The Rise of Tory Lanez in the R&B Scene
His music makes you want to go on the road and keep driving
In today’s R&B landscape, few artists have blended melodic storytelling and genre-bending versatility quite like Tory Lanez. Known for his smooth vocals, experimental flair, and raw emotional delivery, Lanez quickly carved out a space for himself among the genre’s top talents. Despite both critical acclaim and controversy, his impact on modern R&B remains undeniable.
Who Is Tory Lanez?
Born Daystar Shemuel Shua Peterson on July 27, 1992, in Brampton, Ontario, Tory Lanez emerged from the Canadian underground scene by dropping self-produced mixtapes in the early 2010s. His breakout moment came with the release of his 2016 debut album, I Told You, which featured the double-platinum single “Say It.”
Lanez’s sound—a fusion of R&B, hip-hop, pop, and even Caribbean influences—immediately distinguished him from his peers. His ear for melody, combined with emotionally resonant lyrics, helped him build a diverse and passionate global fan base.
The Rise to Fame
Following his debut, Lanez released a steady stream of projects, each showcasing different facets of his artistry. His 2018 sophomore album, Memories Don’t Die, featured tracks like “Shooter,” “B.I.D.” and “Pieces,” further blending trap and soul into a sound uniquely his own.
But it was 2020’s The New Toronto 3 and his genre-defying Chixtape 5—a nostalgic ode to early 2000s R&B—that truly spotlighted his ability to reimagine classic sounds while pushing the boundaries of modern R&B production.
Collaborations with artists such as Chris Brown, Bryson Tiller, Meek Mill, Kehlani, and T-Pain further cemented his place in the mainstream.
Impact on R&B
Tory Lanez has contributed to R&B’s evolution by bridging eras—modernizing ‘90s and early 2000s vibes through his Chixtape series while embracing futuristic production and vocal stylings. His impact is felt especially among artists who blend hip-hop flows with R&B textures, a blueprint he’s helped refine.
He’s also been praised for his prolific output and DIY mentality—frequently releasing full-length projects, EPs, and live sessions with minimal label interference.
What Sets Tory Lanez Apart?
1. Genre Versatility
Lanez thrives across a wide musical spectrum. One project might be rap-heavy (The New Toronto), while the next leans deep into R&B or pop (Alone at Prom, a retro-pop/R&B homage). His vocal agility and production range make him a rare hybrid artist.
2. DIY Creativity and Work Ethic
From directing his own visuals to writing and producing much of his catalog, Lanez is hands-on with every part of the creative process. His Quarantine Radio livestream during the pandemic also showed his ability to connect directly with fans and go viral through unconventional means.
Controversy and Career Fallout
It’s impossible to discuss Lanez’s rise without addressing the controversy surrounding the 2020 shooting incident involving rapper Megan Thee Stallion. In December 2022, Lanez was convicted on three felony counts related to the shooting and later sentenced in 2023 to a 10-year prison term.
The incident sparked massive discourse around accountability, gender dynamics in the music industry, and the way celebrity influences public opinion. It also significantly impacted his career—leading to public backlash, pulled festival bookings, and dropped brand deals.
Legacy and Future
While Tory Lanez's contributions to R&B remain influential, his future in the industry is uncertain. His discography showcases undeniable talent, but the gravity of his legal troubles has altered his trajectory.
The conversation around his career has become a larger reflection on how the industry treats artists with legal and moral controversies, and what it means to separate art from artist.
Conclusion
Tory Lanez’s rise in R&B is a story of creativity, hustle, and undeniable talent—but also one marked by controversy and consequence. He has played a role in shaping the sound of modern R&B, blending genres and innovating across projects. Yet his legacy will always be viewed through a complicated lens.
As the R&B landscape continues to evolve, Lanez’s musical footprint will remain—both as a testament to his artistry and a cautionary tale of personal choices colliding with public acclaim.
Caramanica, J. (2020, November 23). Tory Lanez, Megan Thee Stallion and the limits of rap fandom. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com
Moore, S. (2019, November 20). Tory Lanez’s Chixtape 5 shows R&B’s nostalgic power. Complex. https://www.complex.com/music/tory-lanez-chixtape-5-review
Trust, G. (2016, August 8). Tory Lanez earns his first Billboard Hot 100 hit with “Say It.” Billboard. https://www.billboard.com
Blistein, J. (2023, August 8). Tory Lanez sentenced to 10 years in prison for shooting Megan Thee Stallion. Rolling Stone. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/tory-lanez-sentenced-megan-thee-stallion-shooting-1234800789/