The world of UK rap has long been intertwined with street life, crime, and the struggles of the working class. In a revealing episode of the Criminal Connection Podcast, UK rapper Tee Trizz, also known as the "King of Islington," sheds light on his turbulent past, from growing up in North London to becoming one of the most well-known figures in the underground scene. His journey is one of survival, resilience, and ultimately, redemption.
Growing Up in Islington: A Life of Struggles
Tee Trizz was raised in Islington, North London, in a single-parent household. His mother, a hardworking woman from a traveler background, did everything she could to provide for her children. Despite their financial struggles, she ensured that food was always on the table. His father, however, was mostly absent, popping in and out of their lives.
With a large family and limited resources, Tee Trizz spent much of his teenage years at his grandmother’s house. She bore the brunt of his chaotic youth, watching as he got deeper into the streets.
Early Days of Crime: From Bikes to Business
Tee Trizz's foray into crime began early. At just 10 or 11 years old, he started stealing motorbikes with friends from different estates. At first, it was just for fun—joyriding, doing wheelies, and racing through the streets. However, the thrill soon turned into a business opportunity.
By the age of 11, he had begun selling cannabis, looking up to older figures in his area who made money through illegal activities. His entrepreneurial spirit kicked in, and he started growing his operation, attracting loyal customers by providing top-quality products without dilution.
The Drug Game: Expansion and Rivalries
By 14, Tee Trizz had moved beyond cannabis and into the cocaine trade. He strategically built a loyal customer base by offering the purest product and undercutting competitors. His reputation grew, and so did his profits.
His operation was meticulous. Unlike many others, he avoided using young kids to run drugs for him. Instead, he managed his own supply chain, ensuring he maximized profits while minimizing risks.
However, success in the drug trade comes with enemies. Rivals from different estates in North London and beyond saw his rise as a threat. This led to violent confrontations, including multiple attempts on his life.
Near-Death Experiences: Stabbings and Shootings
Throughout his teenage years and early 20s, Tee Trizz faced multiple life-threatening encounters. One of the most terrifying incidents involved an infamous figure in Islington, known for kidnapping drug dealers and torturing them for information.
At just 12 years old, Tee Trizz had a run-in with this dangerous individual, who held a knife to his back and interrogated him about his connections. He managed to escape, but the experience left a lasting impact.
Years later, he was stabbed in the leg while socializing in Camden. A group of 15 men surrounded him, and one of them plunged a knife into his leg. Another time, he was shot in Cricklewood while attending a barbecue. The bullet lodged in his rib, leading to the removal of part of his ribcage.
The Turning Point: Legal Troubles and Mental Health Struggles
Despite years of dodging the law, Tee Trizz’s luck ran out when he was arrested for illegally purchasing a firearm through the dark web. Although he initially bought it for protection, law enforcement had been monitoring him and eventually raided his home. He was placed under investigation for four years before being sentenced to a suspended sentence and two years on a tag.
The stress of constant threats, legal troubles, and near-death experiences took a toll on his mental health. He developed PTSD, severe anxiety, and depression. At first, he didn’t understand what was happening. He suffered from panic attacks, cold sweats, and uncontrollable mood swings. Eventually, his family urged him to seek help.
However, the treatment he received was far from ideal. He was prescribed multiple medications, including antidepressants and antipsychotics, which only worsened his condition. Feeling like a zombie, he eventually decided to stop taking them and found his own way to manage his mental health.
Finding Redemption Through Music
Amidst the chaos, music became Tee Trizz’s saving grace. Channeling his pain and experiences into lyrics, he found an outlet for his emotions. He adopted a unique persona, wearing a balaclava to maintain anonymity and privacy.
His music resonated with fans who had been through similar struggles. Through rap, he was able to tell his story authentically while also shedding light on the realities of street life.
A New Mission: Guiding the Youth Away from Crime
Now, Tee Trizz is focused on using his platform to steer young people away from the streets. Partnering with figures like Marvin Herbert, he actively speaks out against gang culture, offering alternative paths such as music, boxing, and entrepreneurship.
He believes that many young people, like himself, get caught up in crime not because they want to but because they feel they have no other choice. By sharing his story, he hopes to inspire others to make better decisions and avoid the pitfalls of street life.
What’s Next for Tee Trizz?
Tee Trizz continues to make music, with upcoming releases including The Godfathers and Dip Splash featuring Bandokay. He is also working on a documentary about his life and experiences.
His message is clear: never give up. No matter how dark things get, there is always a way out. He encourages young people to focus on their passions, stay away from crime, and build a future they can be proud of.
Final Thoughts: Lessons from a Life on the Edge
Tee Trizz’s story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of street life but also an inspiring testament to resilience and transformation. From a young entrepreneur in the drug trade to a rising star in UK rap, he has managed to turn his life around despite the odds stacked against him.
His journey serves as a reminder that no matter where you come from, you always have the power to change your future. With the right mindset, support system, and determination, anyone can break free from a life of crime and find success on their own terms.