Cortez an undeniably gifted artist, Cortez “Tez” McClain has been grabbing the attention of music’s most prominent figures since his youth. Hailing from Atlanta, the South’s renowned music capital, Tez has established himself as a multi-talented artist with a natural, charismatic stage presence.

Since parting ways with his former rap group and adopting the nickname “Brand Name”, as a solo artist Tez McClain’s popularity has been steadily on the rise. Tez has claimed titles at several talent showcases while performing at many popular venues in the Southeast. After captivating the ears of some of Atlanta’s industry elite, Tez began working with accomplished producers and executives including DTP’s Chaka Zulu, LT-Moe, Maestro and Focus.

The rapper’s first single, “I’m Fly” garnered regional attention, leading to appearances on a variety of mixtapes and consistent club plays. “I’m Fly” eventually won the Hot 107.9 Battleground contest so many consecutive times that it officially retired with the title of Battleground Champion, with Tez achieving the same title again in 2009 for “Booty Call.” Tez went on to have two appearances on MTV’s Sucker Free Sunday’s, and ultimately won the Mountain Dew Sucker Free Challenge – all while attending college full-time.

After graduating, Tez released his mixtape, Wishful Thinking Vol. 1, alongside fellow CAU alumnus, DJ Don Cannon. Getting rave reviews and write ups, Wishful Thinking Vol. 1 was featured on several blogs and websites such as XXLMag.com, HipHopdx.com, AllHipHop.com, and SlamOnline.com, among others. Unconstrained, the Atlanta-native performed on stages across the nation during the Back to the Future Tour opening for Opio (of legendary group Souls of Mischief) and Bay Area artist Mistah F.A.B.

Tez’s latest single, “Jordans & and Gold Chain” further declares his “Brand Name.” Reaping thousands of views and listens, the song is a glaring example of Tez’s ability to deliver contemporary messages in a way that continues to appeal to fans.

“I like to have an emotional connection with my listeners. I want to talk to them like I know what they’re going through. I believe that, in an emotional aspect, everybody goes through the same things. Everybody’s felt shame, love, happiness, guilt, doubt, and lust.”

Tez is presently working on his next mixtape, Wishful Thinking Vol. 2: Respect My Grind (RMG). The mixtape, to be released in early 2012, will feature G.O.O.D Music’s Cyhi The Prynce, among others. In 2012, Tez McClain is sure to flood the scene as he upholds his trademark as a brand name.