Tay Keith Launches “My Memphis Poetry Challenge” For Youth
This past weekend, the Memphis’ music scene was buzzing with excitement as Grammy-nominated producer Tay Keith teamed up with the City of Memphis Office of Youth Services for the launch of the “My Memphis Poetry Challenge.” This city-wide competition aimed to showcase the voices of young people in Memphis, providing them with a platform for creative expression and recognition. The event, held at the iconic City Hall, was a celebration of local talent, offering cash prizes, exclusive designer sneakers, and even Beats by Dre headphones to the top five youth poets.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by Tay Keith and his record label, DRUMATIZED, to invest in the next generation of creative minds, supporting youth across Memphis through various artistic endeavors. In this article, we’ll explore how this unique event is making waves in the city, the powerful impact of creativity on the youth, and how Tay Keith is shaping Memphis’ cultural future.
Tay Keith’s Vision: Giving Back to Memphis
Tay Keith’s success in the music industry is well known, from producing chart-topping hits for artists like Drake, Travis Scott, and Quavo, to being named “Producer of the Year” at the 2024 BMI Awards. However, Keith’s connection to Memphis runs deeper than just his musical roots. The city played a major role in shaping his career, and now he’s paying it forward.
“Without poetry, we wouldn’t have lyricism. Without lyricism, we wouldn’t have the music you love,” says Tay Keith. His commitment to supporting creative expression, particularly among young people in his hometown, is evident through initiatives like the “My Memphis Poetry Challenge.” The competition gave young poets up to the age of 18 a chance to be recognized for their writing and performance skills, ultimately showcasing the diversity of talent present in Memphis.
Moreover, the event also marked the beginning of a larger ongoing project called “Memphis Sole Resolution: Kicks for Our Future.” This initiative aims to empower Memphis youth by donating sneakers at various events, partnerships, and creative initiatives designed to inspire confidence and self-expression.
Highlighting Memphis’ Creative Youth
The “My Memphis Poetry Challenge” was more than just a competition; it was an opportunity for young poets to be seen and heard. Memphis has long been known for its rich musical history and vibrant cultural scene, but this event highlighted the city’s growing community of poets, writers, and other creatives.
The event took place in the prestigious Hall of Mayors at Memphis City Hall, where the top five poets were honored and celebrated for their talent. In addition to cash prizes, the winners received Beats by Dre headphones, gift cards, and an exclusive pair of designer sneakers from Tay Keith himself.
The exposure that these young poets received at the event is invaluable, as it offers them the chance to build a portfolio, gain recognition, and feel validated in their creative pursuits. This opportunity will undoubtedly open doors for many of them, encouraging them to continue honing their craft and finding their unique voices.
“Memphis Sole Resolution”: Kicks for the Future
One of the most exciting parts of Tay Keith’s partnership with the City of Memphis is the launch of the “Memphis Sole Resolution.” This initiative is designed to provide youth across the city with a tangible, uplifting gift—new sneakers—while also fostering a sense of community and support. Keith understands that material gifts like sneakers may seem small, but they hold significant meaning in providing youth with confidence and motivation.
Through this ongoing initiative, Tay Keith plans to distribute sneakers to young people throughout Memphis, with the goal of inspiring them to step forward with pride, purpose, and a sense of belonging. This donation of sneakers goes beyond simple charity—it represents an investment in Memphis’ future and a reminder that every young person deserves the opportunity to shine.
The Impact of Creativity on Youth Development
Tay Keith’s commitment to supporting Memphis’ youth is rooted in his belief in the power of creative expression. Whether through poetry, music, or other forms of art, creativity has the ability to empower young people, helping them build confidence, problem-solving skills, and a sense of identity. For Tay Keith, poetry and lyricism are deeply intertwined, with one art form feeding into the other.
In addition to the poetry challenge and sneaker donations, Tay Keith’s record label, DRUMATIZED, has been involved in several mentorship initiatives aimed at helping young people break into the music industry. Keith’s innovative monthly music-mentorship camps have featured country music icons such as Walker Hayes and Lalo Guzman, alongside hip-hop artists, fostering a cross-genre creative environment.
As a result, these camps provide emerging talent with hands-on learning opportunities, connecting them with seasoned industry professionals and teaching them valuable skills they can apply in their careers. The combination of mentorship, practical experience, and community-building is key to developing the next generation of artists and leaders.
Tay Keith’s Continued Influence in Memphis and Beyond
Furthermore, Tay Keith’s success in the music industry has not only earned him accolades like a spot on Forbes’ 2025 30 Under 30 list but has also positioned him as a leader in shaping the future of Memphis’ cultural landscape. As the founder of the second Black-owned studio and label in Nashville, Keith has created a platform for rising stars and up-and-coming talent to develop their skills and break into the industry.
With artists like BossMan Dlow and Sexyy Red signed to his label, Tay Keith’s influence extends far beyond his own productions. He’s actively nurturing and promoting the next generation of talent, both in the music industry and in the wider creative arts. His work is redefining what it means to be an artist, producer, and mentor in today’s ever-evolving entertainment landscape.
In addition to his musical contributions, Tay Keith is also deeply involved in education. He’s an honorary professor at his alma mater, Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), and has established an internship program with DRUMATIZED. This program provides students with valuable industry experience, allowing them to learn from some of the top names in music production and business.
The Power of Mentorship and Community
What makes Tay Keith’s initiatives so impactful is his focus on mentorship and community. Whether it’s through music-mentorship camps, poetry challenges, or sneaker giveaways, his efforts highlight the importance of community support and positive reinforcement for young people.
Mentorship is one of the most powerful tools in helping young people unlock their potential. By surrounding them with experienced professionals and providing them with real-world skills, Keith and his team are helping to prepare the next generation for success, not just in music but in all areas of life.
Moreover, initiatives like the “My Memphis Poetry Challenge” and “Memphis Sole Resolution” show how small actions can have a big impact. Giving young people a voice, an audience, and the resources to succeed can help boost their confidence and creativity, laying the foundation for a brighter future.
A Bright Future for Memphis’ Youth
Tay Keith’s efforts to give back to Memphis are an inspiring example of how artists can use their platform to make a difference in their communities. Through events like the “My Memphis Poetry Challenge” and initiatives like “Memphis Sole Resolution,” Tay Keith is providing young people with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive creatively, professionally, and personally.
By continuing to support Memphis’ youth through mentorship, resources, and creative platforms, Tay Keith is helping to shape a new generation of artists, thinkers, and leaders. His work not only empowers young people in Memphis but serves as a model for how other artists can give back to their communities, creating lasting impact that extends far beyond the music industry.
As Memphis continues to grow as a hub for creativity and culture, initiatives like these will play a crucial role in nurturing the next wave of talent and ensuring that Memphis remains a vibrant, dynamic city for years to come.
