[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 78 (Monday, May 6, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E445-E446]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING AARON DONTEZ YATES, TECH N9NE, FOR HIS ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN 
                           THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 6, 2024

  Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the 
extraordinary actions and success of an accomplished individual in 
Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, Aaron Dontez Yates, better 
known as his stage name Tech N9ne. Today, we join in recognition of the 
milestones he has achieved throughout his career in the music industry.
  Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, Tech N9ne embarked on a 
journey looking for ways in which he could express himself. From an 
early age, he began to rap, first using it as a method to learn and 
remember how to spell his name and later to release his inner thoughts 
and emotions. Before taking a leap of faith in seeking success on his 
own, he was part of the groups Black Mafia, 57th Street Rogue Dog 
Villains, and the Regime, where he began to get acquainted with the 
industry and would lead him to move forward in opening his own record 
label. Strange Music, with his business partner Travis O-Guin.
  With releases such as ``Anghellic'' and ``Everready (The Religion),'' 
his discography stands as a testament to his unparalleled talent and 
unwavering dedication to his craft. His talent and ability to create 
new rhythms and rhymes have not been overlooked and have instead 
garnered the attention of other acclaimed artists as well as solidified 
his status as a true pioneer in the world of hip-hop and rap. His 
success and unique approach have led to collaborations with artists 
Machine Gun Kelly, Lil Wayne, and Eminem among others. His love for his 
hometown is apparent through a now football season classic. ``Red 
Kingdom'', a love song to the Kansas City Chiefs

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as he remains an avid supporter of his local sports teams.
  Moreover, Tech N9ne's endeavors go beyond the music industry as he 
uses his platform to give back and better the lives of those who 
surround him. Through his work in philanthropy, Tech N9ne has provided 
support to organizations Habitat for Humanity, Harvesters Community 
Food Network as well as other organizations focusing on mental health 
awareness. His desire to improve and further help build his community 
in Kansas City, Missouri, is truly admirable and selfless.
  As we come together to celebrate the legacy that Tech N9ne has built 
and continues to build upon, it is important to emphasize that his 
influence is clearly visible among our community as he holds a 
compassion and commitment to address issues outside the music arena. He 
is not only leaving his mark in the music industry but also providing 
others, especially those in the Fifth District, with the inspiration, 
motivation, and model to pursue their passions while remaining engaged 
in helping improve the quality of life of others. Furthermore, Tech 
N9ne has become a symbol of our city and an example of the many 
talented and bright individuals that make our city our home.
  Mr. Speaker. I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing Tech 
N9ne for his tremendous accomplishments, contributions, and inspiration 
to others. On behalf of Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, I wish 
Tech N9ne congratulations on his well-deserved success and a continued 
journey filled with continued accomplishments, and fulfillment.

                          ____________________