Texas has long stood at the forefront of global culture, and we decided it’s time to shine a spotlight on some of the city’s most impactful voices. With its rich blend of innovation, music, film, food, entrepreneurship, and more, narrowing down our list was no easy feat. But after careful consideration, we’re proud to unveil the SMN100 — a celebration of the trailblazers shaping the future of Texas.
What is SMN100?
The SMN100 is an all-new, yearly roundup celebrating the entrepreneurs, creators, and innovators who are transforming the way we experience and enjoy our free time.
The categories for winners include:
- Food & Drink
- Arts & Culture
- Experiential & Sport
- Pioneers
How did we choose the winners of SMN100?
Secret Media Network is in a one-of-a-kind position, powered by a team of local insiders who live and breathe the cities they represent. They create hyper-local guides to help you and your friends make the most of your free time—wherever you are. And because they’re deeply rooted in their communities, they’re also perfectly equipped to recognize the people making waves locally.
To bring even more voices into the mix, the SMN100 reserved a few spots in each category for the Public’s Pick—nominated through a nationwide online survey.
With input from our global team of city experts and everyday voices from across the country, the SMN100 is a curated celebration of those shaping how we live, explore, and connect.
Teezo Touchdown Makes the SMN100 List
Born in Beaumont, Texas, Teezo Touchdown is a rising star in hip-hop and icon in the making. With influences ranging from Marvin Gaye to Kraftwerk and Judas Priest, Teezo’s music transcends genre – blending hip-hop with the likes of pop-punk, power pop, and emo.
Using his father’s DJ equipment, Teezo started making music in high school releasing music on YouTube through under various monikers.
His first breakthrough came with the release of his track 100 Drums in 2019, a track that sampled Panic! At The Disco’s I Write Sins Not Tragedies. The song garnered attention on social media. In 2020, he would make even greater traction with the release of his track SUCKA!.
Since then, Teezo’s rise in music has been soaring akin to his anthemic vocals. In the past few years, Teezo has collaborated with some of the largest figures in rap and hip-hop, including Tyler, The Creator, Travis Scott, Doja Cat, Drake, and Don Toliver.
Teezo released his debut studio album How Do You Sleep at Night? in 2023, with collaborations between the likes of Isaiah Rusk, Janelle Monáe, and Foursheé.
Outside of music, the Texas artist continues to push boundaries in fashion. As a part of his (literal) campaign “keep the mid of the streets”, Teezo’s originality is embodied head to toe.
With 15 pounds of nails weaved into his hair – a nod to his father’s professions as a handyman – Teezo regularly sports eye-popping-outfits-bordering-on uniforms ranging from dapper business suits to his staple football chest protector studded with spikes.
Teezo’s originality in fashion has caught the eye of renowned brands, in which Teezo has featured in campaigns for Marc Jacobs, HUGO, Marni, UCG x Telfar, and more.
Without a shadow of a doubt, Teezo Touchdown is an original force. Bending genre in both music and fashion, Teezo continues to be a cultural innovator and a perfect candidate for the SMN100 list!