Toya (singer) facts for kids

LaToya "Toya" Martin (born LaToya Lacole Rodriguez; July 22, 1983), known simply as Toya, is an American R&B singer. She is from St. Louis, Missouri. Toya is most famous for her 2001 song, "I Do!!". This song was very popular and reached number 16 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 music chart.

Early Life and Education

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

Toya's Music Career

Toya's music journey began when Courtney Benson and Tony Davis signed her to their company, Hit City Music Group. These two also worked with the famous hip-hop artist Nelly. They helped Toya get a big record deal with Arista Records. The head of the label, L.A. Reid, signed her right away.

Her first song, "I Do!!", became a huge hit. It helped her release her first album, also called Toya, in the same year. This album appeared on the Billboard 200 chart. Her second single was "No Matta What (Party All Night)", released in 2002.

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

Personal Life and Family

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

Toya's Music: Albums and Songs

Albums Released

• 2001: Toya — This album reached number 109 in the U.S.

Popular Songs (Singles)

Other Songs Toya Appeared On

• "Stick Out Ya Wrist" (with Nelly), from the XXX movie 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)