#FMSpotlight: Austin Dean Ashford – ‘Sophisti-Ratchet’ (Listen)

Listen: Austin Dean Ashford – Sophisti-Ratchet

Enriching the music scene with a myriad of sound and powerfully optimistic bars, Austin Dean Ashford is “the game’s medicine/healing amnesia” like he mentions in his song, “King Of The Renaissance.” Amongst every Austin Dean Ashford record lies a new outlook on life. Between the rhymes, the California-based musician spreads affirmations that allow listeners to tap into their higher selves. Moreover, his confident delivery pushes them to love the skin they’re in. Still, the most notable factor of his music is the energy it gives off. After every song, expect to feel re-charged and ready to accomplish anything!

“I think that my frequency is joy, motivation, and perseverance,” he adds. “I make chant music to help people be encouraged during their day.”

To box his entire sound is merely impossible. His disparate musical style takes inspiration from all genres. In Austin Dean Ashford’s words, it’s (I)sland T(rap). 

About Austin Dean Ashford

Austin Dean Ashford goes by his real name. His music journey dates back to his younger years. Not only did the artist participate in theatre, but he was making one-person musical shows around that time as well. He says that his success comes from his communities support. They cheer him on for both his school and musical accolades. Art was the ultimate fuel to his creative fire. It becomes his savior during trying times. People-wise, he’s moved by Outkast, Anderson. Paak, Tobi, Lauryn Hill, Bob Marley, Nina Simone, Dave Chapelle, Donald Glover, Tyler Perry, E 40, Duke Ellington, James Brown, Muhammad Ali, and Michael Jackson. 

The “Sophisti-Ratchet” creator wants his sound to impact and move individuals. He’d also like to heal his people and community. In terms of his career, Austin Dean Ashford would like to have placement on screen, tour internationally, and headline festivals. 

His project, Sophisti-Ratchet, blends afrobeat, flamenco, pop, jazz, hip-hop, New Orleans bounce, and so much more. Lyrically, Austin Dean Ashford puts all haters to rest and defeats them with his gift of gab. The themes at hand focus on love (whether it be with oneself or another), accomplishing goals, and pumping yourself up. Subsequently, we find the musician sure of himself and his destiny. No matter the obstacle, Austin Dean Ashford overcomes it. Three tracks that you should check out are “SPIRIT,” “U ARE,” and “Phiya Squad,” a track that pays homage to his best buds. The 7-track effort is guaranteed to get you out of your seat. Moreso, you’ll be dancing with those around you. 

In the future, expect Austin Dean Ashford to drop the audio drama that goes Sophisti-Ratchet. He’s also creating his second album, which will potentially drop before 2021 ends. Additionally, congrats are in order because he will be graduating with his Ph.D. next year in May 2022 (Let’s hope we get an e-vite via Zoom!) 

Until then, stay tuned for what he’s got in store. You know we’ll keep you posted. 

Listen to Sophisti-Ratchet by Austin Dean Ashford below: 

Written By: Natalee Gilbert

Social Media: Twitter: @natalee_federal | Instagram: @natalee_federal

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