Taree Johnson was born June 24, 1979 in New Jersey. He is the only child, raised by his loving mother and grandmother. Talented in many things, he took up writing. He started with spoken word, which eventually lead to song writing. He studied beats, and taught himself how to break his words down, bar for bar. Taree's musical influences are vast. He is inspired by Big Pun, Prodigy of Mobb Deep, Snoop Dogg and many West Coast Artist. As well as many local artist, like DJ Doughboy, Naughty By Nature, and Redman. He credits his biggest influence to The Notorious B.I.G. Taree has recorded and perfected hundreds of songs. His earlier music was recorded under the alias O.B.E.A.S.T. (Overall Best Ever at Spittin This) , which was later shortened to O2Da. Growing into a more mature artist, he has chosen to continue his love for music and his artistic journey as SHINER HYMES (a play on words for Shine Rhymes). Taree wishes to illuminate the rap game, with his bars that pack punchlines and great storylines. "Your path is illuminated by the light, yet darkness lets the stars shine bright" - JLW Brooks