We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashford Kamau and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashford, what are you inspired by?
Like all artists, I know my biggest inspiration comes from my environment and the people with whom I share my time. In addition to having a profound passion for Hip Hop and its culture, what drives me most is the capability to support my family and reward them tenfold for all the times we needed and wished for salvation. But it’s not just family. Friends, acquaintances, and even strangers have shared their support and faith in me, which I hold close to my heart for strength. Each new encounter, good or bad, propels me closer to my dream. Because like Nipsey said, “The marathon continues, “and with God as my witness and by my side, I will not fail!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Since I was a child, Hop Hop has weaved itself into the depths of my soul, seeding a deep love that has blossomed over time. Being in church growing up originated my interest in music, so as time pass has influenced my production style to this day, along with the influence and guidance of artists and producers I grew up with( because I practice both), such as Kanye, The Alchemist, Eminem, Dr. Dr, and Lupe Fiasco. Like myself, my art is complex and unafraid to be unconditional and eccentric. I pride myself on how I approach projects with a vision for the future while demonstrating humility for the past. This is why I believe quality, impactful lyrics are what separates me from most artists nowadays because I am unique and sway away from the current Rap climate. And it shows; not only in my writing but also in my beat production. I am heavily influenced by producers such as Kanye West, Timberland, Metro Boomin, and the great Alchemist.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m huge on vibes, so of course, I love anything art in the city; my favorite spot is the Museum of Fine Art. But if you like more street art, then the graffiti park downtown near Minute Maid is a pop culture favorite. From the murals to the nearby restaurants and venus, you just can’t go wrong visiting downtown, but before that, I might hit up “Black Walnut” in Rice Village to get a little buzz from their hard-hitting drinks, especially if it’s on a weekday happy hour. And if you a fan of classic games, old and new, you gotta hit up “Cidercade.” Two of those drinks, and you are feeling good. Along with these, the Japanese Gardens is a frequent chill spot for me. I might sit and just write poetry or some raps as the day passes. Some people might see as boring, but most of the time, I’m just outside vibing, even though Houston weather is as stable as the sea, or just at home working on music and school. Nevertheless, I do have a few bars and clubs I like to go to, such as “The Secret Group,” “Little Woodrow’s,” and “White Oak Music Hall” when I really feel like turning up.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Growing up, it was myself, my oldest brother, and my sister, with my single-parent mother playing both mother and father. Life could have been more challenging, but she always sacrificed herself to ensure we all had the opportunity to succeed. From working multiple jobs simultaneously to ensuring I had a roof over our heads, my mother strived to give us all she could. Even when times were hard, like when we lost our house or when she had no job, my mom monopolized moments in between the difficult times, so they weren’t as bad. Along with her own personal and medical issues, I admire her efforts as a mother and a human being. Although our relationship solidity has fluctuated recently, I’m still her bodacious, outward-thinking, goofy little boy. And without her, I wouldn’t have my work ethic, faith, and love for music, for which I am forever thankful.

Website: https://unitedmasters.com/a/akkishere

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.k.k4real/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashfordkamau/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AKK4Real

Other: https://linktr.ee/A.K.K

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