“‘Durags N Bonnets’ is a musical checkpoint of me finding a form while still remaining shapeless like water.” – Austin Dean Ashford
Austin Dean Ashford is the type of person who can rule the world. Why is that? Because he doesn’t let any “obstacles [thrown his] way” get in the way of his dreams. Going from a high school dropout to an artist, to now and a student in his third year of college to get a PhD in student interdisciplinary, the artist considers music to be “medicine and a healing remedy to help [him] operate in an unpredictable world.” The singer’s passion for music stems from its ability to heal and help him “operate in an unpredictable world.”
Austin describes his upcoming sophomore album, Durags N Bonnets as an educational experience for him.
“This album has a range of emotions with a little bit more maturity all aimed at the idea of radical rest. I think we are heavy in grind culture even during a pandemic,” he told Remixd Mag. “When we should lean into rest because rest allows healing. On this project there is still ukulele, beatboxing, witty word play, and 808. But you can hear my growth as a storyteller in how I am approaching topic.”
As a 3rd year PhD student in interdisciplinary fine arts, completing this album which is part of a larger project and educational argument has forced me to question the status quo and pioneer a path that can hopefully open space for other.”
Austin compares his newest project to protecting your crown; he poetically describes the process as taking care of your hair – there are steps to follow. “The project is about growth while still manifesting.”
For those that are a fan of the “sophisti-ratchet” trilogy, the series ends next year, with Austin’s third album. The artist also shared some exciting news: he’s going on another international tour later in the year!
Durags N Bonnets will drop on Austin’s birthday, March 22nd.
You can keep up with all things Austin via the following links:
Twitter | IG
In the meantime, check out more of Austin Dean Ashford’s music below.
