Ashaki

If you’ve ever read an article regarding an artist you thought to be extremely talented, you would more then likely hear them say they’ve been working on their craft since childhood. Some more privileged than others, but normally the outcome is a seasoned professional.

Ashaki is definitely a product of the “I’ve been doing this all of my life” class of artists. Born and raised on Chicago’s North Side, this student of the School of Performing Arts began studying dance at the tender age of six. As a student of the performing arts she was exposed to music and drama but dance consumed most of the years to come. “Shaki,” as friends call her, began performing throughout the Windy City and landed a coveted spot tap dancing on the children’s television show, “Kidding Around.” Later, as a teen, she appeared on the Jerry Lewis Telethon and took home the 1st place prize in the NAACP Act-So Competition. It wasn’t long before Ashaki found herself dancing in music videos and touring with artist such as R. Kelly, Sparkle, Ten City and Tony Thompson (formerly of Hi-Five). She recently choreographed the“Jesus Walks” video for Grammy Award winning artist, Kanye West. Impressed with her outstanding talent and work ethic, West called on her again to contribute background vocals to his platinum album “The College Dropout.”Well-connected in the music industry, Ashaki has also worked as choreographer and hype girl for Epic recording artist Strings’ (now called Tatezee ofCash Money/Universal) national tour.

With an album’s worth of material recorded and years of choreography/dance experience, Shaki is ready to share her gifts with the world. Reminiscent of a 2010 Denise Williams, Ashaki brings a smile back to R&B. Refreshing melodies, heart-stirringlyrics and confident vocals about love, life and good times make her music irresistible and necessary in this overly-contrived era of Black music. I’m bringing back music that addresses topics that go beyond sexual experiences. It’s time to talk about love, enjoying life, and all of the other wonderful things that put a smile on our faces,” said Ashaki. “My music has been known to strike a chord with listeners and remind them of a time when life was less complicated. Consider it an escape!”
Comparisons to the legendary Ms. Jackson are frequent and of course, welcomed, but you’ll realize upon first listen that Ashaki is one of a kind and truly ONE TO WATCH!