Aaron Dontez Yates, born November 8, 1971, popularly goes by his stage name Tech N9ne (pronounced tech nine). He is an American rapper and singer who is known for his very fast rapping style. In 1999, N9ne and his business partner Travis O’Guin founded the record label Strange Music. Over the course of his career, Tech N9ne has released 22 albums and has sold over two million copies. He has also had his music featured in film, television, and video games. Join us as we celebrate this inspirational rapper and singer!
Fast Facts
Full Name:
Aaron Dontez Yates
Nickname:
Tech N9ne
Birth date:
November 8, 1971
Age:
53
Zodiac Sign:
Scorpio
Height:
5' 7"
Relationship Status:
Divorced
Net Worth:
$8.5 million
Background
Aaron Dontez Yates, well-known as Tech N9ne, was born on November 8, 1971, in Kansas City, Missouri. He began rapping at a very early age and would rap the letters of his name to remember how to spell it. His father, Carlton Cook, was estranged from the family and his mother suffered from epilepsy and lupus when he was a child. His mother’s condition emotionally affected him and inspired him to search for God. Early in his career, Tech N9ne was a member of a group called Black Mafia. He saw glimpses of success in the group 57th Street Rogue Dog Villians with their single ‘Let’s Get F***ed Up.’ In 1993, Tech N9ne signed with Perspective Records and became a member of the group Nnutthowze. However, the group disbanded soon after being released from the label.
In 2001, Tech N9ne released the studio album “Anghellic” with J.C.O.R. Records. After disputes arose about the promotion of the album, Tech N9ne and his label severed ties with J.C.O.R., and struck a deal that allowed them to keep the rights to the album. The following year, he released “Absolute Power,” under a 50–50 joint venture between Strange Music and M.S.C. Music & Entertainment. The album debuted at number 79 on the Billboard 200, and sales tripled following a campaign, “F.T.I.,” which was started by the rapper and his label.
Tech N9ne has released many successful albums and singles in the 2000s and 2010s. In 2018, he released “Planet,” making this his 20th studio album. In 2019, Tech N9ne released “N9na,” making this his 21st studio album. Nearly a year later, in 2020, he released his 22nd album, “Enterfear.” In 2021, Tech N9ne released an album titled “Asin9ne.”
Career timeline
Tech N9ne becomes a member of the Black Mafia group.
Tech N9ne features on Sway & King Tech's song 'The Anthem' with other great artists.
Tech N9ne releases the album "Killer" and sells over a million copies.
'Give It All' from the album “Special Effects” is used during ‘Inside the N.B.A.'s Tip-Off for Game Four’ of the Eastern Conference Finals.
Tech N9ne releases the album “Asin9ne,” which features big names such as Lil Wayne, Mumu Fresh, Snow Tha Product, Russ, E-40, and X-Raided.
Why We Love Tech N9ne
He supports Kansas city culture
Tech N9ne is an avid supporter of Kansas City culture. He also supports the metro area's pro sports teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, and Sporting Kansas City.
He is smart
With the boom in illegal downloads, Tech N9ne had an idea. He encouraged his fans to officially download "Absolute Power" for free, which increased the number of his listeners.
He gave us a gift
Tech N9ne gave us a great gift! Dwayne Johnson revealed Tech N9ne tapped him to collaborate on the single 'FACE OFF,' which also features Joey Cool and King Iso.
5 Surprising Facts
He was raised by his granny
Tech N9ne was raised by his grandmother who played the piano, however, her style was more religious.
He hid his music
His formal introduction to rap was when his uncle gave him a record called ‘Rap Dirty’ by Blowfly, but his grandmother wouldn't let him listen to rap, so he hid all his records in his friend’s basement.
He’s a contest winner
Tech N9ne won a rap contest, and the prize was opening for E.P.M.D.
His music features in video games
Several of his songs are featured in video games, such as Madden N.F.L. 2006, The Crew, E.A. Sports M.M.A., 25 to Life, and W.W.E. 2K18, among others.
He’s a game character
In Midnight Club: Los Angeles, Tech N9ne is an unlockable character.
Tech N9ne FAQs
Is Tech N9ne the fastest rapper?
No, he is not but he comes in as the seventh-fastest rapper ever.
Does Tech N9ne have children?
Yes, he has three children with his ex-wife Lecoya LeJuene.
Why does Tech N9ne wear a mask?
The rapper has sported face paint since 1994, when his friend, Brian Dennis, applied the design for the first time. Tech N9ne has worn it since to honor Dennis, who sadly passed away. Wearing a facial covering on stage also helps him overcome his shyness.
Tech N9ne’s birthday dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | November 8 | Saturday |
2026 | November 8 | Sunday |
2027 | November 8 | Monday |
2028 | November 8 | Wednesday |
2029 | November 8 | Thursday |