Los Angeles artist CTBuddha (CTB) carries a story shaped by survival, self-discovery, and a voice unlike anyone else. Born and raised in South Central, he grew up as the oldest of eleven siblings. With both parents absent, his grandparents stepped in and became the foundation of his upbringing. Even with family around, CTB often felt like he didn’t quite fit in—quiet, different, and constantly navigating trouble while searching for his place in the world.
Basketball was his first love, but music found him early. He used to sing while playing outside with friends, and their moms would ask him to sing over and over again. That was the first hint of something special. Still, it wasn’t until he turned 18 that he began creating his own music. His openness to all genres—jazz, country, and everything in between—came from his mother, who taught him to embrace every kind of sound.
Today, CTB is building an identity rooted in originality. If he had to describe his sound, he wouldn’t compare it to anyone. He wants his name to stand alone when people talk about personalized flows. “I created my own,” he says. No disrespect to anyone before him—he simply refuses to be a copy.
He records at RZN Studios and The Red Room Studios, sharpening the voice he’s steadily growing into. Much of his life was spent surrounded by family—big cousins, uncles, whoever was moving, he was right there with them. That closeness helped shape the loyalty he carries today.
CTB’s latest single, “Walk Mail,” is a personal milestone. Now working for the United States Postal Service, he celebrates the idea that someone from South Central—someone who’s faced real adversity—can elevate, stay out the way, make money, and keep their name solid. It’s proof that growth is possible, no matter where you start.
He’s currently working on another single and gearing up for his debut album, a project that will introduce listeners to the full story behind the man and the music.
Through it all, CTB stays grounded in gratitude. He gives thanks to God for being the reason he’s here, to his daughters for giving him strength, to his girl for unwavering support, and to his grandparents for raising him. And above everyone, he salutes the family members who stayed solid from beginning to now.
