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Born to Iranian immigrants in Northern California’s diverse East Bay, Ashkon is Grad School Music’s flagship artist. A rapper, singer songwriter and actor, his talent and appeal extend beyond those of a typical hip-hop artist. At times Ashkon’s music evokes genres ranging from R&B to Neo-Soul to Pop, and even Classic Rock.
That being said, Ashkon remains a bust your head open, Bay Area rap cat at heart.
In 2006 Ashkon jumped onto the Bay Area hip-hop scene with his epic debut record The Final Breakthrough. Assembled almost entirely by the Bay Area production team Pailboy, the album is as eclectic musically as it is lyrically. The album’s first single, “Hey Keezy,” features Ashkon’s former students, the children of Howard Elementary School (Oakland, CA). The album also includes his first regional hit, the “510 (remix),” a collaboration with Oakland heavyweights Mistah FAB and Boots Riley (of The Coup).
Ashkon relocated to Los Angeles in January of 2007. In a matter of months he compiled the Speaks Louder Than Words mixtape, which was hosted by one of LA's most respected DJs, DJ Strong. Speaks Louder Than Words showcases Ashkon’s versatility as well as his undeniable MC skills. While influences like Tupac, The Roots, and Eminem are often apparent, Ashkon has a style and a sound unique to himself. The tracklist of SLTW runs the gamut from tongue–in-cheek R&B, to certified Bay Area slappers, to passionate hardcore hip-hop bangers. Guests include Mistah FAB, Boots Riley, Richie Cunning, Mr. Tower, Dirty Birdy, Doctor Stank, Bumbalo, Big Fats and Proe.
In 2008 Ashkon generated a great deal of buzz with his hilarious, yet helplessly infectious track, "Hot Tubbin’ (On the Late Night)." The video for the song has become a viral sensation on YouTube, receiving more than 500,000 plays to date, thrusting Ashkon onto the cusp of the mainstream music world.
Ashkon kept busy throughout the year, performing his campy crowd pleaser along with his already dynamic stage show at a number of notable California Venues (Ruby Sky, The Independent, The Roxy, The Viper Room, and The Key Club, to name a few). Known for his honest, eccentric stage presence, Ashkon uses a blend of strait forward hip-hop lyricism, with soulful singing, and live musicianship, giving him widespread cross genre appeal.
Set to release an album in Spring 09, Ashkon just completed a new mixtape called The Showcase, and a hot new video for his tongue in cheek follow up to Hot Tubbin’ entitled, “Like a Hula Hoop.” Both songs are now available for purchase on Itunes.
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