Tre-8: The Underground Pioneer of New Orleans Rap
- Nolazine
- Jan 28, 2024
- 2 min read
In the tapestry of New Orleans hip-hop history, Tre-8, born Walter McCallon, stands as a pivotal figure, recognized not only for his early contributions to the rap scene but also for his resilience and dedication to his craft. Born and raised in the Christopher Homes development in Algiers, Tre-8's journey from the local to the national stage left an indelible mark on the city's rap legacy.
As a high school student, Tre-8's musical inclinations were evident as he played in the marching bands of L.B. Landry and O. Perry Walker high schools. His foray into the world of recording began as a member of the group WestBank Coalition, a collective that included the budding artist, then known as MC P. The group, comprising talents like J' Ro' J, Ice Mike, and T. Smooth, laid the groundwork for Tre-8's solo endeavors.
In 1995, at the age of 16, Tre-8 became one of the first artists to release an album under Master P's No Limit/Priority Records partnership. His debut solo album, "Ghetto Stories," showcased his lyrical prowess and earned him a spot on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart at #84. Despite parting ways with No Limit, Tre-8 continued to shape his musical narrative, releasing albums like "Dey Scared of Me" (1997) on Smoke 1 Records and "Nuttin But Drama" (1998) in collaboration with South Coast Music Group.
Tre-8's collaboration with his mentor and friend, producer and rapper Ice Mike, produced memorable albums such as "Slammin Theez Hoez," "Ghetto," "Do 'em Dirty," and "True 2 da Game." His versatility was evident not only in solo releases but also in collaborations with artists like Bigg Herb, the Ghetto Twiinz, and the Code 6 LP "Let's Go Get'Em."
In the intricate web of Tre-8's personal life, he was married to fellow New Orleans rapper Cicely Crawford McCallon, known as Ju'C in the early 1990s. Tragically, she was shot to death in 2009, adding layers of personal loss to Tre-8's journey.
On May 28, 2011, Tre-8's life was cut short due to complications from a car accident in Algiers, Louisiana. His passing marked a profound loss for the New Orleans underground rap community and left fans around the world mourning the departure of a true pioneer.
In remembrance of Tre-8, we revisit one of his most underground releases, the tape-only album titled "Ruff Rugid & Raw" under the Smoke 1 Click. The album stands as a testament to Tre-8's grit, authenticity, and contribution to the raw essence of New Orleans hip-hop.
Tre-8's legacy lives on through his discography and the impact he made on the city's rap culture. As fans continue to revisit his work, Tre-8 remains an enduring figure, a symbol of the vibrant and resilient spirit that defines New Orleans hip-hop.