Tapped by Jay-Z’s Label, R&B Star Tia Gold Readies ‘Uplifting’ New Record

Ashkan Roayaee
Tapped by Jay-Z’s Label, R&B Star Tia Gold Readies ‘Uplifting’ New Record

R&B SINGER AND songwriter Tia Gold, 28, who is among the rising-star artists featured in the new issue of Houston CityBook, may call Houston home, but she's equally at home at Jay-Z's leviathan record label Roc Nation, which manages top artists like Rihanna, J. Cole and fellow Houstonian Megan Thee Stallion.


Signed as a songwriter after Jay-Z was sent one of her demos, Gold flew back and forth to L.A. frequently pre-Covid. And while she may not be as well traveled this year, it's serving her well: She's released two singles, "SOS" and "Answer," from a cheerful forthcoming 10-track project.

"I was listening to a lot of brighter and uplifting music during the pandemic," says Gold of her inspiration for the album. "If I was looking for that, I realized other people were probably looking for the same thing."

Gold's new portrait and comments appear in the spring edition of CityBook, which is the magazine's fifth annual Music Issue. Queer hip-hop artist Nate Drop, swing fiddler Ellen Story, Houston Grand Opera bass Cory McGee, busy singer-guitarist Andy Mac, retro crooner Marley Moon, and Tejano starlet Amanda Solis are also featured in the annual portfolio, photographed by Ashkan Roayaee, with styling by Todd Ramos and hair and makeup by Edward Sanchez.

Art + Entertainment
Leadership in Action: Clothiers Murry and Karen Penner Celebrate Family Business’ 50-Year Anny

Murry & Karen Penner, Owners, M PENNER

How did you get where you are today? We’ve stayed true to the vision of the store’s founder, Morris Penner, who relentlessly sought out unique product, with exceptional quality being a key element. Morris always used to say, “The fastest way to lose a customer is to bore him” and we agree. A percentage of every season’s budget is allocated to something new and unique. While product is key, it’s not enough. Having an excellent staff and discipline in business practices is also critical.

Keep Reading Show less

Kathryn Lott, Guy Hagstette and Barry Mandel

EVERY TWO YEARS, some of Houston's best-known names and most generous patrons descend upon Downtown's Discovery Green park for a night of dinner, dancing and art-admiring.

Keep Reading Show less
Parties

Brasserie 19

THE RODEO OFFICIALLY opens on March 4, but Houston restaurants have already started saddling up with specials! So boot-scoot on over to one of these restaurants to savor the Texas tradition.

Keep Reading Show less
Food