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 and Neo-Soul to Pop and even Classic Rock.
That being said, Ashkon remains a bust your head open, Bay Area rap cat at heart.

2006 proved to be the busiest year of Ashkon’s budding career culminating in the release of his epic debut album, The Final Breakthrough. Asssembled 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 features Ashkon’s first regional hit, the “510 (remix),” a collaboration with Mistah FAB and Boots Riley (of The Coup).

Ashkon relocated to Los Angeles in January of 2007. In just five months Ashkon has managed to link with LA’s most respected DJs, The Cali Untouchables, and release Speaks Louder Than Words hosted by the Cali Untouchable DJ himself, DJ Strong. Speaks Louder Than Words showcases Ashkon’s versatility as well as his absolutely 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.

Perhaps the biggest buzz currently surrounding Ashkon is being generated by his hilarious, yet helplessly infectious track, Hot Tubbin’ (On the Late Night). A video for the song is currently the #1 featured track on Youtube.com, generating over 100,000 plays in its first 24 hours on Youtube’s front page.