Austin Dean Ashford (@TheAustinDeanAshford), the highly talented and multifaceted artist, is set to captivate audiences with his latest upcoming project, ‘Boujetto.’ This eagerly awaited third studio album, accompanied by an immersive ‘Game Night Tour 2023,’ promises to take listeners on a transformative journey through music, storytelling, and interactive experiences.
Born and raised in the vibrant San Francisco/Oakland Bay Area in Northern California, Austin Dean Ashford draws inspiration from his diverse experiences and musical influences to create a sound that is uniquely his own. His music can be described as a poetic bounce, blending spoken word with captivating musicality. With elements of acoustic and island trap, Austin’s sound combines beatboxing, live ukulele strums, and arpeggios, creating a distinct sonic experience that resonates with fans of Childish Gambino, Chance the Rapper, and Anderson Paak.
As an artist, Austin Dean Ashford is deeply passionate about the healing power of music. It serves as his personal form of medicine, providing rejuvenation and upliftment. “Music becomes a remedy,” Austin tells Remixd Magazine, “leaving me feeling rejuvenated and uplifted. I believe everyone deserves to have the right tunes or vibe to navigate their day with positivity and purpose.”
‘Boujetto’ serves as the final installment of Austin’s Sophisiti-Ratchet series, exploring the experiences of Black individuals who exist between the realms of corporate and the hood. It challenges the societal notion that Black people must fit into strict categories, highlighting the multifaceted nature of their lifestyles. Inspired by his book, ‘Sophisti-Ratchet,’ which intertwines narratives from his previous albums, Austin weaves a cohesive storyline that invites listeners to immerse themselves in a world where music, storytelling, and interactive experiences converge.
The album ‘Boujetto’ is set to release on Juneteenth, June 19, 2023, a significant date that marks the perfect backdrop for this extraordinary project. Additionally, the accompanying ‘Game Night Tour 2023’ promises an immersive experience for attendees. This national tour, spanning 20 cities, will feature spades tournaments, engaging improv theatre games, and performances from talented acts across the country. The tour will culminate with an Artist Residency at the prestigious Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., offering a grand finale to this unforgettable journey.
Reflecting on his artistic evolution, Austin Dean Ashford shares, “This project speaks to individuals like myself—those who have overcome adversity and have found their voice in music while simultaneously tackling academic pursuits and personal struggles.” ‘Boujetto’ is more than just an album; it is a testament to the power of independent artistry and an inspiration to black art students and independent artists alike.
Following the conclusion of the ‘Game Night Tour 2023,’ Austin Dean Ashford has a thrilling lineup of projects ahead. He will dive into Theatre Residencies for his new One Person Plays, exploring the intersections of music, storytelling, and live performance. He will also continue his academic pursuits as he prepares for his Comprehensive Exams for his PhD in Interdisciplinary Fine Arts at Texas Tech University. Furthermore, fans can anticipate another highly anticipated album set to release in 2024, promising fresh perspectives, captivating narratives, and infectious melodies.
Through the ‘Boujetto’ project, Austin Dean Ashford aims to inspire and encourage fans to pursue their own goals and dreams. He invites listeners to delve deep into the intricacies of his artistry, recognizing the depth and growth that this project represents.
“The core message I hope fans take away from my music and the ‘Boujetto’ project is the power of experience,” Austin Dean Ashford says. “I want them to embark on a journey that transcends the boundaries of traditional albums and tours. It’s not just about the current project; it’s about immersing themselves in the entire universe we’ve meticulously built over the past three years.”
Audiences can pre-save the project: here.
