B.A.S.K.O. is the best kept secret in hip hop. Born and raised in Rochester (the ROC), New York, the So Fly Records label Founder/President has been on the grind as long as anyone in the game. To know this is to appreciate why, when armed with an ink pen or a microphone he's most at peace, and why his passion is so clearly conveyed and transferable.
In his own words: How I Grew Up 01:20
In his own words: RIT Movie Soundtrack 00:15
Years of dedication and perseverance have built toward this moment, and the artist who deftly crosses styles and genres has waited with grave patience: "I gave you haters ten years, and what you worth in your lives don’t amount to your chain but I’m a swallow my pride." B.A.S.K.O.’s musical variety is matched only by the complexity of his character.
In his own words: Despite All Odds 02:00
In his own words: Selling Casettes 00:40
He’s the hustler who tells it straight. The pimp whose bitches are his pens. The player who admits to getting burned. And although his art is for sale, B.A.S.K.O. is more concerned with the obligations of the artist – to entertain, to inspire, and to connect.
Even if you're not familiar with his name, if you watch movies or television, you've likely heard B.A.S.K.O.'s music. The southern-style G-Funk banger “Big Boi” is currently featured in the film Cop Out, as well as its soundtrack.
Big Boi 00:30
Other notable placements in film include last year’s summer blockbuster Transformers; I think I Love My Wife; and American Pie: The Naked Mile. "This Is Not A Game" - also slated on the upcoming album - was the LA Kings’ anthem. B.A.S.K.O.’s music has been on MTV’s The Hills plus a host of other cable and network programs including Pop Fiction, The OC, Numbers, Cane, Veronica Mars, ESPN’s And 1 Global Invasion, as well as commercials for Mercedes Benz and Ecko Unltd. You can also find his music on the video game Don King Presents: Prizefighter.
This Is Not A Game 00:30
B.A.S.K.O.’s dream to lift his troubled city is manifested in a song he has written for the Rochester Literacy Movement. Dedicated to the youth, the epic and ultimately hopeful track, titled, “It’s All Part of the Struggle,” provides a multi-perspective narrative on life on the streets, and the consequences of the choices we make.
It’s All Part of the Struggle 00:30
B.A.S.K.O.'s musical roots run deep, having collaborated with a cross-section of some of the industry’s most accomplished artists, including Ginuwine, DJ Green Lantern, Jodeci, and the legendary rhythm section of Steve Gadd and Tony Levin. ......
I Can Create 01:15
You can also find B.A.S.K.O. at myspace.com/baskomusic and soundtrack.mtv.com/basko......Peace.
