# Tave

John Fred (born June 23, 2010), known popularly as Tave and also by the name Mike Matessino, is an American Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter. Despite his young age, Tave has already made a significant impact in the music industry with his talent and viral presence on platforms like TikTok. Born to Nigerian parents, Tave blends cultural influences into his music, contributing to his growing popularity across various audiences.

## Early Life

Tave was born as John Fred on June 23, 2010, in Norfolk, Virginia, United States, to Nigerian parents. He was raised in a culturally enriched household that exposed him to diverse musical influences. When Tave was 10 years old, his family moved to London, which played a key role in shaping his musical career. The transition from Virginia to London not only broadened his cultural outlook but also introduced him to a more diverse music scene, where he began refining his unique style that combines pop, R&B, and African influences.
Tave first gained significant attention on TikTok, where his engaging and creative videos quickly resonated with a global audience. One of his videos went viral, gaining over a million views within just two minutes of posting. This viral moment catapulted him into the spotlight, with more people discovering his musical talents. His ability to connect with fans through his online content helped establish Tave as an emerging artist with potential for great success in the music industry.

## Musical Career

Tave’s musical journey took off as he began releasing original songs that showcased his powerful vocals, catchy melodies, and insightful lyrics. His singles "No More Maybes" and "Difference Now" quickly gained popularity, further solidifying his place as a rising star. His sound is a fusion of pop, R&B, and Afrobeats, the latter being influenced by his Nigerian roots. The themes of his songs often center on love, self-reflection, and growth, which have made him a relatable and inspiring figure for many listeners.
Tave’s undeniable talent did not go unnoticed, and he earned a Grammy nomination, a major milestone in his career at such a young age. This recognition reflects both his hard work and the impact he has made in the music industry in a relatively short period of time. With a promising future ahead, Tave is expected to release more music, further establishing himself in the global music scene.

## Discography

Tave has released several songs that have been well-received by his growing fanbase. Some of his notable tracks include:
* "No More Maybes" (2024)
* "Difference Now" (2024)

## Legacy and Impact

Tave's rise to fame at such a young age speaks to his talent, hard work, and the power of social media in launching careers. His Grammy nomination demonstrates his exceptional abilities as a musician, while his viral success highlights the influence of platforms like TikTok in helping emerging artists gain recognition. As Tave continues to blend cultural influences into his music, he stands out in the pop and R&B genres, poised for even greater success in the years to come.

## Awards and recognition

| Year | Title | Category | Result | Re |
| 2025 | Grammy Awards | Best historical album | Nominated | |