149 TIAN-XING STEPHENS Sophomore Tian-Xing Stephens chases his passions for music and fashion. Musical artist and clothing designer Tian-Xing Stephens, who went by the stage name T!AN, was a sophomore studying international business. From a young age, Stephens was a music and fashion enthusiast who wanted to pursue a career in both industries. When he was 10 years old, Stephens attended a summer camp that sparked his interest in the music and fashion industries. At the summer camp Stephens learned how to use audio editing software, which he used to create his music. “I remember the first song I made was called ‘Hater Computers,’ referencing computer brands that I believed were attempting to copy Apple,” Stephens said. “Even though I wouldn’t call that song a piece of art by any means, that weird little project is what sparked my imagination. Since then, I have been making music ever since, but not releasing a full song until this summer.” Stephens initially took a hip-hop approach when making his music, but later described his style as bleeding into an alternative rhythm and blues. Many Harding students enjoyed his single “Inglewood.” “I’ve been listening to it almost every day since he released it,” sophomore Bonnie Spann said. Despite only having one song published on music distribution platforms, many Harding students heard and shared it with others. “I love this song,” sophomore Anna Kate Massengale said. “I added it to three of my playlists, and whenever it comes on during shuffle, I, at least, listen to it two times through. I think he will absolutely grow in his music following. His music is produced with care, and his lyrics are very different, yet they have a familiar story to listeners.” Inspired by musical artists Frank Ocean and Tyler the Creator, who promote their clothing brands alongside their music, Stephens created his clothing brand called THIRD AVE VINTAGE. However, promoting his clothing brand was a lower priority due to his focus on music. “The vintage/thrift scene is popping, and that has helped a bunch, but I’ve been working so much on music that I haven’t been promoting as much as I should be,” Stephens said. “My clothing brand is different from most clothing brands associated with artists, and so I think that is unique in a sense, and I like that.” Stephens wanted to develop his two brands while attending school. Although he was excited to promote his thrifted clothing brand, Stephens sought to develop his music more before getting involved further with clothing. story by Sophia Toth T!AN TAKEOVER Spot it on Spotify! Tian-Xing Stephens poses for his latest album cover. Stephens developed his music and clothing brands simultaneously. | photo courtesy of Tian-Xing Stephens
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