“It’s been a long road. It ain’t always been about music. I’ma take ya’ll on a ride with me,”

said T.I. at the opening of his episode of “VH1 Storytellers.” The incarcerated rapper told his story through the music on last night’s show, which was taped prior to his return to prison.

Between performing songs from his 2001 debut album to his latest No Mercy, Tip shared candid stories about his redemption from the life of a drug dealer to the rap superstar he is today. He also took questions from fans in the audience at New York City’s Hammerstein Ballroom.

Among the highlights were never-before-performed-live songs “Still Ain’t Forgave Myself” and the highly personal “I Still Luv You,” along with his hits “Rubber Band Man,” “Bring ‘Em Out,” and “Live Your Life.”