Interviews Next Wave

Terry Milla Talks New Single “Learn Ya Bout Me” and More!

Hip-hop powerhouse Terry Milla is on a mission to drive positive change in and out of the music industry—crafting

By TCR Staff

February 11, 2025

Hip-hop powerhouse Terry Milla is on a mission to drive positive change in and out of the music industry—crafting stories rooted in authenticity and brimming with unmatched energy. An Atlanta hip-hop veteran, Terry began rapping in his early teenage years, building a career with notable placements, performances, and flourishing recognition. However, his path took a dramatic turn in 2007 when he faced a series of life-altering challenges. Despite enduring profound loss, physical injury, and financial hardships, Terry’s unshakable resolve propelled him forward. Remarkably, he channeled his struggles into a healing journey—eventually recovering while reigniting his passions for martial arts, wellness, and music. Moving forward, this transformative period influenced his approach to life and art, inspiring him to change the rap game and “Keep It 100%” in all of his pursuits.

Incredibly, the impact of Terry’s “never give up” mindset extends far beyond his music. Through his innovative entertainment company, 100 Trillion Entertainment, he aims to uplift fellow artists and creators. Its unique name is inspired by the 50-120 trillion cells in the human body, symbolizing the limitless potential and extraordinary power one carries within. As a firm believer in the tremendous capability of the mind and body, Terry leads by example in his ventures, encouraging others as a dedicated martial arts instructor at his gym, Warrior Garden Combat, and founder of the plant-based food provider Winner Winner Vegan. Whether through his expertly crafted hip-hop tracks, his entrepreneurial pursuits, or his work as a mentor and instructor, Terry Milla is a consistent, clever, and creative champion of empowerment.

Immersed in the hip-hop scene from a young age, Terry Milla refuses to let his years of expertise sideline him. Instead, he offers the community—and listeners from all walks of life—a glimpse into the paths that led him to stability and success. Playing on the southern slang often used by figures of authority, Terry plans to teach listeners a lesson—straight from a rapper who was rapping “before OutKast came out.” That is—a powerful lesson in resilience and determination. Set against a booming trap beat and dark, twisted melody, “Learn Ya Bout Me” carries an unexpected sense of vulnerability while staying true to his authentic Atlanta sound, as he recounts the struggles that inspired him to live a more holistic lifestyle and connect with his passions on a deeper level. By diving into his origins and setbacks—Terry spins the negative into the positive, reminding listeners that this OG rapper “can only go hard.” Having beaten “impossible odds,” Terry continues to prevail and defy expectations—proving that the door never really closes for a veteran artist with determination and talent like Terry.

The visuals in the “Learn Ya Bout Me” music video masterfully weave a triumphant narrative that brings the intensity and authenticity of Terry’s story to life on screen. Immediately, viewers are immersed in Terry’s world—finding him first in a familiar setting—rapping in the neon, ultraviolet wonderland of Mudnoc Studios. Beyond showcasing his lyrical prowess, this video reveals the depth and dimension of Terry as a multifaceted artist and person. The narrative effortlessly transitions from the studio to one of Terry’s other spheres: the martial arts gym. The scenes of Terry mentoring and practicing almost take on a “Rocky” -like feel, visually symbolizing Terry’s journey of perseverance and gradual climb towards healing. Eye-catching visual filters and flashes of x-rays and album covers add a layer of nostalgia and emotional resonance—creating a captivating timeline of the challenges he has faced and conquered. As a vivid, personal backdrop, the video invites viewers to step into Terry’s shoes—and feel both the weight of his journey and the joy of his accomplishments. In every frame, his unwavering determination shines through, making it impossible not to root for him as he continues to rise above adversity and redefine the measures of success in the music world and beyond.

Talk to us a little bit about your journey as a musician up to this point. What motivates you to make music?

Music helps me to be creative and channel my energy into something positive. My potna Dejuan, of Rabbitt Productions, said that “we as creators have the ability to create something today that didn’t exist the day before”. That’s powerful. I love that I can create something that can touch other people and that it will still be here when I leave this earth.

Can you tell us a little bit about your writing process for “Learn Ya Bout Me?” What was your experience like writing about deeply personal experiences?

I have mixed emotions about sharing my deeply personal experiences. I like to make songs from a genuine place and that’s as real as I can be. Another part of me isn’t very public at all and doesn’t want people to know my business. I feel like being truly genuine can help people tap into that place also so I went ahead and put it out there. I vowed to turn my “tragedies into triumphs” and that’s what this song is about.

During your production process, was there a specific sound you were hoping to achieve? What distinctive elements did you incorporate into this song?

I wanted to make something that DJ’s could mix on a playlist but still be unique. I’m learning piano so I added a melodic piano arpeggio over the heavy south drums and 808. I added distortion and other effects to make the drums and bass hit harder and filters to the pianos. I like some of the hip-hop production that’s out there but my album has other style tracks also. I don’t want to be “game locked” and put into a sound box so I experiment with different vibes.

The video is filmed in part at Mudnoc Studios and your martial arts gym, Warrior Garden Combat. What motivated you to set the music video in real places that are significant to you?

Using real places, people, and things that I do daily makes it more authentic. By showing the places I frequent and the things I do, I think the audience can connect with me better.

How does this music video help to converge your passions for martial arts, wellness, and music? How do these visuals help to amplify the themes and message of the song?

The video brings the abstract to life and “shows you better than I can tell you”. A song with the right visuals can give the listener a complete experience. I think the themes and message of this song are indeed amplified by the video. They both complement each other to tell my story.

Do you hope to inspire audiences with this song? If fans had to take away one message, what would it be?

I do hope to inspire others but only to find themselves and be themselves. My one message would be that you can and must rise above your circumstances. You may face “impossible odds” but there’s always a way to make your situation better.

What is one lesson you have learned in your musical career thus far that you can pass along to aspiring musicians?

The main lesson I would share with aspiring musicians is to be authentic. In a world that financially rewards copycats it seems like that’s crazy but the real legends are all original, innovative, and genuine. You are “1 in 7.5 billion” which means you are rare, and rarity has automatic value. There’s only one you so be you to the fullest.

Do you hope to release tracks like “Learn Ya Bout Me” in future projects? What projects do you hope to work on next?

I will definitely bring realness and authenticity to everything I do but I’m not trying to make a song over exactly, unless it’s a remix. I strive to make a balanced and complete project that has different moods and vibes. Music is the soundtrack of life and life has many aspects so I aim to make something for each. My new album, “Off Tha Leash” will be released later this year. I have 2 more singles that will follow this one before that. I’m working with other producers, musicians, and artists also. I know that we will be creating something great. My plant based foods company, Winner Winner Vegan, will be deploying the “Tea of Immortality” & “Bliss Brownies” to more stores this year (winnerwinnervegan.com) and the gates of Warrior Garden Combat & Fitness (warriorgarden.net) are always open for those who are ready to train.