Rho Slay was born & raised in Detroit, MI

Roshonda "Rho Slay" Smith developed a passion for music at an early age, participating in marching band and concert band throughout grade school, high school, and college. Her dedication to music earned her five music scholarships and the opportunity to perform on the drumline in the SWAAC at Alabama A&M University.

Her love for the rich musical traditions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) inspired an appreciation for programs such as Alabama A&M University, Tennessee State University, Norfolk State University, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and Kentucky State University.

During the summer months, Rho Slay found purpose in giving back by teaching one-on-one music theory and percussion lessons to students ages 10–18. Through mentorship and education, she has helped inspire young musicians while sharing the knowledge and opportunities that shaped her own journey.

 

"I felt it was important to help those coming up in music at an early age. Teaching music theory and percussion to young students is something I will always be grateful for because it allows me to give back and inspire the next generation." — Rho Slay

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ACCOMPLISHMENTS

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• 2019 Produced 4 tracks for a Contemporary Gospel EP

• Started a 501c(3) non-profit organization teaching music & media to the youth, working with Judge Mathis' youth group in Detroit, MI.

• ​Radio play on mainstream radio stations, including Praise Detroit and Radio One platforms. ​

• 2020 Achieved a viral placement with the song Sorry on Voisey.

• 2021 Music license opportunities shopped contracts for Real Housewives of Atlanta, Amazon, & Shahs of Sunset. ​

• 2023 Founded Rho Slay Beats LLC

• Featured in Bold Journey Magazine and Voyage Michigan Magazine.

• Released a Dance Beat Tape Album titled "Movement."

• 2024 Served as Music Composer for the TV/Film web series "All These Legos, All These Leftovers, and All These Lattes" by Rebel Worthy Productions.

• ​Joined a team of Collective producers, "The Dvision"​

• Signed to Grammy-Nominated Producer FigurezMadeIt 

• Produced 4 tracks on the album "25" for artist Faame Emanuel

• In 2025 Nonprofit organization received both a Kresge Arts Professional Development Award and Black Leaders Detroit (BLD) Grant.

• Released the instrumental beat album "Drugs & Hugs."

• Featured in a live interview with Choff at Shoebox Studios.

• 2026 Interviewed by actor and producer Lorenzo LeonardSelf Help (2015), Creed || (2018), and Into Tartarus (2017) at Riverside Studios as part of the Los Angeles Film School Honor Society.