Theodore “Noize Beatz” Lawrence has spent years helping artists create hit records, producing music for Snoop Dogg, Too Short, TLC, JayDon, and TeaMarrr. But the Atlanta-based producer says the accomplishment that has had the greatest impact on his life wasn’t made in a recording studio.
Over the past two years, Lawrence has lost more than 140 pounds through disciplined nutrition, regular exercise, and major lifestyle changes, a transformation he says has strengthened both his health and his work behind the scenes in the music industry.
Known for producing Snoop Dogg and Too Short’s “Pick A Side,” TLC’s “American Gold,” and JayDon’s “Ah! Ah!,” Lawrence said he reached a point where he realized his career success meant little if he neglected his own well-being.
“I had spent years investing in everyone else’s dreams,” Lawrence said. “Eventually I realized I needed to invest in myself with the same level of discipline. Losing the weight wasn’t about looking different – it was about feeling better, thinking clearer, and making sure I could enjoy the career I’ve worked so hard to build.”
Instead of pursuing rapid weight-loss methods, Lawrence focused on sustainable habits. He eliminated fast food and highly processed foods from his diet, prepared more meals at home, increased his water intake, and committed to regular strength training and cardiovascular exercise. The steady approach resulted in a loss of more than 140 pounds over two years.
Lawrence, originally from Athens, Georgia, developed an interest in music production at an early age. At 12, he began programming beats on a Zoom RT-123 drum machine before later mastering Pro Tools. After enrolling in college at age 16, he earned a bachelor’s degree from American InterContinental University and eventually relocated to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music.
His career gained momentum after meeting TLC member T-Boz during the ASCAP Awards. Lawrence later produced the group’s song “American Gold,” contributing to an album that topped both the U.S. Independent Albums and U.K. R&B Albums charts. He also worked with Issa Rae’s Raedio label, producing TeaMarrr’s “Kinda Love,” before returning to Georgia to collaborate with producer Jazze Pha while continuing to work with established artists and emerging talent.
Lawrence said the physical transformation has translated directly into his professional life.
“The studio can be demanding. Some sessions last all day and run well into the night,” he said. “Today I have more energy, more patience, and more creativity than I did before. Taking care of my health has made me a better producer because I can give artists my full attention from the first song to the last.”
As conversations surrounding physical and mental wellness continue to grow within the entertainment industry, Lawrence hopes his experience encourages others working in creative fields to prioritize their own health.
“People often wait until there’s a crisis before making a change,” Lawrence said. “My advice is to start now. You don’t have to change everything overnight. Small decisions, repeated consistently, can completely change your future.”
Lawrence plans to continue producing music while expanding into artist development, launching his own record label, and mentoring emerging producers and songwriters. He said his personal transformation has reinforced his belief that long-term success depends on maintaining both creative passion and physical health.
“I’ve accomplished a lot in music,” Lawrence said. “But this journey reminded me that your greatest investment is yourself. When you become healthier, everything else has a chance to grow with you.”
