T3 of Slum Village

T3, born R.L. Altman II, is a rapper, producer, and the enduring pillar of Detroit’s iconic hip-hop group Slum Village. Emerging in the late '90s alongside founding members J Dilla and Baatin, T3 helped shape the group’s signature soulful, off-kilter sound that became a cornerstone of underground hip-hop. Following the tragic losses of Dilla (2006) and Baatin (2009), T3 carried Slum Village’s legacy forward, blending their jazz-infused beats with introspective lyricism while mentoring new generations of artists. Over the years, he’s balanced solo projects with group efforts, always rooted in Detroit’s collaborative spirit.

Recently, T3’s dropped gems like *Things We Lost* and *Once Upon a Time*, showcasing his knack for storytelling and dusty, sample-driven production. His *3illa Madness* series—including instrumental versions and the *3iller* compilations—highlights his curatorial ear, often spotlighting Motor City collaborators. Whether nodding to SV’s golden era or pushing boundaries, T3 remains a low-key legend, bridging hip-hop’s past and present without losing that hometown grit.

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