Nova Hndrxx: From Northern Virginia Roots to NBA 2K26 — The Rise of a Versatile Hip-Hop Visionary
Nova Hndrxx, born Justin Smith and also known by his 5%er name Tauheat Yz Allah, is a rising hip-hop artist from Northern Virginia whose journey is as compelling as his sound. Hailing from Alexandria, VA and currently based in Dulles, Virginia, Nova Hndrxx represents resilience, versatility, and evolution in today’s hip-hop landscape.
With a sound rooted in lyrical depth, melodic instincts, and fearless adaptability, Nova Hndrxx is steadily carving out his own lane—one built on experience, vision, and relentless growth
Early Life & Background
Born on December 23, 1990, Nova Hndrxx grew up in Northern Virginia, where his earliest exposure to music came through church and school. Like many young creatives, he balanced multiple interests early on, excelling in sports while slowly developing a passion for self-expression through music.
However, life took a dramatic turn during his college years. A wrong decision led to a home-invasion case, resulting in over seven years of incarceration. Rather than allowing that chapter to define him, Nova used it as a period of transformation. While incarcerated, he committed himself fully to music—writing, performing whenever possible, and sharpening his craft.
When he returned home in 2018, he came back with clarity, purpose, and a renewed hunger to succeed as Nova Hndrxx.
How Nova Hndrxx Started Making Music
Nova Hndrxx wrote his first rhymes in the third grade for a school project, but it wasn’t until around age 15 that he truly began taking rap seriously. Inspired initially by Lupe Fiasco, he developed a love for lyricism, storytelling, and individuality.
Over time, his inspirations expanded, and today his biggest musical influence is Future—particularly the Atlanta icon’s ability to blend emotion, melody, and raw honesty. Nova also draws creative fuel from all music genres and anime, which influences both his sound and visual identity.
Nova Hndrxx’s Music Style & Sound
In his own words, versatility is his weapon of choice.
Nova Hndrxx describes himself as a “half-baked harmonizing lyricist” at his core—someone who can adapt to any style while still maintaining a distinct identity. Whether it’s melodic trap, introspective bars, or high-energy records, Nova can step into different sonic spaces and make them his own.
This adaptability is quickly becoming one of his strongest trademarks in a crowded hip-hop scene.
Career Highlights & Major Releases
Nova Hndrxx’s career momentum has been steadily building, with major milestones already under his belt.
🎮 NBA 2K26 Soundtrack Placement (2025)
One of his biggest accomplishments to date is landing a placement on the NBA 2K26 soundtrack with the track “IMA BOSS”, introducing his music to a massive global gaming audience.
🔥 “HOW YOU WANT IT” ft. Doe Boy (2025)
Released on Black Friday 2025, this high-profile single features Doe Boy, marking a major collaboration and signaling Nova’s arrival on a larger stage.
Upcoming Projects
• “Luck’s Fair” — EP (Pre-Album Release, 2026)
• “Dirty Hearts” — Debut Album (Early 2026)
With Dirty Hearts, Nova Hndrxx is preparing to fully tell his story—blending personal history, hard-earned wisdom, and emotional honesty into his most complete body of work yet.
Purpose, Message & What Sets Him Apart
Nova Hndrxx’s music carries a clear message:
“Life can only beat you if you let it.”
What sets him apart isn’t just his sound—it’s his story, discipline, and creative ecosystem. Since his return home, he’s built more than just music. Through God of Fortune and Shichi Mob, Nova is expanding his brand into a larger vision focused on legacy, ownership, and feeding the people who matter most to him.
He’s not chasing trends—he’s building something lasting.
Social Media & Streaming Links
📲 Follow Nova Hndrxx
• Instagram: @nova.hndrxx
• TikTok: @nova.hndrxx
• X (Twitter): @nova.hndrxx
🎧 Stream Nova Hndrxx
• Official streaming & music links:
👉 https://unitedmasters.com/a/nova-hndrxx
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