LA's Amad-Jamal (AJ) in 1992, recorded his first demo tape with the Soul Survivors (DJ Khalil and RaSudan Daaood). "A Mad Jam 4 All", one of the songs on this release, became a favorite in the LA hip-hop scene. After being down with the Microphone Mafia for two years, RaSudan Daaood renamed the Microphone Mafia to The S.O.L.A.R. Panel (Sons of Light Allahs Reflection). With this new name, it seemed the crew had found its direction and so had AJ. He proceeded to rock local shows with the likes of The Pharcyde, Freestyle Fellowship, Kombo MC, 13, (then) Anonymous and long-time friend, Defari Heru. Amad-Jamal then moved to New York, where he met Supernatural and performed with him at "The Lyricist Lounge," Howard University's homecoming in Washington D.C. This performance rewarded AJ with an invite to appear on the Stretch and Bobbito mix show in New York City. During the radio show, Jamalski convinced AJ and Defari to perform with him in New York, before AJ returned home to Los Angeles. From paying dues on the local scene, Amad-Jamal was invited to appear on Immortal Records' "Next Chapter" Compilation alongside his younger brother Kombo MC and cousin Divine Universal (Suns of the VI). Their track "Vocal Instrument" received widespread praise from LA's hip-hop community.

The buzz generated by "Vocal Instrument" provided AJ with the impetus to co-create Village Entertainment; a label committed to exposing underrepresented MCs in Los Angeles. When asked about Village Entertainment, AJ responds, "I wanted to work with other people who shared the same independent vision as I did, because the major labels werenąt giving any of us love". Toward the end of '95, Village Entertainment fell short of expectations and AJ left the company to pursue personal endeavors. At this time, AJ was still in touch with another Next Chapter artist, Evidence of Dilated Peoples. Evidence encouraged AJ to stick with it and offered to work with him, the result of which became "Start 2 Finish". This track was brought to the attention of ABB Records' Beni B and his initial reaction upon hearing it was that of interest and enthusiasm. "With "Start 2 Finish", I could hear AJ's potential," Beni states, "The song adhered to ABB's philosophy of keeping it simple and basic, while at the same time making a statement." Beni continues, "It was just a matter of AJ getting the opportunity to express himself musically and creatively because he already had the personality." The result of this opportunity is AJ's debut maxi-single, titled "The Renaissance." Production contributions for "The Renaissance" include Venice, CA's Evidence (Start 2 Finish), Bravo (Rhetoric) and Joey Chavez (The Renaissance)".

"Start 2 Finish" marks AJ's declaration that despite setbacks and challenges; determination eventually brings about success. "If you really believe in your heart that you want to accomplish something, then you can, despite the obstacles confronting you," replies AJ. "Music is something I've always wanted to do and I'm getting the opportunity do what I love." Amad-Jamal continues, "I've recorded tracks, done shows, started a label, took time off, recorded tracks and done shows again. I feel as though I have gone through a transformation of some sort. This is the message that I put forth on my anthem, "The Renaissance". "It is my rebirth into the music scene and my voice in the hip-hop world will not be subdued any longer." Hopefully after listening to AJ's release, you too will feel this rejuvenation!

For booking info, contact ABB Records at 510.986.9412