Tyrese Helps Send Compton Teen to College in Atlanta

ATLANTA - A California teenager has started a new life in Atlanta, all thanks to a famous singer.

Lorenzo “Zo the Motivator” Murphy announced on Instagram that he has begun his journey at Morehouse College. He said this new chapter wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of Tyrese Gibson.

“It is because of him believing in me and investing in my future, that I am able to receive my education,” said Murphy, who is from Compton.

Murphy credits Tyrese for paying roughly $45,000 to $50,000 towards his tuition.

“I am beyond grateful and thankful to be apart of such great legacy,” said Murphy. “None of this would be possible without God, @tyrese, the support from my family and of course my relentless hard work.” 

Tyrese has since reacted on Instagram by taking a screen shot of Murphy's post.

"Wow he really did it - he's really at Morehouse unreal - I'm so proud!!!!! Shout to @ZoTheMotivator."

On Wednesday, the celebrity sent out another Instagram post displaying a recent text message exchange between the two:

"He's 21, his mind is SHARP, he's dedicated his life to Christ he's a virgin and has not allowed the pressures of society to take him under!!!!! Wow!!! I'm about to murder these classes......???? Wow wow wow - I'm fired up for you bro..... It GO season!!!!#MoreHouseCollege#StraightOuttaCompton lets GO!!!!!@ZoTheMotivator," said Tyrese. 

In the text exchange, Tyrese told Murphy college would be easy for him and the real challenge would be keeping "those girls off of you." The Morehouse student responded "I concur! I'm ready to murder these classes!"

Tyrese said on Instagram he was motivated to give back after recently hearing a speech from radio host Tom Joyner. Tyrese said he dream's with his eyes open and listened to Joyner talk about why he's raised and donated over $65 million and put close to 30,000 African American children into college. 

"I decided at that moment I needed to do something," Tyrese explained.

Last week Tyrese was in Atlanta for the 2015 Ford Neighborhood Awards. The awards were created by Steve Harvey as a way to honor everyday people who are doing positive work in their communities. Tyrese dropped by the live broadcast of the Steve Harvey Morning Show on Friday morning, and then took part in the Saturday awards show.

Good Day Atlanta's Paul Milliken caught up with Tyrese before the awards. Watch the interview here!