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In jazz circles Washington DC artist and producer KOKAYI is known as that “freestyle cat “whose improvisational skills span space and time. In hip hop circles he’s known a relentless producer and fearless emcee of the hip- hop fusion band Opus Akoben. He’s been called a preacher. An innovator. A wiseman. A humorist. A renaissance man. KOKAYI(Carl Caesar Walker) was born and raised in the Southwestquadrant of Washington DC. He cites the study of music and improvisation began at his father’s feet and beside a dusty piano. Throughout his childhood, KOKAYI soaked up on such greats as Dizzy, Miles as well as his brother’s Journey and Steely Dan records. It was in the 80's when hip hop invaded his life by way of his brother bringing home the Profile record jacket containing the most important single of his life; Run DMC's Sucka MCs.KOKAYI’s name is Swahili for "summon the people". It’s a title given to an artist who holds true to the spirit of hip hop. And how appropriate for an artist whose been known to move the everyone from a a group of songwriters to the Kennedy Center to a house of spiritual leaders in Saudi Arabia. ”Honestly I pour everything out on a song. It allows me to free myself from any inhibitions. If I can move people that say they don't like hip hop, than I know my job is done. KOKAYI"S debut solo album Mass Instructions drops November 1. It's the perfect marriage of Kokayi's distinct voice, relateable lyrics, seamless production and fearless delivery. KOKAYI also produced and wrote all 11 tracks on his debut album which he describes as eclectic, honest, and accessible to everyone.
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KOKAYI Lists the following Influences
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Bob Marley Run Dmc Pete Rock Nina Simone Krs 1 Prefuse 73 Organized Konfusion Pe Preemo Antonio Carlos Jobim Cachao Steve Coleman
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Acoustic
