Toya (singer) facts for kids

LaToya "Toya" Martin (born LaToya Lacole Rodriguez on July 22, 1983), known simply as Toya, is an American R&B singer. She is from St. Louis, Missouri. Toya is famous for her 2001 song, "I Do!!". This song became a big hit, reaching number 16 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Early Life and Education

Toya was born LaToya Lacole Rodriguez on July 22, 1983. Her father is Puerto Rican, and her mother is African American. She was named after the famous singer La Toya Jackson. Toya finished school at Mary Institute and St. Louis Country Day School in St. Louis County, Missouri.

Music Career Highlights

Toya's music career began when Courtney Benson and Tony Davis signed her to their company, Hit City Music Group. They also managed the well-known hip-hop star Nelly. They introduced Toya to Arista Records. The head of the label, L.A. Reid, quickly offered her a major record deal.

First Hit Song

Toya's first song, "I Do!!", was very successful on the music charts. This led to her first album, also called Toya, which came out in 2001. Her album appeared on the Billboard 200 chart. Her second single was "No Matta What (Party All Night)" in 2002.

Later Music Plans

In January 2011, Toya shared on Twitter that she wanted to record music again. In April 2013, she confirmed she was trying to make new music.

Personal Life

Toya is married to Tamaurice "Tee" Martin. He is a football coach for the Baltimore Ravens. Their son, Kaden Martin, was born on March 15, 2004. In 2012, Toya had another son named Cannon. She announced this on Twitter.

Discography

Albums

• 2001: Toya — US #109

Singles

Other Songs Featured On

• "Stick Out Ya Wrist" (with Nelly), from the XXX soundtrack (2002)
• "Same Ol Dirty" (with Murphy Lee), from Murphy's Law (2004)
• "I Had a Dream" (with Terror Time), from Hard Times in da Country (2006)

External links