in his career due to melodic style.

Who is Lil Tjay?

Lil Tjay, whose real name is Tione Jayden Merritt, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He was born on April 30, 2001, which makes him 24 years old in 2025. Despite his young age, he has already carved a powerful name for himself in the rap industry. Known for blending melodic vocals with street-inspired rap, Lil Tjay’s music bridges the gap between hip-hop and R&B.

He first gained recognition in 2017 after releasing tracks on SoundCloud, where his song “Resume” quickly went viral. His breakout followed this momentum hit “Brothers”, which earned him millions of streams and eventually led to a record deal with Columbia Records. His career truly skyrocketed after his feature on Polo G’s “Pop Out” in 2019, a track that climbed the Billboard Hot 100 and introduced him to a much larger audience.

Since then, Lil Tjay has dropped successful albums like True 2 Myself (2019) and Destined 2 Win (2021), both of which solidified his position as one of the leading voices of the new generation of rappers. Songs like “F.N.”, “Calling My Phone” (with 6LACK), and “Leaked” have become anthems for his fans, blending pain, vulnerability, and street survival into catchy, emotional tracks.

Beyond the music, Lil Tjay is admired for his resilience. The 2022 shooting incident almost cost him his life, but he bounced back stronger, returning to music with projects and performances that reassured fans he wasn’t going anywhere. His ability to turn pain into music is one of the reasons his fanbase is so loyal.

Today, Lil Tjay stands as more than just an artist. He’s a cultural Figure, symbolizing hope, struggle, and success against the odds. He continues to inspire young fans who see him as proof that no matter where you come from, it’s possible to rise to greatness.

Early Life and Background

Lil Tjay’s upbringing shaped the person and artist he is today. Born and raised in the Bronx, New York, he grew up in a challenging environment where crime, violence, and poverty were common.

• Birth Name: Tione Jayden Merritt
• Date of Birth: April 30, 2001
• Hometown: Bronx, New York

From an early age, Lil Tjay had a natural gift for music. However, his teenage years were marked by difficulties. He often found himself getting into trouble and even spent time in juvenile detention. During this period, he started to focus more on writing and creating music, treating it as a form of therapy and self-expression.

Music soon became his escape route from the struggles of the streets. With limited resources, he used SoundCloud as his launchpad, uploading tracks that quickly gained attention. The raw honesty in his lyrics resonated with listeners who connected with his real-life experiences.

His tough background not only influenced his music but also gave him the determination to succeed. Today, his story serves as motivation for others facing similar struggles, proving that it’s possible to rise above your circumstances.

Personal Life and Relationships

Despite his fame, Lil Tjay tends to keep his personal life relatively private. However, some details about his relationships and lifestyle are known to the public.

• Family Ties: Lil Tjay grew up in a single-parent household with his mother. He often talks about how she played a big role in his life and supported him through tough times.
• Siblings: He has younger siblings whom he deeply cares about, and his success has allowed him to support them.
• Romantic Life: Over the years, Lil Tjay has been linked with several high-profile relationships, though he doesn’t often make them the focus of his public image.
• Parenthood: While there have been rumors about him being a father, Lil Tjay has mostly kept those details away from the spotlight.

What stands out is that despite fame, money, and recognition, Lil Tjay maintains a sense of loyalty to his family and friends. He often emphasizes in interviews and lyrics how important it is for him to provide a better life for the people who were with him from the start.

Career and Achievements

Lil Tjay’s career has been filled with milestones that many artists only dream of achieving at such a young age.

• 2017: Gained early fame on SoundCloud with tracks like Resume and Brothers.
• 2018: Signed with Columbia Records after catching industry attention.
• 2019: Released his debut album True 2 Myself, which peaked at #5 on the Billboard 200.
• 2019: Collaborated with Polo G on Pop Out, one of his biggest hits to date.
• 2020: Released hit singles F.N. and Leaked, earning millions of streams.
• 2021: Dropped his second album, Destined 2 Win, featuring hits like Calling My Phone (with 6LACK).
• 2022: Survived a life-threatening shooting but returned to music stronger than ever.
• 2023–2025: Continued releasing music, touring, and solidifying his place as one of the most influential young rappers.

His ability to deliver chart-topping hits while staying true to his unique style has made him a household name. Beyond just commercial success, his music has cultural significance, representing the struggles and dreams of young people from similar backgrounds.

Net Worth Overview

Lil Tjay’s financial success is as impressive as his music career. Despite his young age, he has built a substantial fortune through his artistry, endorsements, and business moves.

Year	Estimated Net Worth	Key Highlights
2020	$2 million	Rise with True 2 Myself, streaming income
2021	$4 million	Destined 2 Win album, increased touring revenue
2022	$5 million	Streaming growth, endorsement deals despite shooting incident
2023	$6 million	Return to music, more concerts, stronger brand presence
2024	$7 million	International tours, merchandise sales, and brand collaborations
2025	$8 million	Continued music success, new album releases, and business ventures

This growth highlights not just his music career but also his smart approach to monetizing his brand and expanding his revenue streams.

Major Sources of Income

Lil Tjay’s wealth doesn’t come from just one source. Over the years, he has established multiple income streams that have fueled his growing net worth. Here are the primary contributors to his fortune:

• Music Sales and Streaming
• His biggest source of income comes from music. With millions of streams across platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, he earns royalties for every play. Songs like Calling My Phone and F.N. are still generating strong numbers.
• Concerts and Tours
• Live performances and tours are another major revenue source. Lil Tjay commands packed venues in the U.S. and internationally. Ticket sales, VIP packages, and merchandise during shows add up to significant earnings.
• Record Deals
• Signing with Columbia Records secured him a lucrative contract that provided upfront advances and a share of future royalties. As his popularity grows, renegotiated contracts bring even more money.
• Brand Endorsements
• Lil Tjay has partnered with popular streetwear and lifestyle brands. These deals not only add income but also strengthen his cultural presence.
• Merchandise Sales
• His official merchandise line, featuring clothing and accessories, contributes to his wealth. Fans proudly wear his gear, making this a consistent revenue stream.
• YouTube and Social Media Monetization
• With millions of subscribers and followers, his content generates ad revenue, brand collaborations, and fan engagement, further boosting his income.

Lil Tjay’s Luxurious Lifestyle

With fame and wealth comes a lifestyle many can only dream of, and Lil Tjay is no exception. Despite his humble beginnings, he now enjoys the luxuries of success.

• Expensive Cars
• Lil Tjay has a collection of luxury cars, often flaunting brands like Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce, and Mercedes-Benz. These vehicles symbolize his success and love for speed.
• Fashion and Jewelry
• Known for his flashy style, Lil Tjay spends heavily on designer clothes and custom jewelry. His diamond-studded chains and watches reflect his hip-hop lifestyle.
• Lavish Homes
• He has invested in upscale properties, moving from the Bronx to luxurious living spaces. His homes feature modern amenities, private studios, and entertainment areas.
• Travel and Vacations
• Lil Tjay frequently travels for work and leisure, exploring exotic destinations. His Instagram often showcases beach resorts, luxury hotels, and private jets.
• Giving Back
• Beyond luxury, he also invests in his community. He has been vocal about helping his family and supporting causes close to his heart.

His lifestyle perfectly balances indulgence and responsibility, showing fans that success can be enjoyed while still making meaningful contributions.

Hobbies and Fun Facts

Lil Tjay isn’t all about music and fame. He has a personality full of interests and quirks that make him relatable to his fans.

• Love for Basketball
• Like many rappers, he enjoys playing basketball in his free time. He often engages in friendly games with friends and fellow artists.
• Passion for Gaming
• Lil Tjay is a fan of video games. He spends hours on popular titles like NBA 2K and Call of Duty, often sharing snippets with fans online.
• Fashion Enthusiast
• He takes pride in his outfits and loves experimenting with different styles. Whether it’s designer wear or street fashion, he knows how to stand out.
• Songwriting as Therapy
• Lil Tjay has admitted that writing music is his way of dealing with emotions and life struggles. His ability to turn pain into lyrics makes his music authentic.
• Nickname Story
• His stage name “Lil Tjay” comes from his birth name Tione Jayden Merritt, where “T” stands for Tione and “Jay” for Jayden.
• Fitness Routine
• After his recovery from the 2022 shooting, Lil Tjay became more focused on fitness. He regularly works out to maintain his health and stamina.
• Animal Lover
• He has shown his love for pets, particularly dogs, and enjoys spending downtime with them.
• Global Fanbase
• Even though he’s from New York, Lil Tjay has fans worldwide, especially in Europe and Asia, where his concerts attract massive crowds.
• Survivor Mindset
• His story of surviving a near-death experience in 2022 has made him an inspirational Figure, proving his strength and resilience.

These fun facts highlight that, beyond his fame, Lil Tjay remains a young man with passions, dreams, and a playful side that resonates with his fans.

Future Prospects

Lil Tjay has already achieved so much at a young age, but his journey is far from over. Looking ahead, his future appears brighter than ever.

• New Music Projects
• Fans can expect more albums and collaborations with top artists. His sound continues to evolve, promising exciting releases.
• Global Tours
• With his growing international fanbase, expanded tours in Asia, Europe, and Africa are on the horizon.
• Business Ventures
• Beyond music, Lil Tjay may venture into fashion lines, record labels, or tech investments to grow his wealth.
• Philanthropy
• His desire to give back suggests he will expand into charity work, especially for underprivileged youth.
• Social Media Influence
• His strong presence online will help him launch more personal brands, endorsements, and creative projects.
• Hollywood Possibilities
• With his charisma, Lil Tjay could also explore acting roles in movies or TV shows.

Overall, his determination and versatility ensure he has a lasting future in the entertainment industry.

Impact on Social Media

Social media has played a vital role in Lil Tjay’s success. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube have amplified his voice and connected him directly with fans.

• Instagram: With millions of followers, he shares updates, fashion, lifestyle moments, and music promotions. His posts often go viral within hours.
• YouTube: His channel features music videos and behind-the-scenes content, generating millions of views and ad revenue.
• TikTok: Songs like Calling My Phone have gone viral on TikTok, introducing him to younger audiences.
• Twitter/X: He uses Twitter to interact with fans, share opinions, and promote new projects.
• Fan Engagement: Social media keeps fans engaged through giveaways, Q&As, and live sessions.

Lil Tjay’s social media impact isn’t just about promotion—it’s about building a loyal community that follows his journey through thick and thin.

Social Media Profile

Platform	Link
Wikipedia	Click here
Instagram	Click here

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How old is Lil Tjay in 2025?

A: Lil Tjay is 24 years old in 2025. He was born on April 30, 2001.

Q2: Is Lil Tjay dead?

A: No, Lil Tjay is alive. Despite rumors after the 2022 shooting, he survived and continues to thrive in his career.

Q3: What happened to Lil Tjay in 2022?

A: He was shot multiple times during an attempted robbery in New Jersey. Thankfully, he recovered and returned to making music.

Q4: What is Lil Tjay’s net worth in 2025?

A: His estimated net worth in 2025 is around $8 million, thanks to his music, tours, and brand deals.

Q5: What are some of his biggest hits?

A: Popular songs include Calling My Phone, F.N., Leaked, and Pop Out with Polo G.

Q6: Does Lil Tjay have children?

A: He has not publicly confirmed fatherhood, keeping that part of his life private.

Q7: What is Lil Tjay’s real name?

A: His real name is Tione Jayden Merritt.

Conclusion

Lil Tjay’s journey from the Bronx to becoming an international rap star is nothing short of inspirational. At just 24 years old, he has already faced life’s toughest challenges, including poverty, legal troubles, and even a near-death shooting incident. Yet, through resilience and passion, he has risen above it all to become one of the most influential rappers of his generation.

His music resonates with millions because it is raw, real, and deeply personal. With a net worth of $8 million in 2025, a loyal global fanbase, and a promising career ahead, Lil Tjay is proof that hard work and perseverance can change lives.

From his early beginnings in the Bronx to performing on international stages, Lil Tjay’s story continues to inspire fans everywhere. His age may be young, but his impact on music and culture is undeniable. As he moves into the future, there’s no doubt that his legacy will only grow stronger.

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