When Billboard-charting hip-hop artist Tyrone “Tyke T” Stroble stepped into the studio for his latest project, he didn’t go alone. His co-star was pint-sized, brimming with rhythm and already a natural leader. It was his 4-year-old son, Avery. Together, the two created “Tyrone Avery,” a father-and-son rap duo born out of one simple potty-training rhyme.
What began as a playful mother-and-son tune, “Keep ’em dry, keep ’em clean” grew into a catchy anthem once Tyke T jumped in, transforming the sing-song into “Dry and Clean.” From there, the spark was undeniable.
Their debut project, released in time for Avery’s August 27 birthday, blends the innocent sounds of a child’s rhymes with the artistry of a Memphis hip-hop veteran.
“Recording ‘Dry and Clean’ was actually a joke at first,” Tyke T recalls. “It wasn’t anything meant to be serious. But when Avery started picking it up and actually rapping to the beat, I decided to really see what he could do. And that’s how it happened.”
What followed was not just music, but a new rhythm for their family.
“It’s been refreshing working with my son,” Tyke T says. “To see him from where he was at 2 years old recording and now at 4 — how he can just hop on the beat — is remarkable.”
Not many kids get to throw a birthday party with their own music as the soundtrack. But Avery’s celebration the Saturday before his big day featured friends, family and his own tracks playing through the speakers.
Beyond the music, being in the studio with his son also became about creating a space where they could laugh, experiment and connect. “This became our father-son time,” Tyke T reflects. “I’ve gotten a little older, so I may not pick up a basketball the way I used to play. This is something I can do with Avery for as long as he is having fun doing it. There is no expectation from me beyond him having fun.”
Music runs deep in the Stroble family. Avery’s mother, Amber, sings in the church choir, while Tyke T has carved out a lane in the industry with more than 120 placements on shows like “All American,” “Power” and “Love & Hip Hop Atlanta.” In 2023, Forbes spotlighted his independent momentum after his historic headlining show at Memphis’s Orpheum Theater, where Middle Tennessee State University honored him with an “Honorary Professorship” for his impact on music education and community.
Having Avery in the mix has also broadened Tyke T’s outlook. “Having a kid has given me more topics and different things to talk about,” he says. “Being a father puts you in a different conversation. Before I had a kid, there were things I didn’t understand, like the desire to do the things that ensure your child has a better life than you, and they don’t have to struggle.”
The track “2 of Us” is one example of that broadened conversation. It is a heartfelt affirmation expressed by Tyke T and Avery of the incredible bond between father and son.
Avery isn’t just a sidekick. He’s hands-on, with a love for drumming, painting and soccer, and a natural flair for performance. His energy shines through every track, making “Tyrone Avery” a genuine collaboration.
When asked what he likes best about being a recording artist, Avery didn’t hesitate: “I like rapping with Daddy.” He grinned when asked about his favorite song. “‘Dry and Clean.’ It’s so much fun because we recorded it.”
The six-song album includes “Dry and Clean,” which dropped in December, and the Father’s Day single “2 of Us.” The beats and rhythm reflect a family rhythm: Mom is the first listener, dad is the producer and Avery brings the spark.
At the end of the day, this latest release may be Tyke T’s most meaningful project yet. The full album stands as a testament to parenthood and the irreplaceable value of father-son time.
“If it lands us a spot on ‘The Jennifer Hudson Show,’ that would be great,” Tyke T reflects. “But right now, it just feels good to have something my son and I can listen to from now on and know we created it together.”
