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Vicksburg Rapper Tookie 3x signs record deal with Alamo Records
VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Rising hip-hop artist Marcus Randle, known by his stage name Tookie 3x, has officially signed a record deal with Alamo Records, marking a major milestone in his music career. The Vicksburg native signed the deal on July 1.
“It felt like all the hard work paid off, but it’s just the start,” Tookie said. “It’s time to invest back into myself.”
Tookie began recording music at age 13 and focuses on inspirational hip-hop aimed at uplifting young listeners.
“I want the youth to look up to me and realize that people can make music without promoting negativity,” he said.
A key part of his journey has been his partnership with manager Jermaine Smith Jr., also of Vicksburg. Smith discovered Tookie on Instagram and was immediately impressed by his sound.
“When I found him online, I thought he had already made it,” Smith said. “We connected and started working from there.”
Since teaming up, the duo has traveled to perform in major cities including Atlanta, Dallas, Shreveport, and Houston. Tookie’s recent freestyle featured on The Debut gained over 600,000 views on Facebook.
Smith, who has been involved in music for the past three years, admits he made mistakes early on but has since found his purpose in helping Tookie succeed. He now manages Tookie’s day-to-day schedule, helps coordinate performances, and plays an active role in creative decisions.
“I want to be able to take care of my family while doing something I love,” Smith said. “But more importantly, I want to open doors for others and give back to the community that raised us.”
Tookie has collaborated with fellow Vicksburg artists such as Lil Bailey, JonJon Lynn (J Walk), Li Sleepy, Trey, and Snapped. Despite his success, he remains grounded, especially after battling diabetes since childhood.
“I want to be an inspiration to those with disabilities,” he said. “When I was diagnosed, I thought it was over for me.”
Although Tookie and Smith have been making moves in the music industry, they paid homage to those who helped got them there.
“We want to give a shoutout to RonShotlt and his wife, Lil Sleep, J1 and Trey Snapped because we work with them daily,” the duo said.
Fans can be on the lookout for Tookie’s upcoming album which will be his first with Alamo Records.
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